Gold medalist at the Olympics and Hall of Famer Marco D’Altrui is one of the most important guest of HaBaWaBa Plus U13. D’Altrui is currently Pescara U13 coach: we asked him what he thinks about he new Waterpolo Development event.
D’Altrui, does HaBaWaBa Plus U13 work?
It’s a very interesting tournament, specially if Waterpolo Development will likely increase the number of teams in the future. But I already like it very much: the format is good, young players can play a lot of games and the real value of the teams can emerge.
What did you like the most?
The rigorous time schedule of the matches and the way the pool is set up. First I was uncertain about the new rules, but then I changed my mind.
One of the most important news is the rule that forbids to stay in center position more than 5’’.
With that rule we have a more balanced tournament. Teams without players specialized in a single position can be more competitive, meanwhile the game became faster. Squads with a strong center loses their advantage and that is good for the tournament. I’ve seen that every team quickly adjusted to the rule and players are having fun with a more dynamic water polo.
Are Pescara’s players having fun?
We lost three games in Phase A, but I guess playing tough games is better than playing soft ones. Almost all of my players were in the past at HaBaWaBa International Festival, so they are very happy to come back here. Aside of the tournament, kids like to be in an environment such nice as HaBaWaBa Plus. Their parents are happy too because they see their kids having fun.
What are the best team you’ve seen here?
We played against Barcelona in Phase A: I guess they are on another level.
Marco D’Altrui talks with his players before the match
