Aldo started playing badminton at a very young age, winning all national titles and represented Malta in various international championships. Whilst time management is always a challenge Aldo juggles his family, business and sporting commitments well. A lesser known fact about Aldo is that he is a good singer and regularly performs at Voices concerts, both in the choir and as a solo performer.

Name: Aldo Polidano

Age: 39

– Tell us a little about your background either as a participant or a coach?

My badminton career fulfilled my ambitions. In my prime years I managed to win all the National titles and also represented Malta in various World & European Championships including the Thomas Cup, World championships, circuit tournaments & locally hosted international tournaments. I also attended overseas and local training camps under various coaches, Danish, Dutch, Bulgarian & Russian national coaches.

These past few years I’ve turned my focus to coaching our young athletes and I hope that our contribution as coaches is enabling them to love this game, improve their technique and enhance their abilities.

– How long have you been involved in badminton?

I’ve been playing badminton for over 32 years as I started at a very young age and never looked back.

– Apart from their athletic capability, what do you consider when recruiting members for your team?

I look for committed and disciplined players that are eager to learn and improve their skills.

– What are the biggest challenges you face as a coach?

My greatest challenge is to cope with all my commitments. Raising a family, managing a business, working long hours, also playing or training 5-6 times a week is not an easy task. However good time management, discipline & perseverance is what helps me manage and successfully undertake my commitments.

– What are your expectations for the team for the upcoming Championship?

I hope that our kids will have a positive experience to cherish for a lifetime. Obviously would love to see some good results from our youngsters and future National players because they have all worked hard these past 2 years.

– If you get the chance to coach a world class badminton player, who would your choice be?

I don t think he would really need me 🙂 but if I had to choose, Lin Dan.

– Do you like to play any other sport other than Badminton?

When I was younger I used to take part in athletics, basketball & volleyball, however badminton was always my favourite sport.

– Things that you like to do while you are not playing Badminton?

I have a great passion for Art so when I find some time mostly in the darkest hours I grab my paint brushes and create something that inspires me. It gives me freedom of expression and though I will be physically exhausted at times, it helps me relax mentally.  I also love design, photography, composing music and singing.

– Your status? If studying/working what/where?

I manage my family’s printing press, which has grown from a small to medium sized company.