Biography
Alberto Malo i Navío, born on April 3, 1964, in Sant Boi de Llobregat, is a former Spanish rugby union player. In Catalonia, his name is often spelled Albert Malo. Standing at 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) and weighing 220 lb (100 kg), Malo played primarily as a flanker and number eight. He is widely regarded as one of the best Spanish rugby players ever. Malo holds a degree in Direction and Management of Sports Entities and a Master in Economic Direction of Sports Entities from the University of Barcelona.
Teams Played For and Years
- UE Santboiana: 1975-1990, 1991-2000
- Freyberg RC (New Zealand): 1990-1991
International Caps
Alberto Malo earned 64 caps for the Spain national rugby team from 1986 to 1999, scoring a total of 9 points. He captained the national team and played a pivotal role in the 1999 Rugby World Cup, participating in two matches.
Most Important Moments in His Sports Career
- Early Start: Malo began his rugby career at UE Santboiana at the age of 10 and was promoted to the first team at 17.
- Season Abroad: In 1990-91, he played for Freyberg RC in New Zealand, invited by Bruce Hemara, who later became his coach at UE Santboiana.
- National Achievements:
- Spanish League Titles: Won five times in 1983-84, 1986-87, 1988-89, 1995-96, and 1996-97.
- Spanish Copas del Rey: Won in 1989 and 2000.
- Iberian Cups: Won in 1988 and 1989.
- International Representation: Represented Spain 64 times, captaining the team in the 1999 Rugby World Cup.
Career Highlights
- Spanish Rugby Leagues:
- 1983-84
- 1986-87
- 1988-89
- 1995-96
- 1996-97
- Spanish Copas del Rey:
- 1989
- 2000
- Iberian Cups:
- 1988
- 1989
Post-Rugby Career
After retiring from professional rugby, Alberto Malo focused on sports management and continued contributing to the sport. His biography, “Albert Malo. Un Catalán en la Élite del Rugby Internacional,” written by Gloria Llorente, was published in 2004.
Alberto Malo’s legacy in rugby is marked by his skill, dedication, and leadership on the field, making him a true icon in Spanish and Catalan rugby history.