Interview with Peter Pullicino

by Ayrton Galea - 4th September 2011

After talking with several new signings, we decided to talk with another person that joined our Club this year. This time, we interviewed the First Team's Assistant Coach and Under 19 Team's Coach, Mr. Peter Pullicino.

Can you tell us a little about yourself?

I am 35 yrs old, married to my beautiful wife Claudette. We have 2 lively boys named Dylan and Ryan aged 5 and 2 respectively. They keep me and my wife pretty busy all the time. My second love is football which I have been involved in since I was the age of 7. I will always be involved in Football one way or another.

We know that you were born and raised in Australia. How and why did you end up in Malta?

Both my parents are from Malta, My mum is from Rabat and my Dad is from Birkirkara. Yes that's right Birkirkara. So, obviously that's my connection to the country and Club. I came to Malta about 10 years ago now because I just wanted to concentrate on playing Football. At the time I could not do that in Australia because there was no Professional Football.

What made you become a football player?

My family was my biggest influence, especially my father. He just loves football and supported me through the bad times as well as the good times.

What are the main differences between football in Australia and in Malta?

Today Football in Australia is Professional and making great progress because of this. Physically the game is much stronger and faster in Australia. Technically there is not much difference.

Can you tell us something about your past experiences as a player?

I have many memories as a player but the best thing about being a player is being part of a group and I can enjoy the sport we all love. In addition to that, there is always the dressing room jokes which makes it more fun.

Which are your best and worst memories as a player?

My worst memory would have to be seriously injuring my knee which kept me out of the sport for a few months when I was 18 years old and just about to step into First Team Football. My best memory is definitely wearing the National jersey for the first time against Germany.

When and why did you decide to go for a coaching career?

My father used to be involved in coaching and I think seeing him do that when I was young has influenced me. I always want to be involved in Football and doing it this way, through coaching, makes sense for me.

Many might not understand the job of an Assistant Coach. Can you explain your job exactly?

The Assistant Coach has various roles. The most basic is that of support for the Head Coach. Sometimes being the Head Coach can be a lonely place. I also make suggestions about team selection but need to respect the Head Coaches final decision. I also take care of all the warming up in training and before games. The last important job I will mention is sometimes players come to me asking for my opinion and support in various matters and then pass on the message to the Head Coach which we will then discuss and take care of together. I hope this explains one of my roles within the Club.

What are the difficulties of this job?

As Assistant Coach you do not have the final say and you have to go with what the Head Coach says all the time.

Do you think that since you were a player yourself, you understand the players' problems more? Does it make a big difference?

Yes, I believe being a player before makes a huge difference. The feeling of a player is different to any other. The emotions of a player are like a roller coaster ride and they have their ups and downs. I experienced that many times and that makes me sympathetic to the role of a player. My experiences give me a unique understanding of how and what a player feels.

How would you describe your relationship with Mr. Curmi?

My relationship with Patrick is very good. We have similar ideas on football and the way it should be approached. We also have similar interests outside football. I first met him as a player when he coached Msida F.C a few years ago and our relationship has continued to grow.

What were your reactions when Birkirkara FC asked for your services?

I was honoured to have such a big club in Malta asking for my services. It is also the club my father used to tell me about when I was young, so this connection makes the day Birkirkara called me an even prouder one for me and my family, especially my father.

Why did you accept this new challenge?

It is the biggest challenge I have ever had in my short coaching career so far. I also thought it was time for a change. The timing was perfect so to be honest it was a very easy decision to accept the job.

What are the main targets of the First and Under 19 Teams? And what are you expecting in this season from both teams?

The main targets for both teams are to finish as high as possible on the table and try to win some silverware along the way. Achieving these goals would be a great achievement.

What are your personal targets with our Club?

As a coach, you always want your players enjoying their football. I get a great sense of achievement when I see my players training with a smile on their face. Maybe that also comes from having been a player.

Do you have a message for the supporters?

Stay behind us through the rough times and enjoy the good times.

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