In the vibrant world of Italian volleyball, where legends are forged and new stars constantly emerge, a name has been echoing with increasing frequency: Federico Crosato. Hailed by Italian media as «Padova`s new jewel,» this 20-year-old middle blocker is not just participating in the game; he`s rapidly reshaping expectations and proving that potential, when coupled with relentless dedication, transforms into undeniable prowess. His journey from a humble start to a formidable presence on both national and international courts offers a compelling narrative of talent, hard work, and a refreshingly grounded perspective.
The Unlikely Genesis: When Yellow Balls Were Not Enough
Before his towering blocks and strategic plays became a highlight of the Italian Superlega, Federico Crosato`s athletic endeavors began with a different kind of net: the tennis court. One can almost picture the young Trevisan, racquet in hand, attempting to master the intricacies of serves and volleys. However, as Crosato himself admits with a smile, he wasn`t quite adept with the yellow ball. It`s an amusing twist of fate, an almost ironic prelude, that a player destined to become a formidable force at the net, a master of timing and power, initially found himself somewhat at odds with a smaller, bouncier projectile. Perhaps the yellow ball simply lacked the proper competitive spirit, or more likely, it was merely a prelude to a much larger, more net-centric destiny.
By the age of 14, a pivotal shift occurred. Having explored various roles common in youth volleyball rotations, Federico gravitated towards the middle blocker position. It was here, amidst the thud of the ball and the exhilaration of the block, that he found his true calling. The realization that he was not just «doing good» but excelling, sparked the idea that volleyball could be more than a passion; it could be a viable career path.
A Champion`s Pedigree: The National Team Era
Crosato`s commitment soon bore fruit, not just for himself but for a generation of Italian volleyball talent. Alongside his teammates from the 2000-2002 cohort, he has amassed an impressive collection of silverware that many veterans would envy. His trophy cabinet already boasts:
- 2019: U19 World Champion
- 2021: U21 World Champion
- 2022: #EuroVolleyU22M Champion (in the inaugural edition)
Playing for the Italian national team, Crosato emphasizes, is an immense source of pride. «I am always happy when I receive a call-up,» he notes, highlighting the unique bond shared by players who are rivals during the club season but become «old friends» united under the national banner. This camaraderie, combined with rigorous training, has forged a winning mentality. The medals, he explains, are not just symbols of victory but «a recompensation for all the hard work,» a tangible representation of countless hours spent honing skills and building strategies. It`s about bringing joy and pride back to Italy, to their families and the nation.
«With my teammates, we see each other as old friends — we play against each other during the season, then we play together for the national team and this is great. The Gold that we won together, together with the other medals in these past years — all this means that we have built something during trainings; it is a recompensation for all the hard work, because you don’t prepare for an European or World championship for two weeks. And in the end, it is nice to bring back home to Italy the medals; to make our families and nation feel proud.»
Federico Crosato
Thriving in Padova: The Superlega Showcase
Currently, Federico is showcasing his burgeoning talent in the highly competitive Italian Superlega with Pallavolo Padova. In his second season with the club, he has quickly become a key component, currently holding the 10th position in the Best Middle Blockers rankings with 74 points – a testament to his consistent performance against seasoned professionals. Coming from Volley Treviso, the transition to Padova has been seamless, largely due to a supportive environment.
«The atmosphere is very good — the club, the fans, the city,» Crosato shares. «It is a perfect place for me to start my journey in Serie A. I am also quite close to my home, so I have my parents coming to all the games, supporting me.» This familial proximity undoubtedly provides a comforting anchor amidst the pressures of professional sports. His personal goals remain clear: «to keep on growing, developing, learning from more experienced players on the squad.» Despite his youth, he`s eager to make a significant impact: «I want to contribute! Maybe I am young, not that experienced, but I have a lot of energy to give!»
Inspiration and Aspiration: A Measured Climb
Unlike many athletes who idolize a single figure, Federico Crosato takes a more analytical approach to inspiration. «I don’t have a sort of idol, to say `I want to be just like him!`» he explains. Instead, he meticulously observes «many players,» studying their techniques, their behavior, and their presence on the court. «The most beautiful things I see, I try to apply them.» This pragmatic, observational learning style reflects his «step by step» philosophy, focusing on incremental improvements derived from a diverse pool of excellence. It`s a technical approach to personal growth, almost like an engineer disassembling various models to build a superior one.
While his focus remains firmly on short-term goals and continuous personal development, Crosato isn`t devoid of grand aspirations. Winning the Scudetto (the Italian championship title) and joining the senior national team are firmly on his long-term wish list. These are not distant fantasies but rather logical extensions of his current trajectory, fueled by consistent effort and a relentless drive for improvement.
Beyond the Net: The Man Off-Court
Despite the demanding schedule of a professional athlete, Federico Crosato remains remarkably grounded. «Federico outside the court is just a normal guy,» he states, eschewing any pretense of celebrity. His limited free time is dedicated to the people who matter most: his family and friends. Simple pleasures like trips to the sea or the mountains offer a refreshing escape from the intense competitive environment. He also diligently balances his professional commitments with his studies, acknowledging the importance of education. While volleyball consumes the vast majority of his passion and energy, it`s clear that the `new jewel` is, at his core, a well-rounded individual focused on holistic growth.
Federico Crosato represents the exciting future of Italian volleyball. With a unique blend of prodigious talent, unwavering dedication, and a refreshingly humble approach, he is not just the «next big thing» but a living testament to the power of disciplined ambition. As he continues his ascent, one block, one point, one trophy at a time, the volleyball world watches with keen anticipation.
Torin Vale 
Gideon Holt