What was your first job as a journalist?
A cub reporter on the news desk at my hometown paper.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes! My mum had one. I loved the sound of the keystrokes...
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Kermit the Frog (Sesame Street News Flash)
What does it mean to be a journalist?
To me, the realisation of a childhood ambition. I was the little boy that sat in front of the television with a pencil and notepad!
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
- still makes me chuckle now.
What's your favorite social network?
Twitter - doesn't every journalist reply that way?
Who do you wish followed you?
Even just one of my sporting heroes would be the biggest boost! Michael Johnson or Aly Raisman. Oh, or Francesco Totti.
Why did you become a journalist?
Because telling the story of those that trust you with their hearts and minds is both a huge thrill and an enormous privilege.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
I edited the newsletter! Later, at university, I wrote pieces about the colourful characters that illuminate Italian football.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
Telling the tale of my hometown's first Olympic gold medallist, who went to the same high school I did.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Talk to people. Do it face-to-face too. They're much more likely to confide in you if they know you're a decent human being first.
What's your favorite drink?
Coffee. A fuel for the mind and body!
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Taking in caffeine somewhere while reading the news. Either that, or seeking sunshine...
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
New York Times. El País. Gazzetta dello Sport (in that order).
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
That sport isn't important. I've seen the power it has to change lives and perceptions. Who wouldn't be inspired by that?
