Exclusive Interview with Tyler Attardo

Tyler Attardo plays in the newly formed Canadian Premier League for his hometown club in Winnipeg, Valour FC. He recently turned 18 years old and is Valour’s top scorer with 6 goals.

Brian Bertie was able to interview him about his past, present and future.

• How do you feel with your achievements this season in the Canadian Premier League, especially given you’ve just turned 18?

I’m pretty happy with how it’s been going, obviously I’m always looking for more and always looking to improve, but so far I think the season has gone pretty well and I’m just looking to improve.

• Can you tell us a little bit about how you got to Chievo Verona and Rangers of Chile?

For Chievo, it was a camp here in Winnipeg and I was scouted to go a little further. 2 years ago I was in Italy over separate periods of time and I just played within their academy and over at Rangers, my agent Nano Romero got me over there and got me training with the first team squad for about 2 to 3 weeks.

• Can you tell us about your experience at those 2 clubs and what you’ve learned?

Chievo is a very professional club and they’ve helped me improve my game in ways I can’t imagine. I was there about 8 months total. Chile was a little different, I loved it there every player is unbelievable technically and the stuff I learned was unbelievable.

• How do you feel having transitioned from a right winger to a centre forward?

I think it’s gone well, I had experience of playing striker and winger. Mostly this season I have been playing wing but it’s a different type of game. On the wing you’re trying to break the lines and win the 1 v 1 out wide where as a striker I try to get in position and find the pockets of space and make the runs up front so it’s a little bit different but I think the adjustment has gone well.

• What do you make of Valour FC’s season?

I think it’s been good. There has definitely been some up and downs of the season but overall I think it’s been good. This is the first year of the CPL, meeting the guys and the ability we have as a team, has been unbelievable. We are still in the race for 3rd place right now and it’s starting to pick up, so I think overall the season has been good for us.

• How do you think Rob Gale helped your development?

He’s helped me so much. Things in and out of training. Helping me learn proper decision making and when to hit the ball in certain places at certain times, and I’m also thankful for how many opportunities he’s been giving me. 

• What are your future ambitions?

I’m always looking at the CanMNT that’s something I really want to do and what I push myself for every day. As far as Chievo and Chile goes, I have nothing against either and I would be happy to go back if given the chance, they’re great places, unbelievable soccer. My experience in both places was absolutely amazing. I don’t know what the future holds for me but I hope to just keep working as hard as I can and see where it goes.

Photo: CPL