Between Pools and Cities – Tamás Sedlmayer on Life as a Professional Water Polo Player in Hungary, Germany & Italy (Part

Episode von Waterpolo Expert Talk von Andreas Schulze-Kopp · 27. September 2025 · 28 min

In Part 2 of the conversation with Tamás Sedlmayer, Champions League winner with Ferencváros, we focus on the reality of living as a professional water polo player across different countries — from Hungary to Germany and Italy — and how club culture, travel, lifestyle and expectations shape an athlete’s career.

Tamás shares his honest impressions of the German Bundesliga, explaining why for many years the title race often came down to Hannover and Spandau, while clubs like Potsdam were starting to change the system by developing young talent. He also reflects on the Italian league, which he describes as being very close to the Hungarian level in terms of quality and competitiveness — even against teams from the lower half of the table.

A major topic is travel and professionalism:

– Why Italian teams often travel one day early

– How player recovery is protected

– And why that level of organization impressed him deeply

We then move into the lifestyle differences between Budapest, Berlin and Trieste — from city size and transportation to climate, mobility and everyday rhythm. Tamás explains why Trieste became his favorite city to live in, thanks to its compact size, Mediterranean atmosphere and quality of life.

Another important part of the episode is about mental strength and life advice for young athletes. Tamás speaks openly about setbacks, difficult moments and why it is crucial to always search for light even in the darkest situations. He emphasizes that mental toughness is just as important as physical strength for a long and successful career.

We also talk about:

– Returning to Hungary with a completely new, young team

– Leadership as one of the oldest and most experienced players

– Realistic goals for the upcoming season (Top 8 ambition)

– Building chemistry in a newly formed squad

– His personal quick-fire round: favorite city, music routines, tennis as a second sport, Italian vs. Hungarian food

Topics of this episode:

– Germany vs. Italy vs. Hungary water polo leagues

– Professional travel & recovery standards

– Lifestyle as a pro athlete in Europe

– Budapest, Berlin & Trieste compared

– Leadership in young teams

– Mental resilience & life philosophy

– Advice for young athletes

– Team building in transition seasons

– Pressure vs. privilege as a senior player

This episode is a must-listen for young players, international athletes and coaches who want to understand the real everyday life behind a professional water polo career in Europe.

🔗 More about the podcast: https://www.schulzekopp.de

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