We spoke with Bryan Arnold of our FISTF World Cup team in the third installment of an interview series with the USA squad.
ASA: Can you describe the feeling of representing the USA at the FISTF World Cup?
BA: I feel thrilled!! Absolutely joyful and honored to represent the ASA overseas. The experience remains a singular motivation in my midlife. I am very gratified to refine my skills and support my teammates.
ASA: It’s been four years since the last World Cup in Gibraltar: how has your game changed since then?
BA: I have worked on my game instrumentally for the past four years. Most of my work has been alone in training, but I also have played more matches than I ever have before. I refined my approach to competition: I am motivated by and pleased by improvement.
ASA: How are you training for the World Cup?
BA: I work solo on technical skills such as flicking technique, and shooting at angles and distances. I focus on tasks and match situations, which help me develop invaluable mental concepts. You can get a lot done in solo training using your abstract thinking.
ASA: What are the prospects for the U.S. team in the Open category?
BA: For the Open team, I think the prospects are positive. I believe that another quarterfinal result is very much in the cards. Our players have experience in big tournaments, earning respect around the world. It will be fantastic to view and be part of.
ASA: What are your individual goals for Rome?
BA: My goal is to experience improvement in my World Cup matches. I want to improve and to get that good feeling from the work itself. Simple as that!
