Greetings.
It’s 2 AM here in Italy while I’m writing this (not sure yet when I’ll post it), and I’ve just gotten back home. A lot is going through my mind right now. Apologies in advance if my grammar is a bit off, but I really wanted to write this post while everything still feels raw and real. I also feel like I owe it to all of you for all the beautiful moments I’ve shared with you since 2022, when I first joined this big family.
I still remember how excited and happy I was when Team Italy decided to put their trust in me back in the Gen 8 era, even though I wasn’t a proven player yet. I also remember how tough it felt to lose in the semifinals vs Canada. But the thing is, I had so much fun and made such good memories back then that I promised myself I’d keep improving, just to give back to the team that saw something in me.
It’s never really been about winning the tournament to prove something in terms of skill. For me, it’s always been about the team spirit , that belief I’ve always had that Team Italy was, and still is, not only full of amazing players, but also of people I can truly call some of my best friends online (and some even in real life). This tournament has always felt more like a fun yearly trip that keeps us connected, even if most of us don’t really care that much about the game anymore.
And honestly, that’s what I love the most about this tournament. Every year, even if we don't give a fuck about Pokémon, we come back for this for the memories we share together. That’s what makes it so special. And that’s also why I wouldn’t have been too sad if we had lost because even in that case, nothing would take away from what’s possibly the single most memorable experience I’ve had with this game.
I really wanted to win this tour as an MVP again, like last year, or at least perform well like in previous years. But this year I wasn’t in the best shape as I’ve been going through a lot in real life, and underperforming definitely made me enjoy the tournament a bit less. The entire reason I've always enjoyed to play this tournament was just showing to the same people who trusted me that they made the right choice, that's why underperforming made me a bit mad and that's why I was more susceptible to ragebaiting and trolling, but I know it's your way of expressing affection. Still, in the past few weeks, I’ve realized that I need to adopt a more positive attitude about the game. Because unless you’re Empo (#LOL), you can’t always be at your best. And it's during the tougher times that your true value shows: in how you bounce back.
Even though I didn’t win this tournament the way I had hoped, I still consider it a legitimate personal victory especially given the insane amount of grinding and effort I’ve put into it over the years. My entire improvement as a player has been fueled by the desire to win this tour, as a way to repay all the trust you’ve placed in me throughout the years.
I feel a bit embarrassed and want to apologize for underperforming this time, especially knowing how high your expectations have always been for me. Since day one, ever since I was welcomed into this community back in 2022 , I promised I would be someone you could always count on.
This win anyway gave me the fuel to start competing at high level again in SV, I want to gain value from this win, from everything I've learnt by everyone of you and would be a total waste stopping here, counting that I think I have a lot more to offer in SV. So whatever tournament I'll join in future I'll make sure to make again some stellar performance and aim to the best.
I hope as long as I'll play to stay a reference point for Italian community: both for the new talents will join the team in the future but also for the people who will stay on the boat. It's not a secret for everyone who knows me that the community has always been everything I cared about. I do not know if Italy will win again in the future but what I really wish is that even our presence can be a motivation for people who are new in our community to start compete with having fun and bonding with other players.
I wanted initially to make s/o in private, but I decided to make them public because I want everyone to know how much I respect every single player of this Team and also people who were not officially on the team but are still part of the family.
Will of Fire Aurella Raiza Tricking
Thank you for giving me the first chance of competing for Team Italy back in 2022. I remember I was still unexperienced but you have seen something in me: probably it was the tryout tournament, probably it was my energy, but I'm quite sure that without you I would not be here.
Will of Fire you in particular have been an example and you have probably speed up my learning process of the game and even if I know I'm not anywhere close to your level I think that the good results I had across late SS or SV are big part because of having you as a mentor or someone with which confronting. Thank you so much. Not enough words can describe my gratitude towards you.
Aurella, I know this s/o can sound weird especially because you played vs us this year in finals, but I've always respected your work ethic and I have no doubt that if US West made to finals it's also because of your contributions. I'll never forget what you have done for us.
