One of Nelson Suburbs most consistent performers this season, Ilan Mastricola-Simon, has revealed a heart problem has ruled out any hopes of a move to the Australian A-League next season.
The right back proved a gritty defender and switched to centre back when team injuries forced a positional shift in his debut year with the club.
But after training with the Suburbs U19’s, the Aussie import was sidelined after feeling a sharp pain in his chest.
“I had been ill a few times during the year. But this turned out to be an infection, Myocarditis, which is an inflammation of the heart,” says Ilan, who turns 20 next month.
“I just had to rest. I couldn’t do anything. It was a bit of a worry but I am on top of it now and feeling alright.”
It has complicated his plans for next year though as there had been interest from Australian clubs which had kept an eye on his form with Suburbs.
“I was looking at going back there. I had a few opportunities with A-League clubs but it was too soon to get back for the pre-season. The main thing for me was just getting healthy again.”
He is confident of being right for next year, but it won’t be in Nelson.
“I had a couple of offers in Christchurch and one in Wellington, but Auckland is the next logical move as I would like to push to play in the national league,” confirms Ilan.
A possibility is a shift to Auckland United which beat Suburbs in the Chatham Cup semi-finals.
“I enjoyed my time here, especially off the pitch. It was an important move for me, a bit different to what I was used to on the field but lots of learnings.” He has passed on his skills to local youngsters.
“I set up a programme coaching in primary schools and after school. I was just trying to give back as much as I could,” enthuses Ilan.
Suburbs co-coach ‘Skippy’ Stewart says the club continues to be a stepping-stone for players and they wish him well and a speedy recovery.
In the meantime, Ilan is working casual shifts in the Frontrunner store in Richmond.
“I enjoy retail. It is hard but in a different way.” After heading back to Tasmania for Christmas with his family, the footballer with Italian, English and Jamaican heritage will return to New Zealand in January.
Long term, Ilan wants to move back to Europe.
