Reflections on Life and Expectations in St. Louis: An Interview with Hartel

**GOAL:** You’ve been in St. Louis for 18 months now. How has the experience been for you and your family?

**HARTEL:** I feel great, and my family is doing well. Upon our arrival, we received tremendous support from the community, which has contributed to our happiness here. While our success on the field has not met our expectations, personally, everything has been positive. We enjoy a wonderful living environment as a family, with plenty of activities available. The club offers amazing facilities, and the fans are fantastic. We just need to find that success in St. Louis, and then everything will be perfect.

**GOAL:** How do you find the quality of MLS compared to your expectations?

**HARTEL:** To be honest, I anticipated a lower level of quality. In Europe, there’s a common perception that the league isn’t very strong. However, from my very first day here, I realized that the level of play is surprisingly high. Many in Europe are mistaken about MLS.

**GOAL:** What aspects have been more challenging than you expected? Is it the pace of play or individual skill?

**HARTEL:** The individual quality of players has surprised me the most. Every team showcases unique skills, and the pace of the game is much faster than I had expected. Additionally, during the summer months, the weather impacts the tempo, especially in the latter stages of the match. Many of the critiques regarding the league’s speed may not account for the challenging conditions here.

**GOAL:** Weather and travel are often mentioned as challenges. How have you adapted to the heat and the travel demands?

**HARTEL:** Initially, the heat in St. Louis was quite overwhelming; you start sweating as soon as you step outside. However, after 18 months, I have acclimated somewhat. The most challenging aspect is the travel; for instance, we have long flights to California and Vancouver, coupled with time zone changes, which can take a toll on the body.

**GOAL:** Before joining the league, did you consult with anyone about the move? Were there individuals who encouraged you?

**HARTEL:** Yes, I spoke with Eduardo Lowen and Cedric Techert in St. Louis. Our German sporting director, Lutz Pfannenstiel, also played a significant role. Their positive experiences and insights made my decision easier.

**GOAL:** What were the main selling points they highlighted?

**HARTEL:** The stadium and facilities were major attractions. It was also crucial for me that my family would feel comfortable here. I visited St. Louis before signing my contract and had a good feeling about the neighborhoods available for us.

**GOAL:** Have you tried the local delicacy, toasted ravioli?

**HARTEL:** Absolutely!

**GOAL:** And is it genuinely as good as people say, or is that just hype?

**HARTEL:** It’s genuinely delicious.

**GOAL:** You have a new coach this season, Yoann Damet. How has the transition been so far? Have you engaged with him?

**HARTEL:** I’ve had two or three conversations with him, and they were very positive. Along with [sporting director] Corey Wray, everyone is enthusiastic about the upcoming season. We’re focused on having a strong preseason with our new coach to establish our playing style, both with and without the ball, and aim to improve upon last year’s performance.

**GOAL:** What did you know about Coach Damet before his appointment?

**HARTEL:** I was aware he came from the Columbus Crew, which made me optimistic. I expected him to bring elements of their successful playing style, as they have been impressive in recent years.

**GOAL:** To conclude, what are your expectations for this year? What would constitute a successful season?

**HARTEL:** For us as a club, reaching the playoffs would signify a successful season, and from there, we will see how it unfolds.