Raiza - you are probably one of the team mates with which I feel like I've emphatized more during the years, because I've seen in you something that I've always wanted to be especially in team tournaments settings. A hard worker, a leader and a professional. You are always so clean in game, and you did not hesitate to play even during the times where you felt unmotivated. I have a lot of respect for you and I hope you will have success for everything you decide to do.
Tricking - Greetings!!! I'm happy to share this win with you and I'm so happy you decided to play not just because I thought you are one of the smartest players on this game, but because I've noticed in these years without you there was something missing. I like to think that you wanted to give a try this year also because you have seen the team growing without you last year and even if you were not totally convinced to play I respect that you tried hard to win. I've enjoyed every single moment of watching you during ladder streams. I've also enjoyed talking about the most random shit and I'm also convinced you are a quite talented person also outside Pokemon. Bravo socio.
-Howkings - Thank you for believing in me from the start and giving me a chance to compete in my first major tournament outside WCoP like SCL 2022. That experience shaped my competitive mindset. I wish you were here to celebrate this trophy. I’d gladly share it with you. Also, you are always there to support and to check on me and I feel like we can talk about everything, you're truly a friend.
I hope to see you back in SPL/SCL, you’re killing it in VGC. Thank you, truly.
LittleBigPlanet2 - Alongside WoF, you’ve been essential in my growth on Smogon. If only I listened your advices more, I probably would’ve farmed more sheet wins. Your teambuilding style is so unique across fairy gens, and I still have much to learn from you. Without a doubt, you’re one of the main reasons Team Italy is so successful, not just in WCoP but across the board. I’d split this trophy with you too if I could. Thank you.
procorphish &
Kibo - I group you together for a reason. I shared a lot of time with Kibo during the SS era, and with Corphish in SV. You both hold a special place in my heart not just as great teammates, but as real friends who truly understand me. Playing with you during ladder streams made me gain passion again for this game. I also can't forget how much support you gave me across the years both emotionally and in-game.
s7a – When I came back in 2024, you were one of the few who believed in me. Without you pushing me to start again, I doubt I would’ve had a second shot competitively. You know how much last year meant to me, and you were a huge part of that.
I'm sorry you weren't with us this year to win a trophy that you truly deserved. But we'll see each other again soon, you know that.
Mada - My biggest regret is the significant geographical distance that separates you from the rest of the community, because realistically, I believe the doors to Team Italy would be open for you.
You’ve helped us with scouting unconditionally, providing support that’s truly invaluable, and I sincerely hope you get the chance to manage a big tournament like SPL or SCL, because you absolutely deserve it.
You’re the kind of person I consider a true friend, even if we sometimes think or operate differently.
Your work ethic is a rare quality, one that will serve you well beyond Pokémon too. You’re a talented person who never backs down from a challenge.
Cicada - You already know this: you're one of my best friends in this game. I dedicate this victory to you, because you lifted me up in my darkest moments.
We've known each other for years, and talking to you is always a pleasure, whether it's about Pokémon or beyond.
Despite the distance, I feel close to you. Thank you for everything, Daddy Paz.
I think you're the one who understands me better than everyone else on this website and that's everything you need to hear.
Going Hard - Your addition to Team Italy was one of the best decisions we've made. You're committed, you have an eye for players, and you've already won several side tours as a manager. It’s no coincidence that we won our second WCoP with you on board. You mean a lot to me, both as a friend and as a teammate. If you keep it up, you could become an incredibly strong player yourself. Thank you. Hope to see you again irl asap with the others ;)
Punny - We had a few trolling moments during this tournament, but you know how much I love you and how much I care about you. You're truly the heart of Team Italy. You give support everywhere, in every meta, and you're a 360° reference point. You're an example of all-around excellence. When people used to ask me why Team Italy is so strong I've always said that without you in particular we would never be able to be near as successful as we are. Not necessary because of your skill, but because of the vibes you bring and your unmatched altruism. For whoever wants to win a Team Tournament or whatever I wish them to team-up just because I can not think of such an important pillar of our community. I truly wish the best for you and I know you were not always in a positive mood, so I just hope everything is going well for you.
