Every week, Carlo and I bump into each other at training – sometimes before, sometimes after, or occasionally even during one of my matches on Friday nights when he’s the referee. And when he’s the one in charge, I have this fun little routine of sneaking in a left-hand attack, which (I must say) has earned me a point each time! It’s become our little “onderonsje,” a playful connection. But today, I’m stepping away from the court to share something different: Carlo’s five favorites! Turns out, we have way more in common than just volleyball.
Favorite Movie: Carlo has a deep appreciation for movies that balance depth with humor, or those that venture into surreal territory. His recent picks include Trenque Lauquen (Argentina, 2022), La Chimera (Italy, 2023), and The Monk and the Gun (Bhutan, 2023). “I like when a movie is profound and yet funny, or when it’s just surreal,” he shares. Sounds like the perfect film marathon for anyone who’s into a little bit of everything!
Favorite Music: If you ever need to get pumped up, Carlo’s go-to band is Tool. “If I can solve their songs, I can solve any puzzle,” he says. That’s a pretty solid way of looking at it! He’s also a huge fan of Caparezza, an Italian singer whose lyrics are so complex, Carlo wishes everyone could experience them in Italian. I totally get that — the nuances of language can make music come alive in a whole new way.
Favorite Food: Ah, the classic question: what’s your favorite food? Carlo keeps it simple yet delicious with his love for pizza — who can blame him? But here’s the surprise: he’s also a fan of kering tempeh, a dish he often whips up to impress his guests. It’s the perfect combo of tasty and practical — the kind of dish that leaves people wondering, “How did he do that?”
Favorite Holiday Destination: Unlike many who dream of sunny beaches, Carlo thrives in cooler climates. “I don’t do well in hot weather,” he admits. His ideal vacation spot? Somewhere nestled in the mountains, ideally near a lake or river. That way, if the temperature creeps up to 25 degrees, he can take a refreshing dip. Sounds like the perfect escape to me!
Favorite Free Time Activity: These days, most of Carlo’s free time goes into fixing up his new apartment in Rotterdam (he’s officially a Rotterdammer now!). But, when he gets a moment to relax, he indulges in a bit of drumming. “It’s a good way to unwind,” he says, although I’m sure his neighbors don’t mind the occasional drumbeat!
Favorite Book: As a thoughtful reader, Carlo recommends The Dispossessed by Ursula K. Le Guin. It’s a profound exploration of societal norms, wrapped in a compelling science fiction setting. “A great thought exercise,” Carlo calls it, and I’m inclined to agree.
So, what’s this book about?
‘There was a wall. It did not look important – even a child could climb it. But the idea was real. Like all walls it was ambiguous, two-faced. What was inside it and what was outside it depended upon which side of it you were on…’
Shevek is brilliant scientist who is attempting to find a new theory of time – but there are those who are jealous of his work, and will do anything to block him. So he leaves his homeland, hoping to find a place of more liberty and tolerance. Initially feted, Shevek soon finds himself being used as a pawn in a deadly political game.
With powerful themes of freedom, society and the natural world’s influence on competition and co-operation, THE DISPOSSESSED is a true classic of the 20th century. Sooooo, I added it to my, already-way-too-long, ‘to-read’ list.
So there you have it! Beyond being a skilled referee, Carlo is a man of great taste in movies, music, food, and more. Who knew we shared such similar interests outside of volleyball? I love discovering these little gems about the people we see every week on the court. And hey, I may just try out some kering tempeh myself soon — it sounds like a crowd-pleaser!
