Italian league champions, ASD S Stefano have recently announced the signing of young British player, Harry Blyth following his departure from the Köln 99ers. He spoke with Rollt.’s Dylan Cummings about his move to Italy.
Why did you choose to move to ASD S Stefano?
“They are a really good club. They won the Italian championship last season for the first time. I like the challenge of playing in a competitive team and testing my skills.”
You played for Köln 99ers for a season under a great coach like Mat Foden, why did you choose to leave and why do you think Köln have been relegated to RBBL 2?
“Firstly, last season was great, despite the difficulties we faced. We had a young and enthusiastic team paired with an incredible coach. However, I think we lacked that one key guy, that had the experience and knowledge of how to win games in RBBL 1.”
What new challenges do you think you will face in the Italian league?
“Playing in a championship-defending team will present a challenge, the expectations are higher, and the training will be more intense.”
How do you think the styles of play will differ between the 99ers and Stefano?
“I think it will be different because at Stefano we have a lot of big guys, strong forwards who like to get inside the key. Stefano likes to press and has the ability to do so.”
What are your goals for next season?
“Obviously to win the Italian championship and Copa Italia but personally I would like to develop my skill set and scoring ability.”
What will you miss the most about the UK when you are abroad?
“I will definitely miss my family and friends, hopefully they will be able to come out and watch some games this season.”
Do you have any aspirations to re-enter the GB programme?
“Of course, who wouldn’t. At the moment the GB squad is very strong, and it is amazing what those boys are achieving! I am happy with the time I spent in the junior programme and I currently want to focus on enjoying the game by experiencing different places and cultures.”
How would you describe your style of play?
“I would like to think that I am a work horse. I play hard defence and look to assist my teammates on offense. A jack of all trades, master of none.”
Has anyone specifically influenced you to play the way you do?
“Many different players have, it’s hard to say specifically but probably Steve Serio. He is someone I aspire to play like.”
What piece of advice has stuck with you throughout your career?
“Stay calm and read the floor, basketball is as much of a mental game as it is a physical one.”
If you could do a training session with three other players from anywhere in the world male or female to improve your skills, which players would you choose and why?
“Patrick Anderson; purely because of his skill set. Dirk Passiwan; because of his shooting ability. Ian Sagar; because he is one of the best pick and roll players in the game.”
Thanks for your time mate!
Rollt. would like to thank Harry Blyth for the interview.
Harry Blyth Profile
Date of Birth: 30/09/1995 (aged 24)
Hometown: Upminster, East London
Started playing: 2013
GB U22 debut: 2015 Grenoble Invitational – Grenoble, France
Classification: 3.0
Disability: Spina Bifida
Future Club: ASD S Stefano, ITA (started September 2019)
Former Clubs:
_Frenford Falcons, GBR (2013-14)
_GLL & Aspire London Titans, GBR (2014-16, 2017-18)
_Essex Outlaws, GBR (2016-17)
_Köln 99ers, GER (2018-19)
Career Highlights:
_2017 U22 European Championships – Lignano Sabbidoro, Italy – Silver (GB)
_Qualifying for EuroLeague 1 Finals 2019 – Notwil, Switzerland – (Köln 99ers)
Interview: Dylan Cummings | Photo: Steffie Wunderl