Mattia Bottolo has learned that the biggest moments in volleyball are often decided before a match even begins.
“Confidence is everything,” said Mattia Bottolo, reflecting on a 2025 season that brought both success and greater responsibility with the Italy national team. “It depends on you. If you approach the game with the awareness that you have all the characteristics to play well and you work hard to get it, anxiety cannot bother you.”
That understanding has been built over time. Bottolo had already experienced success at the highest level, but 2025 marked a year of maturity and growth. He became more settled in his role and clearer about preparation and control.
Away from the court, his routine was no less demanding. In 2025, Bottolo completed his bachelor’s degree in biology, finishing his thesis and graduation while continuing to compete at the highest international level. The academic milestone came in the same year he helped Italy defend their world championship title.
“It is really hard to do these two things at the same time,” he said. “Volleyball takes a lot of your daily time, and the university requires time as well. You need to be very sure and determined. It helps me optimise my organisation, even recognising the impossibility to do both on the same day or for a period of time.”
Mattia Bottolo reacts during a match at the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship.
University was a personal choice rather than a safety net. He began his studies out of interest in biology, without trying to map out how it might fit into his life after volleyball.
“I started university because I like it,” he said. “I don’t know what the future has for me, but I’m sure I’ll do whatever I like.”
That way of thinking also shapes how he views younger players. While many focus only on volleyball from an early age, Bottolo believes education still has a place.
“At a young age, you have the possibility to be good at both,” he said. “You don’t know what will happen in the future. Luck has a part in the process and volleyball is not forever, so you have to prepare a plan B. I was raised with this mentality. I want to learn as much as possible in every aspect.”
Italy’s Mattia Bottolo poses during a photo shoot for the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship in the Philippines.
On the court, he remains focused on improvement. Despite major team success, he sees his game as a work in progress.
“I feel I can improve in every area,” he said. “I made a big step in passing last season, but I can improve even more, the same with serving and spiking.”
When he is away from volleyball and study, Bottolo keeps things simple. He enjoys playing cards and watching anime, often with teammates.
Bottolo pursued two paths that usually pull top athletes in opposite directions. His achievements were not incidental, but hard-earned, built on confidence, discipline and consistency.
Source: https://www.fivb.com/mattia-bottolos-fine-balancing-act-reaps-rewards/
