South American star Cataldi hoping to break Coastie hearts
Not many players in the State League Men’s competition can boast that they’ve played at one of the biggest clubs in the world.
But that’s the case for Rodrigo Cataldi, the South American has found a home at Fraser Park and will be looking to cap off his first season in Australia with a trophy.
Football NSW caught up with him before this week’s grand final.
“My youth football was played at River Plate which is the biggest club in Argentina. After that I continued my career at a club in the second division called Comunicaciones. Unfortunately, then, I injured my knee and had to stop for a while.
“That experience did however help me learn everything I know, and it molded me to be the player I am today.”
Now at Fraser Park, Cataldi is enjoying his time plying his trade.
“I found football here very physical but that’s not a bad thing, there’s a lot of talent especially in young upcoming players.
“Luckily for myself, I found a team that play with the style and intensity that I have played my whole life which allows me to show my passion for this beautiful sport.”
Despite the club not being able to get to their target of promotion, Cataldi sees a lot of positives out of the campaign.
“Overall, it’s been a very good season considering that our squad was entirely new to the club.
“We have a very talented coach that makes us play good football and a club with the appropriate facilities to make us have a proper football environment.”
“Personally, I’m glad to be back in the pitch as I didn’t play last year and looking forward to playing in Australia for a long time.”
Looking ahead, Fraser Park know it’s going to be a battle come Sunday afternoon.
“We’ve played them 3 times already this year, we know what we will have in front of us, so we know how concentrated we have to be.
“Both teams approach our games in a very similar way. But I think if we keep focused, we have a good chance of winning. We’ll try our best to bring the trophy home.”
The State League Men’s grand final will pit Cataldi and his teammates up against Central Coast United this Sunday. Kick off 3pm at Valentine Sport Park.
