By In an exclusive interview with Danilo Orsi, Crawley Town’s star striker, he opens up about his unconventional path from non-league football to the EFL.
Growing up in north London, Orsi never envisioned a career as a professional footballer. He juggled semi-professional football with an IT job in the City, content with the balance he had struck. However, a six-week stint in America for a football tournament changed the trajectory of his life.
Encouraged by his mother to seize the opportunity, Orsi ventured to the US, where he ended up staying for three-and-a-half years. Studying business management and playing football for Eastern Florida State College, he gained invaluable experiences on and off the pitch. Despite not directly interacting with legends like Ronaldo, encounters with former Brazil international Kleberson left a lasting impression.
Upon his return to the UK, Orsi resumed his football career in non-league football while working for his uncle’s plumbing firm. His standout performances in the National League earned him a move to League Two side Harrogate, a moment he describes as one of his proudest achievements.
Inspired by the rise of players like Jamie Vardy, Orsi set his sights high, aiming to replicate their journeys from non-league to professional football’s upper echelons.
After subsequent spells with Grimsby and Boreham Wood, Orsi found himself at Crawley Town, where he has flourished under manager Scott Lindsey. Lindsey’s unwavering support and belief in Orsi’s abilities have allowed him to thrive, leading to impressive goal-scoring stats and recognition as Crawley’s PFA Community Champion for his charitable endeavors.
As Crawley prepares for the League Two play-off semi-final against MK Dons, Orsi reflects on his journey with pride and excitement for what lies ahead. With the dream of promotion to League One within reach, Orsi’s journey from non-league obscurity to EFL stardom serves as an inspiring tale of perseverance, dedication, and seizing opportunities.
