Eraldo Pizzo

Eraldo Pizzo was a giant in the world of Italian water polo. He took up the sport at the age of 12 and did not retire until 32 years later, after spending most of his career with the Pro Recco club. Coached by his brother Piero between 1959-66, Eraldo won 15 Italian titles with Pro Recco between 1959 and 1982. He also helped Rari Nantes Bogliasco win their first title in 1981. As at 2021 it remains their only title.

Internationally, Pizzo won the European Champions Cup in 1964, the first by an Italian team. However, it was with the Italian national team that Pizzo enjoyed his most success internationally. He made his Italy début in 1957 and scored 275 goals in 178 appearances. He was one of the youngest members of the squad that won the gold medal at the 1960 Roma Olympics. He competed in three other Olympics and also took part in three European Championships, finishing fourth each time.

After ending his competitive career with more than 1200 goals in official matches, Pizzo became president of Pro Recco for three years, during which time they won two other Italian titles (1983-84) and a Champions Cup (1983). He then became the club’s coach, general manager and technical director and he guided them to two further League titles and two more Champions Cup wins. As a coach he was also assistant to the national team (1987-90).

Eraldo Pizzo was inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame in 1990, and in May 2015, a plaque dedicated to him was included in the Walk of Fame of Italian sport in Rome, an honour reserved for ex-Italian athletes who have distinguished themselves internationally.