Gabriele Mariani will be the new setter for New Mater Volley Castellana Grotte for the upcoming Credem Banca men’s national A3 series volleyball championship. With Cappadona retiring after four years in the youth, B series, and A3 series, the team coached by Giuseppe Barbone will once again be in blue.
Having developed his volleyball career with Vero Volley Monza (winning a Junior League title in 2023), having spent time with Palmi in A2 series, and establishing himself in A3 series with Sabaudia last year, Mariani is currently playing for the U22 national team ahead of the European Championships, which will be held in Albufeira, Portugal, from June 29th to July 4th.
Born in 2005 (on May 16th in Pisa), Mariani made 21 appearances last season between the league, Italian Cup, and playoffs, averaging 63 points (2.9 points per game), 22 aces, and 17 blocks.
“First of all, I’d like to thank Cappadona for the dedication and commitment he has invested throughout his time with the yellow-blue team. We bid him farewell and wish him all the best for his future career,” commented New Mater Volley’s sporting director, Bruno De Mori. “We welcome Gabriele Mariani to the roster, confident that he will excel with his talent, enthusiasm, and experience, especially considering his extensive experience in the Azzurri youth teams. Following Orlando Boscardini’s confirmation, Mariani’s arrival is a further sign of New Mater’s desire to build a young, promising team, but with proven talent.”
“I’m very happy to have landed in Castellana Grotte. This is a great opportunity for me, and I can’t wait to begin this new adventure,” Mariani commented. “I’m eager to get involved, work hard, and achieve great things, both personally and with the team. I’m convinced that, with the right commitment and the right mindset, we can have a great run and achieve important goals. I know how passionate and enthusiastic the Castellana fans are: this is a huge motivation, and I’m sure their support will give us an extra boost throughout the season. I’m coming here with great enthusiasm, a strong desire to grow and give everything for this jersey. I’m sure it will go well, and I can’t wait to get started.”
