Getting To Know: Dawid Hamiga

The academy question-and-answer series shines a light on some of the best upcoming talent at Watford, quizzing a selection of Young Hornets about their journey in and outside of football.

Next to take on the questions is highly-rated midfielder Dawid Hamiga.

The 17-year-old joined the Young Hornets in January 2023 having previously been on the books at Southern League Premier South side Beaconsfield Town. He has recently featured for Omer Riza’s Under-21 side after impressing as a trialist.

How would you describe your playing style?
I can play in central midfield, either as an eight or a 10, but I can also play out wide from both wings. I was scouted as a right-winger because I can cut inside.

Your footballing idol?
I would say Robert Lewandowski because I’m Polish and he’s an inspiration to me. His best attributes are shooting, a good touch and dribbling - they are three things which I try to incorporate into my game.

Biggest influence?
Definitely my parents. My dad has taken me to trials all around and has really influenced me. I would also say my coach from Beaconsfield Town - his name is Ash, and I would really like to thank him for his work. He helped me and he believed in me.

Most talented teammate?
That’s tricky because there are a lot of good players here. Adrian Blake, Tobi Adeyemo and Charlie Davis are three that have stood out. Blake is a really good winger and he knows how to beat players out wide. Adeyemo has played in the Championship and scored on his debut, and Davis is a really top player as well.

Favourite football memory?
I have a lot of good memories, but I would have to say signing for Watford earlier this year. I used to be here when I was younger, but I got released, so to come back three or four years later is a good feeling.

Your aims for the future?
Short-term I want to earn a professional contract at Watford, and then afterwards I’m aiming to be in the first-team and be a starter for the Under-21s. Those are my goals.

Best advice you’ve received?
Never give up, even when things aren’t going your way. For example, I didn’t get offered a place at other clubs when I was on trial, but I knew to never give up and I kept playing football and training hard.

Your job if you weren’t a footballer?
If I couldn’t do something within coaching, then I would like to own my own Polish restaurant because I love food. Somewhere in London would be really nice.

How would you rate yourself on FIFA?
Pace: 77 - I’m quite tall so short distances can be a little bit harder, but I’m fast on the ball.
Shooting: 81 - I can shoot with both feet, but I’m mainly left-footed.
Passing: 78 - I’ve got a good range of passing.
Dribbling: 84 - This is my best attribute.
Defending: 70 - I’m more than happy to help my team out defensively.
Physicality: 63 - I’m working on that in the gym.
OVERALL: 81