Collective Excitement over George Bello’s School Visit

"It was a great experience for me. The students asked many good questions, not only about football but also about other topics. I tried to answer everything as best as I could," said "Professor" Bello, who wouldn't want to miss this school visit for the world. The class, filled with passionate LASK fans and football enthusiasts, was well-prepared. The questions ranged from his time in the U.S. to his views on the new European competition format, his triumph with the national team at the 2021 Gold Cup, his daily training routine, and even the upcoming U.S. presidential election.

"We were absolutely thrilled. It was something very special and a great opportunity for us. I found the football-specific questions particularly exciting, but also how he manages to handle such a busy routine," said class president Paul Firoozabady. School principal Michael Haderer was equally impressed: "For the school, it means opening up to the outside world, which is always good. For the students, it means a great deal, especially for those deeply involved in football. You could see how much interest there was, particularly with the football-related questions, which made me extremely happy." The idea for this event came from the parent association after LASK players had played football with students during the school's summer festival.

At just five years old, George Bello began his soccer career overseas—American football, however, was deemed too dangerous, as the Nigerian-born athlete explained to the captivated students. The dream of becoming a professional player was always present from an early age, initially as an attacking midfielder and winger. Over time, Bello found his place as a left-back. In 2022, he made the leap from Atlanta to Bielefeld. "It was always my dream to play in Europe. I hope I can play here for many more years." Off the pitch, Bello, who has been with LASK since summer 2023, feels right at home. "It's very different from America, a bit more relaxed. But I really like it in Linz."

He named his father and older brother as his role models, while Lionel Messi also made the list, neatly answering the classic question of Messi or Ronaldo—though he quickly added his deep respect for the Portuguese star as well. George Bello always interacted with the students on equal footing, his eloquent responses sprinkled with humility, despite his own high aspirations. "I just want to keep growing as a player and as a person, perform as best as I can for LASK, and make my family proud." Of course, the 2026 World Cup at home is a dream of his. "I hope we can make history there."

Of course, maintaining such enthusiasm also requires a strong physical level. Fittingly, in connection with the English lesson’s topic on Sports & Health, several intriguing questions emerged. Bello shared insights on key recovery measures after matches, such as massages or ice baths, healthy eating, and getting enough sleep. “I usually sleep seven to eight hours,” revealed Bello, who has played 47 competitive matches for LASK since joining in the summer of 2023. Reflecting on his only significant injury a few years ago, he shared that he gained many positive lessons from the experience: “You learn a lot and can become mentally stronger.” When asked for advice for young players, Bello emphasized, "You have to work hard for everything; nothing happens overnight. You need to know what you want and do everything you can to achieve it."

In addition to his football training, the U.S. player highlighted the crucial importance of education, a value that is also prioritized at the LASK Academy in Upper Austria. “You can’t play football forever, so it’s always important to have a second career option,” said the 22-year-old, who is pursuing a degree in sports management himself.

Only the advancing time prevented a longer stay with the eager students of class 7B, who managed to secure autographs and a group photo at the end. The visit was marked by mutual respect and great appreciation — values that are highly emphasized at Kollegium Aloisianum. As principal Michael Haderer pointed out, "For us, it is crucial to see, hear, and feel that every person is unique and special. This sense of dignity is central to our pedagogy and is something we hold as fundamental."