Seventeen year old Dario Arran Zampa made his official debut with Luxol FC yesterday in the match that his team played against Pembroke. Although playing only a few minutes in the second half, young Dario was still elated to be given this golden opportunity.

“When the coach decided to give me this chance I was a bit nervous at first but after a couple of minutes I gained confidence and I succeeded to win several balls,” he said after the match.

Asked about his futsal career, Dario told me that he began playing this sport a year ago, when his cousin Stefano Zampa who played with Valletta, suggested him to go for a trial with the citizens.

“I played some friendlies with Valletta, I really felt comfortable and succeeded to score goals as well.”

I decided to sign with Valletta. I can still remember my first league match against Zejtun.”

Luck was on Dario’s side as after this game the national coach called him for a friendly as well.

“National coach Kevin Mifsud really helped me and patiently taught me this wonderful game. He managed to transmit a lot of confidence in me and most importantly never to give up.”

“My first coach was Kevin Loughborough, whom I would like to thank for the opportunity he had given me.”

This season he signed with football side Luxol.

“After some time our current team manager told me to join his futsal team for this campaign. I accepted without any hesitation.”

Yesterday’s debut was certainly a step forward in the right direction. Asked about his future, he promptly answered

“My objective is to become a professional futsal player and score important goals.”