Niko - You and I are like cat and dog, but you've always been reliable. You've always been trusted and for good reason. This year you outdid yourself again, especially by building for other slots. Your value is felt even when you're not playing. I hope this won’t be the last time we play together as I’d be happy to share another tour with you. Even if we always end up malding and beefing for the most stupid reasons, you always have a special place in my heart as we first met back in 2015 in Team Sky era, and even when you won back in 2020 the WCoP for the first time I felt so happy for you. Sometimes I wish to have your same humor and approach on this game and I probably would benefit from that a lot.
Santu - SANTU CE LA SAND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
You were already amazing, but in the last two years you've made an insane leap forward. To me, you’re on the same level as Empo.You have a solid, precise style, never relying on gimmicks. You show that Pokémon can be a chess-like game.
Beyond your competitive value, you're one of the most pleasant people to talk to. What I like more about you is your positive attitude that make you a successful person also in other fields that are not necessary pokemon: you're such a disciplined person and both stour and graduation showed that.
THERE WASN'T THE SAND IN EVERY GAME AND EVERY WIN MATTERED!!!
Empo - Well, you’re the best, but there’s one thing I’m sure of: it can’t be easy carrying the weight of a team in every tournament. Staying at the top isn’t something you can take for granted, and in your case, it’s a mix of talent, consistency, and, above all, humility. Watching you play is always a learning experience, especially when you pay close attention. I don’t know what your future plans are, but I just hope to see you play in whatever tournament you decide to compete in because it’s always exciting to watch you play. Sometimes I think we don’t even deserve to have you on our team simply because, no matter how strong the rest of the team is, we’ll never be at your level. Thank you for every you did for us.
Kebab mlml - I’m incredibly happy about the amazing run you had during this tournament. More importantly, on a human level, you taught us a lot about taking things more lightly, which is what truly matters in this game. I deeply appreciated the effort you put in from start to finish. It was always a pleasure laddering together in call or watching Squid Games with
sonofalice. Without your positive energy and good vibes, I honestly doubt we would have come this far. Just like I said for Niko, I appreciated how you’re always there for us unconditionally, something that should never be taken for granted. I genuinely hope you succeed in whatever path life takes you, brother.
Laroxyl - You were probably one of the very first users I met on Showdown back in 2015, and I’m really glad we’ve always kept a good friendship, despite being separated by a screen. I know this hasn’t been the easiest time for you, and I truly hope things improve. If there’s one thing I’m sure of, it’s that you’re one of the most genuine people I’ve met through this game. I never feel awkward talking to you about anything. You’re also a great player. Even if you haven’t always gotten the results you wanted, I’m convinced that with a bit more calm, you’ll get back to your peak. I’ll never forget how clutch you were last year and how you’re always ready to jump in and give it your all. That mindset will help you wherever you go. I hope you enjoy this win, you deserve it.
StepC - I’m really happy you were part of our journey this year. After that unlucky game against xavgb in 2023, it was clear you deserved another chance, and you showed everyone you were more than up to the task. You contributed a lot in both UU and OU, always being reliable and showing great team spirit. I genuinely think that with a bit more consistency, you could become a key figure in the competitive scene. We’ve known each other for years, and beyond the game, I’m grateful to have shared this experience with one of my oldest and most genuine friends in the community. If you choose to continue, I’m convinced you can become a pillar of Team Italy in future editions, especially in the current gens. You have all the tools: knowledge, talent, and a personality that enriches the team.
H.M.N.I.P - Just like with Kebab, I really appreciated your calm, positive, and supportive attitude. You integrated naturally into the group and never hesitated to step up when help was needed, whether in UU or OU. That made a real difference. It’s clear you still have what it takes, and I’m glad you made the most of the support to bring us some crucial wins, both during the group stage and the playoffs. This year, I finally understood why there’s always such strong trust in you. It’s not just about skill or preparation. It’s also about the calm you bring, your consistent presence, and your ability to deliver the right energy at the right time. You’ve been a real asset, both as a player and as a person. I especially respect your constructive approach to losses, and the way you helped me view them from a different perspective.
entrocefalo - To me, you're the best Ubers player on the site, and probably beyond that too. But defining you only through that role would be limiting, because you've proven to be incredibly versatile much like Pohjis. No matter the tier you take on, you approach it with clarity, skill, and results. You may not be the most talkative, but every time we’ve spoken, whether for prep or just to chat, you've been a calm, reliable, and pleasant presence. That’s rare and appreciated in a scene that can often be chaotic. On top of your technical level, you’ve also given us some legendary moments and memes, like Richard vs Santuz, which is iconic at this point.
