Italian-Canadian Randy Gazzola is currently juggling between an intense schedule, family life with three small children and big goals with the Italian national team.
“Leo and Isabell keep us on our toes,” said Vienna Capitals defender Randy Gazzola in an interview with “Crown newspaper“. Together with his wife Michelle, the 32-year-old has been the proud father of twins for over a year. Daughter Camilla, the eldest of the three, celebrated her fourth birthday just a few days ago.
The Gazzolas spent the first years of the family’s life in Asiago in northern Italy – where Randy played for several seasons. “I played in Asiago because one of the requirements for moving to another country is that you have to be under contract in Italy for at least two years,” explains the defender.
Olympics in sight
The native Canadian with Italian roots has already played a few games for the Italian national team. Now he’s hoping for the big stage: “It would of course be something very special to be able to represent my country at the Olympic Games,” says Gazzola. With his experience from the ICE Hockey League and his physically stable style of play, the defender is considered an important building block in Italy’s development program towards the Olympics.
Everyday dad life and team solidarity
Away from the ice, Gazzola and Caps captain Linden Vey not only share a passion for ice hockey – but also for their families. “We exchange ideas a lot, but not because of his participation in the 2018 Olympics, but because he also has three children under the age of four,” smiles the defender.
The family focus is also evident in the young talent: Both Gazzola’s and Vey’s children already play in the Caps youth program. “My wife and I sit in the stands with Linden and his wife and cheer on our children – that’s wonderful.”
Image: Manfred Szieber
