Simone began swimming at the age of three and took up Para swimming in 2015 in Milan. He made his debut for Italy in 2017. He also competed in Para triathlon at the 2014 Italian Championships. His club affiliations include Polha Varese and GS Fiamme Oro in Italy.

Coaching and Influences

Simone is coached by Micaela Biava and Massimiliano Tosin. He cites Australian Para swimmer Matthew Cowdrey, Italian Para swimmer Federico Morlacchi, and US basketball player Kobe Bryant as his heroes. His coach Massimiliano Tosin and Federico Morlacchi have significantly influenced his career.

Achievements

One of Simone's most memorable achievements is winning gold in the S9 50m freestyle at the 2020 Paralympic Games in Tokyo. He was named Best Male Summer Athlete at the 2023 Para Sport Awards by the International Paralympic Committee. He has also received the Collare d'Oro al Merito Sportivo from the Italian National Olympic Committee multiple times.

Awards and Recognition

In 2019, Simone was awarded the Diamond of Fame Award as Para Athlete of the Year in Italy. The city of Milan presented him with the Ambrogino d'Oro award in the same year. Additionally, he was voted Best Male Swimmer at the 2019 World Championships in London.

Personal Philosophy

Simone believes that a person with a disability should not be defined by it. "The person with a disability is a person; it is not the disability that defines them," he says. He dislikes being famous for what has happened to him rather than for his achievements.

Pre-Competition Rituals

Before competitions, Simone listens to hip hop and electronic dance music to energise himself. After competitions, he prefers jazz and soul music to relax.

Year Down Under

In 2017, Simone spent a year in Sydney, Australia, where he continued his high school studies and prepared for the World Championships. This experience was transformative for him as it helped him grow as a person and understand how to achieve his goals.

Family Background

Simone's father Riccardo is a journalist who made a documentary titled 'I Pesci Combattenti' about the Italian Para swimming team before the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. This film introduced many people to Italian Para swimmers.

Future Ambitions

Looking ahead, Simone aims to compete at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris and alongside non-Para swimmers at the Olympic Games. He also hopes to become a prosthetic designer through his mechanical engineering studies. Additionally, he plans to publish a graphic novel or an illustration book.

Simone's journey from a young swimmer to an accomplished athlete is inspiring. His dedication to both sports and academics showcases his multifaceted talents and ambitions for the future.