«A link between generations»
In October of 2011 our club started a kind tradition. Lokomotiv players and coaches planted maple saplings behind the North Stand of the stadium. Now four years on, more trees have appeared in the alley.
The event was attended by coaches, footballers and Lokomotiv academy pupils. The club’s president Olga Smorodskaya delivered an opening speech:
“Planting trees is a very good custom. People plant them in commemoration of and for the welfare of something. The planted tree symbolizes a link between generations. The tradition started in 2011 has taken hold and will be carried on today. The honour of planting trees this time is extended to the coaches Sarkis Oganesyan and Nikolai Ulyanov and to the footballers Marinato Guilherme, Verdan Corluka, Alexander Samedov, Dmitriy Tarasov and Jan Durica – all those who have won medals and trophies with Lokomotiv,” said Olga Smorodskaya.
Igor Cherevchenko and Oleg Pashinin planted saplings four years ago. Their trees have grown and matured. “On that day in 2011 it was raining, and the maples have been doing well. I hope, it will be the same now. I am glad the tradition continues. There is plenty of room in the alley – enough for more maples”, – said the head coach.
Marinato Guilherme hasn’t yet planted anything at Cherkizovo, but the Brazilian is somewhat of an experienced gardener.
- It is my second experience. I planted my first tree at the age of five. Today I have got a chance to relive my childhood. I saw photos from the opening of the maple alley in 2011. It is Lokomotiv’s tradition and I am happy to take part.
- Will you take care of your tree?
- Of course, I will. Not on a daily basis, but a few times a year I will attend to it.
Alexander Samedov thinks alike.
- It is a great thing and a big honour for everybody. I am glad to have been chosen for it.
- You have already built a home, fathered a son. Now you have planted a tree. What comes next?
- Many interesting things. We have a lot to achieve.
Meanwhile, Lokomotiv’s closest target is victory over Dynamo on Gameweek 3 of the Russian championship. Our team’s first home match is scheduled for this coming Sunday.
