When San Ġiljan ASC player, Matthew Zammit, joined Italian second division team Rari Nantes Imperia in autumn he was aware that life as a player and being away from home would not be a bed of roses. However, he was determined to stick to his plans of making the best of the opportunity which came his way. Here, he gives his views to Alex Vella.
How did your connection with Rari Nantes Imperia start?
I was approached by ex-coach of Sirens Marco Baldinetti who made contacts with Rari Nantes Imperia.
What helped you mostly in settling down in Italy despite obvious difficulties when having to leave your country?
Determination and love for the game.
Describe your daily routine in the context of having to adapt yourself to new training programmes.
Training here is twice a day, two hours per session including gym workouts three times a week. I spend my free time with some of my team players.
What is the basic difference in attitude between sportsmen in Malta and those in Italy, particularly with regard to waterpolo players?
The attitude for the game is professional, but as for dedication I would say that Maltese players are as much dedicated because they work and train while here you only concentrate on training and games.
Are you basically utilised as a centre by RN Imperia, or do you also have to fit in other roles?
My role here is playing in the position of a centre. My position is changed in man-ups. I think my scoring rate in Malta is much better though. Here, the position of a centre is used mostly to win penalties, man-ups and open play on the flanks, besides, of course, scoring. The defenders are physically stonger and mark tighter and as you take your position in the centre they will soon change their defence to zone.
In what ways can you improve when playing abroad?
Obviously, training as a professional will help you improve a lot, both physically and technically.
Facilities are also better here considering that the clubs have indoor pools and other amenities. Moreover, the gym, the nutritionist and the physio are easily reached when necessary.
Why will your engagement in Italy help you develop mentally and as a person?
Living away from home and being independent makes you more responsible.
Would you opt for a further contract abroad in future?
Yes, playing overseas has always been my ambition. I would readily consider possibilities of extending my playing stint abroad.
How do you regard waterpolo in winter as distinct from that in Malta, which is traditionally played in summer?
In Italy the championship is longer as there are more teams competing and it is played indoors. As a professional player, I like both.
What are the main disadvantages of players in Malta when having to face the same few teams in our competitions, in contrast to the situation elsewhere?
There is limited improvement when facing the same teams and players. In foreign championships there are more players of different abilities from whom you can learn because there are more teams involved.
Is there a future for a Maltese player pursuing a waterpolo career abroad?
Yes, we have good players who can make it here, and my advice to these players is to have determination, love for the game and not to be afraid to face sacrifices. Dedication is vital towards making a success in any activity.
You'll be back playing for San Ġiljan in summer. What are your team's prospects and also your personal ambitions?
The prospects are the same like that of every other team in Malta.
They aim to be successful and win honours. Of course, my personal ambition is winning a league championship with my team, San Ġiljan ASC.