Impactmontreal.com: What game was the most memorable game you’ve ever played?
Mauro Biello: My first game at Saputo Stadium, without a doubt, affected me the most. It was on May 19, 2008. I couldn’t believe that after so many years we would be playing in our own stadium. People may forget sometimes that the club went through some difficult moments. A soccer-specific stadium for the Impact would have been unthinkable just a few years prior.
Impactmontreal.com: What was the nicest goal you’ve ever scored with the Impact?
Mauro Biello: I’ve scored a lot of late goals or overtime goals during my career. It’s always special for a player to score an important goal in those situations. I remember scoring a goal at home in 2001 against Seattle and in 2004 against Charleston. I also fondly remember some key goals I’ve scored in the playoffs, most notably in 1997 against Long Island and in 2004 against Syracuse.
Impactmontreal.com: Amongst the numerous honours you’ve received over your career, which one is the most important to you?
Mauro Biello: I think seeing my jersey retired is probably the biggest honour of my career in Montreal. The ceremony exceeded all the honours and records I’ve received over the years. It’s a culmination of a lot of hard work. It is truly the greatest feeling of my career.
Impactmontreal.com: Which team was the most difficult to play against?
Mauro Biello: Rochester was without a doubt our biggest rival. The rivalry was at its strongest during the late 90s and early 2000s as we were probably the two strongest teams in the league. Rochester beat us a few times in the playoffs, but we had our turn in 2004.
Impactmontreal.com: Who were the most influential people in your career?
Mauro Biello: My wife and my family have been extremely important to me. They supported and encouraged me throughout my career.
Impactmontreal.com: What was the biggest challenge you’ve had to overcome?
Mauro Biello: One of the biggest challenges was to convince people that soccer would become popular here in Quebec. There is still work to do in order to help communicate to people the true beauty of the sport, but I am proud to be a partner with the Impact in this endeavor. Soccer is the sport most practiced by kids in Quebec and it makes me happy. I am proud to have been a part of establishing that.
Impactmontreal.com: As someone kids look up to, what advice would you give to those who might want to follow in your footsteps?
Mauro Biello: Most importantly, believe in yourself. You have to persevere. Follow your passion. Hard work and discipline will help you achieve your goals.
Impactmontreal.com: After such a prolific career, what are you most proud of?
Mauro Biello: I am very proud that I played over 25,000 minutes with the Impact. The fact that I was able to play for so many years in front of my family and friends fulfills me and I’d like to thank the Impact and the people of Montreal with all my heart for giving me the opportunity to live so many great moments at home.
