At 75, Oristano coach Nino Cuccu has decided to end an extraordinary career. A historic figure in Sardinian amateur football, he leaves an indelible mark. His was not just a series of championships and coaching roles, but a path studded with accolades and moments of prestige. In 2003, he received the USSI Award for three championships won in two years; in 2017, the CONI awarded him the "A Life in Sport" award; in 2021, the AIAC recognized him for his contribution to football research and development. In 2010, Luigi Roselli dedicated the book "1000 Panchine e Più" to him, while Cuccu himself successfully combined sport and music with the opera-song "Finirà," transformed into a charity event for Bitti after the flood.

Why did you decide to leave?

There's no specific reason. My coaching license expires on December 31st, and I had already decided not to renew it. It was a difficult decision, after 63 years of sporting activity, which began at age 12. Now I feel the need to dedicate more time to my family, friends, and especially my wonderful granddaughters Mariasole and Liliana.

What conclusions do you feel you can draw?

I don't like to judge my career; I think that's up to others. I can say that when I started in 1978, at 28, in the Tirso Don Bosco youth sector, I never thought I'd get to this point: 40 championships played in all amateur categories up to Serie D, over 1,200 coaching roles and 16 different clubs. For me, it was a great dream come true.

He wasn't just a football coach...

I started kicking a ball around the streets of "Su Brugu" at the age of 12, playing for the Don Bosco parish team, then for Virtus and San Giorgio. Later, Professor Adriano Loddo convinced me to switch to track and field. In 1967, I won the Sardinian student title in the long jump, then the FIDAL Sardinian title in the long jump and triple jump, and the interregional title in Rome, participating in the Italian championship in Molfetta. After a break, I returned to amateur football, playing in the First Category with "Città di Oristano" and Paulese, achieving two promotions. I ended my playing career due to a serious injury.

Of the teams you coached, which ones have remained in your heart, and who among the presidents and players?

I've always had excellent relationships everywhere. Three clubs have marked unforgettable moments: Tharros, Taloro, and San Marco Cabras. I've had special bonds with the presidents: Guido Annis launched my coaching career; Francesco Pinna wanted me at Tharros; Mario Diana, with whom I won the most (three championships and a runner-up finish in Italy); and Angelo Buttu, who gave me the opportunity to experience memorable seasons with Taloro Gavoi. As for the players, there are so many: I embrace them all and thank them because without them this dream would not have come true.

In your career you also had experiences as a federal technician: which do you remember most fondly?

Coaching your home team is always a source of pride and responsibility. In 1998, I had a magical moment: we reached the final of the Regions Tournament against Veneto, at the Renato Curi Stadium in Perugia. We played with 11 men for 45 minutes (9 against 11) and lost only on the tenth penalty. We finished runners-up, the best result ever for our Juniors. It's a memory I cherish.

You were a student of great coaches: Crovi, Mirtillo, and Grillone. What did they leave you with?

Three great football experts. Crovi instilled in me authority and professionalism; Mirtillo, meticulousness in his work; Grillone, psychology and superstition; he invented everything to motivate the team. If I had to name one: Sergio Crovi.

Do you have any regrets?

"Yes, having to turn down calls from four historic and renowned regional football clubs—Thiesi and Alghero in Serie D, Nuorese and Macomer in Eccellenza—for work and health reasons."

You've received eight promotions: which ones are closest to your heart?

Winning is never easy. The most exciting ones are Tharros's double promotion, from the Prima Categoria to the Eccellenza in two years (2001-2003); winning the Promozione championship in 2000 with Taloro; and winning the Eccellenza in 2014 with Ghilarza, after a legendary comeback that avoided relegation the previous year.

What would you like to be remembered for?

«I've always taught my players that at the end of your career, it's better to be remembered for the man you were, and not just for the results you achieved.»

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