Get ready, basketball fans! The PalaCalafiore in Pentimele is set to ignite on september 18th and 19th as it hosts the 49th edition of the sant’Ambrogio Trophy. This isn’t just any tournament; it’s one of Italy’s most enduring basketball traditions, a true testament to the sport’s enduring appeal.
The official kickoff for this highly anticipated event took place at the elegant “Italo Falcomatà” chandeliers’ salon in Palazzo San Giorgio. The ceremony was graced by the presence of Mayor Giuseppe Falcomatà, City Councilor for Sport and Tourism Giovanni Latella, CONI Regional President Tino Scopelliti, and Carlo Sant’Ambrogio, representing the family that has championed this tournament since its inception in 1970.
Born from a desire to honor the memory of Mario Sant’Ambrogio, a promising young basketball player whose life was cut tragically short, the trophy has as expanded its tribute to include Mario’s parents, Iliano and Enza, who were instrumental figures in Reggio’s basketball scene. This tournament is more than just a competition; it’s a vibrant party that bridges generations. This year’s lineup features the passionate Viola Reggio Calabria basketball, the very soul of local hoops, alongside Basket Barcelona, Bim Bum Bamket Rende, and Basket Academy Catanzaro. The best part? Admission is absolutely free,making it an accessible spectacle for all.
Mayor Falcomatà emphasized the trophy’s meaning, stating, The appointment with the Sant’ambrogio Trophy has always marked the beginning of the new competitive sporting season.
He added, Made in September, it is an opportunity to see the new rosters that are preparing to start the championship. It is a historical appointment that goes beyond the sporting event, a new hug with the Sant’Ambrogio family, who has given so much in the sports, civic, political and cultural fields, through difficult years.
Councilor Latella echoed this sentiment, highlighting the crucial role of sports leadership in the city’s basketball legacy. If this city has had basketball in Serie A for many years, it is thanks to sports managers who have given opportunities to many guys to play sports,
he remarked. