February 28, 2025
Marek Gil – A new old role
Marek Gil – A Man Who Cut His Teeth on Polish American Football
His sports CV is as long as a weekly shopping list, and even just briefly touching on it, one has to mention Zagłębie Steelers, Kraków Tigers, and the Polish U-19 national team. Finally, as an experienced, dedicated offensive lineman and later the president of the crown jewel – Kraków Kings.
Marek, welcome back to Kings!
INTERVIEW WITH MAREK
Marek, you’re training with a team where you were recently the president. It’s hard to find a better compliment for the organization. What made you return to active play after all these years? Was it more about your attachment to the people here or still-unfulfilled sports ambitions?
For the past three years, I’ve been training regularly at the gym. I’ve actually achieved better results than during my playing days, so I figured I might as well see if I could still contribute to the team. There are still a few guys on the roster who played with me back in the Tigers, and some with whom we founded the Kings. I’m really happy to be part of the team again.
What were your biggest concerns before returning? Did any of them come true? Do you plan to combine playing with mentoring younger players?
I struggled with the decision to return for a long time. I wasn’t sure if I could handle the conditioning, if I still remembered the technique, or if I could take a hit. On the very first practice, Filip Świechowicz tested my helmet, and everything came rushing back.
I think there are plenty of young players that I can learn from as well. We help each other out and train hard to be in sync on the field.
What differences do you notice in the mentality of younger players? Do you get along well with them, considering you were overseeing them not long ago?
I’m really impressed with their skills and attitude. I have to give 100% at every practice just to keep up. They are incredibly well-prepared for the season. I think we get along great—there’s a fantastic atmosphere at practice.
You’ve experienced firsthand how football in Poland has evolved. How does preparation for the season today compare to 10 or even 15 years ago? And how do you assess these changes?
When we tell locker room stories about what our practices looked like back in 2008, for many, it sounds like science fiction—something unimaginable today. Thankfully, at Kings, we have an incredible coaching staff, and our training sessions are very professional. I also have to give credit to the new management because everything is perfectly organized.
One thing that never changes in football is that you have to be physically prepared and always play to the whistle.
Many players who have hung up their cleats have probably thought about returning to football. What would you like to say to them—maybe even encourage them?
If you have the time and you’re in shape—come back!
Do you feel like you enjoy the game more now than you did before?
I think I approach it differently now. I have a smile on my face the entire practice. The opportunity to train and play brings me so much joy. The only difference is that recovery takes a bit longer…
Lastly, tell us which opponent you’re most looking forward to facing and why?
I have friends in almost every team, and in some, even close friends. I look forward to every single game, and I can’t wait for the season to start!
I wish you good health, continued success, and endless joy in the game!
Thanks!