DISCOVER THE AZEITALIA STORY
Ciao! I’m Cassandra Azevedo, and my story is woven through water polo, travel, and a deep love for Italian culture. Born in California to a family where water polo runs in our veins – my father, Rick Azevedo, an Olympic coach, and my brother, Tony Azevedo, a USA Olympic team silver medalist and 5 time Olympian – I found my own unique path in this beautiful sport.
Starting at age 8, water polo became my passport to the world. From competing professionally in Hungary to making Italy my home for the past 15+ years, I’ve discovered that the most valuable medals aren’t always the ones you wear around your neck – they’re the experiences that transform you.
Now, as the founder of AzeItalia, I combine my passion for water polo with my love for Italian culture, creating opportunities for athletes to grow both in and out of the pool. For over 13 years, I’ve been helping players discover what I learned: that water polo isn’t just about Olympic dreams or gold medals – it’s about the incredible journey, the friendships forged, and the unexpected paths that lead you to exactly where you’re meant to be.
Based in the picturesque coastal town of Camogli, I share my slice of Italian paradise with athletes from around the world, turning training trips into transformative experiences that go far beyond the pool.
WHAT IS AZEITALIA?
Born in 2010 in the picturesque coastal town of Camogli, AzeItalia emerged from a simple yet powerful vision: combining world-class water polo training with authentic Italian experiences. While watching my father coach teams here, I witnessed how Italy’s rich sporting tradition and cultural heritage created something magical for visiting athletes.
For over 13 years, AzeItalia has been more than just a training program – it’s a gateway to transformation. Here, you’ll train alongside Italian club teams, learning different playing styles while immersing yourself in the Mediterranean way of life. From morning practices in Camogli or nearby pools to evening scrimmages with local teams, every day brings new challenges and achievements.
But what makes AzeItalia truly special is the complete experience. Picture yourself making traditional Focaccia Formaggio between training sessions, hiking the stunning trails of Cinque Terre, exploring historic Florence, or simply enjoying gelato in Portofino’s picturesque harbor. These moments, shared with teammates and new friends from around the world, create memories that last a lifetime.
Now, in 2025, we’re excited to expand our unique blend of athletic development and cultural immersion to Malta, offering you even more opportunities to grow both as an athlete and as a global citizen.
At AzeItalia, we don’t just organize trips – we create experiences that transform young athletes, combining the passion of water polo with the magic of Mediterranean culture. Whether you’re seeking to elevate your game, explore new horizons, or simply experience the joy of playing water polo in one of the world’s most beautiful settings, your journey begins here.
Come to Italy, play with local teams, explore beautiful places like Camogli and the Cinque Terre, and taste authentic Italian cuisine. Experience different playing styles, make new friends, and live every day to the fullest. It’s an experience that will help you grow both in and out of the water.
Starting this year, you will also have the option to experience your trip in Malta.
WHY CHOOSE US?
With AzeItalia, you’re not just training, you’re discovering a whole new world. Every trip is personalized, and every training session is designed to help you grow. I’ll be by your side every step of the way, making sure you get the most out of this experience.
MY MOTTO?
‘Beyond the Pool, Beyond Borders’. At AzeItalia, we believe water polo is your passport to something greater. Every lap in an Italian pool, every scrimmage with a local team, every sunset over Camogli’s harbor – they’re all chapters in your story of growth. Here, you’re not just an athlete perfecting your game; you’re an explorer discovering new horizons.
Whether you’re a team seeking excellence, an individual chasing dreams, or a family creating memories, AzeItalia transforms water polo training into a journey of discovery. We’re not just developing better athletes; we’re cultivating global citizens who carry these experiences far beyond the pool.