Two Allianz Powervolley Milano players are on the Italian national team’s long list for the 2026 VNL, unveiled today by coach Ferdinando De Giorgi.
They are libero Damiano Catania and spiker/receiver Tommaso Ichino. Catania is now firmly among the “ministers” of defense and reception in Italy’s volleyball team. Born in Catania, and raised in Puglia (Castellana Grotte), the 2001-born player is among the most effective and spectacular liberos in the world. His defensive “flights” beyond the LEDs have been a trademark even in his third season in Milan. Pressed by Andrea Zorzi during the latest After Hours broadcast on the national team, Damiano stated: “For me, as for everyone, it’s a great feeling to be available and have the goal of playing for that jersey. Then the goal rests on the coach’s decision. I’m trying to prove my worth on the pitch, then I can only keep my fingers crossed, everyone wants to be part of this very strong group: we are Italy and we play for big goals.”