I'm really glad you became part of the Italian community in the past few years. You've brought value, humor, and a strong competitive spirit. I genuinely hope you’ll continue playing with us, because the team is better with you around.
JUST ONE GALATINA - It definitely wasn’t all smooth sailing you’ve made me mad at times but I can’t deny you deserve this trophy. You’re still relatively new to the game, yet in just a few years you’ve made big strides and clearly became a solid part of Team Italy. Don’t worry too much about individual results. This game is a rollercoaster of highs and lows, and what really matters is learning how to bounce back. Sometimes I wish you would stand up for yourself more and stop underestimating your own value. Remember, the journey matters just as much as the destination. I also really enjoy talking with you outside of the game, where we’re free from all the toxic dynamics that come with it. It was a pleasure meeting you IRL on those few occasions. Sorry if I got mad 2much for all the friendly trolling/ragebaiting etc, probably I exaggerated. That said, I’m really glad you made it, and I wish you success both inside and outside the game.
Ale Duncan - I’d be lying if I said you didn’t get on my nerves at times. But I’d be lying even more if I said you didn’t matter. You brought out the best in many players, especially in terms of motivation, and you kept the chat alive with so many fun and memorable moments. The best part is seeing someone like you, who had stepped away from the game, come back thanks to the friendships and bonds formed over the years. That speaks volumes about your character and shows that you understand what really matters here, not the game itself, but the relationships built through it. You earned this win too, enjoy it.
hellom - Thank you for supporting us during the playoffs last year and during top 8 & top 4 this year. You’re the SV player I admire the most, and you constantly push me to improve. Playing with you in SCL was also incredibly motivating, because it showed me what it means to think and act like the best. Even though you’re not Italian, I consider you part of the group, and I hope you’ll keep giving it your all. You have everything it takes to be part of the GOAT conversation. I truly hope our paths cross again in the future.
RichardMillePlain - I've already had such unique memories with you especially from SCL, you already know how much I admire you and I hope our paths will cross again. TY so much for having helped Punny in Ubers and GL with Grand Slam socio.
Micciu,
BluBirD - I had the pleasure to meet you in other circumstances, and I wanted to thank you so much for helping in UU/Ubers and ORAS. You guys made the difference and I hope these playoffs have been enjoyable for you : )
zS - You’re the last on this list only in order, not in importance but because I had this special message for you. In fact, if I’m being completely honest, you were the true MVP of this edition. We first crossed paths in 2022 during SCL, and even back then it was clear you had what it takes to become great. But what you achieved in 2024, and especially this year was on another level. You’ve shown extraordinary talent, but also incredible versatility in teambuilding and prep, which very few can match. To me, you’re currently one of the best SV players on the site. And it’s not just about your results, it’s about your approach, your clarity, and the creative way you interpret the game. Watching you prep or play is often like seeing a completely different perspective from mine, and I’ve learned more from you than you probably realize. Thank you for carrying this team with strength, seriousness, and humility. I truly believe your best is yet to come, and I look forward to seeing what more you’ll accomplish, both in the game and beyond.
s/o JUDGMENT FLEET & FILO GANG, the pillars of italian smogon community: seeing the community united to root for us is the real win.
s/o PHANTOM TROUPE, the most reals
s/o END GAME Team, THE BEST TEAM EVER
s/o SAX (my VGC Team, they're truly the GOATS) and Metaverse House (IL SOMMO = G O A T)
s/o SCL Islanders (one of the most memorable experiences I've had outside WCoP) and SPL Cryonicles (Sorry if you spent 16k on me for a shitty score, you deserved better :( )
s/o
Enzonana. for trolling TRICKING and rooting for us
Before concluding, thank you to the Hosts and gg wp US West. I know losing can hurt, but the key is to not give up, just look at us last year. You had the best gameplay and preparation in this tournament and you have a lot to offer especially in Current Gen Tiers .
