Andrea Marcato, Italian rugby player

Andrea Marcato, born on April 17, 1983, in the historic city of Padua, Italy, stands as a prominent figure in Italian rugby union. Renowned first as a skilled international player and now as a respected coach, his career spans significant contributions both on the field and from the touchline, embodying a deep passion for the sport.

A Distinguished Playing Career

International Representation and Six Nations Campaigns

Marcato proudly represented Italy on the international stage, earning 16 caps for his national team. His presence was particularly noted in the prestigious Six Nations Championships, where he featured in both the 2008 and 2009 editions. Playing as a fly-half, a pivotal role responsible for orchestrating attacks and directing play, Marcato's strategic vision and kicking prowess were vital assets for the Azzurri against Europe's rugby giants.

Club Success: Triumphs with Benetton Treviso

At club level, Andrea Marcato enjoyed a highly successful tenure with Benetton Treviso, one of Italy's most formidable rugby clubs. During his time there, he played a key role in securing four Italian championships, commonly known as the Scudetto, cementing his reputation as a serial winner. Beyond domestic dominance, Marcato also showcased his talents on a broader European and Celtic stage, appearing for Benetton Treviso in both the then-Celtic League (now United Rugby Championship) and the elite Heineken Cup (now Champions Cup), competing against some of the best teams across Europe and the Celtic nations.

The Calvisano Chapter and a Fifth Scudetto

Following his successful period with Treviso, Marcato made a significant move in 2011, returning to Italy to join a newly promoted Calvisano side. His arrival proved instrumental, as he immediately helped guide the team to an extraordinary achievement: winning the 2011-12 Italian championship title. This particular triumph marked his fifth personal Scudetto, a testament to his consistent excellence and winning mentality, and Calvisano's third title in their club history, underscoring the immediate impact of his leadership and experience.

Versatility as a Utility Back

Throughout his playing days, Andrea Marcato was primarily recognized as a fly-half, the team's chief playmaker. However, his adaptability also saw him frequently deployed at fullback, showcasing his comprehensive skill set. This ability to excel in multiple key backline positions earned him the reputation of a utility back, highly valued for his tactical flexibility and reliability.

Transition to Coaching: Leading Petrarca Rugby

Upon concluding his impactful playing career, Andrea Marcato seamlessly transitioned into the realm of coaching, bringing his wealth of on-field experience and tactical understanding to the touchline. Since 2017, he has served as the head coach of Petrarca Rugby, another storied club deeply rooted in Italian rugby tradition, located in his home city of Padua. Under his guidance, Petrarca continues to compete at the highest level of Italian rugby, benefiting from his strategic insights and leadership.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who is Andrea Marcato?
Andrea Marcato is a prominent Italian rugby union figure, celebrated as both a former international player and a current head coach. He was born in Padua, Italy, in 1983.
What position did Andrea Marcato primarily play?
Marcato primarily played as a fly-half, but he was also adept at playing fullback, making him a versatile utility back.
How many international caps did Andrea Marcato earn for Italy?
He earned 16 caps representing the Italian national rugby union team.
What were Andrea Marcato's major achievements as a player?
As a player, Marcato won a remarkable five Italian championships (Scudetti)—four with Benetton Treviso and one with Calvisano. He also participated in the 2008 and 2009 Six Nations Championships for Italy and played in top European club competitions like the Celtic League and Heineken Cup.
Is Andrea Marcato currently involved in coaching?
Yes, Andrea Marcato embarked on a coaching career after retiring as a player and has been the head coach of Petrarca Rugby since 2017.