“Le Maine Libre”: You launched a new operation with the Christmas match this Friday against Valenciennes. Can you explain the Le Mans FC approach to us?
Thierry Gomez : “We open the Marie-Marvingt stadium at 5 p.m., i.e. 3:30 hours before kick-off. During this time, spectators will be able to enjoy the animation village with precision shooting, human table football, a city stadium, toboggan runs, climbing walls, makeup stands… We encourage people to come from the opening to commune together. The theme is “a Christmas for everyone”. We therefore invited all the department's licensees, hospital staff and different associations in the area… The club is also happy to offer this moment to young people in difficulty. It's a tradition to celebrate this big celebration, through sharing. For now (this Wednesday evening), we have exceeded 15,000 supporters, we hope to exceed the 16,000 mark.”
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A guest of honor will be present…
“On the occasion of the release of his book which traces his career, “Foot sentimental”, Dominique Rocheteau (emblematic player of AS Saint-Étienne in the 70s, then of Paris Saint-Germain in the following decade, editor's note .) will be signing on the stadium square between 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. The first ten arrivals will be offered the book. Afterwards, it will be €15 instead of €20. It could be a nice gift for the holidays. He will then kick off the match. A fireworks display will close the evening after the match. »
For the celebration to be complete, Le Mans FC must win on the pitch or risk disappointing. Is there additional pressure?
“No, no more than usual. I will repeat myself but in the management of Le Mans FC, we always try to put in place a strategy which is independent of the result. It's not easy because every weekend, our scores are visible to everyone. But, for example, for Friday evening, we cannot decide on the post-match fireworks solely based on the result. It’s a special moment! There will be thousands of children, some will not experience Christmas, others will have few presents so our goal is to give them an exceptional evening. Afterwards, of course if victory is achieved, the party will be even more beautiful. »
A success would still allow this gloomy year in terms of performance to end on a tasty note.
“Our role is not always to see the bottle half empty. I know that in France, we are the type to criticize, but we are actors. Today, we want to have a big match against Valenciennes, then pass the 32e final of the Coupe de France (against Petit Poucet of the Marmande competition which plays in R2). That would give us good prospects for 2025. Now, we must accept the ups and downs of our season, but not be too pessimistic when we are in difficulty and, above all, remain humble when the period is more positive. »
Practical. This Friday at 8:30 p.m.: Le Mans FC – Valenciennes. Doors to the Marie-Marvingt stadium open at 5 p.m. for more than 3 hours of entertainment before kick-off.
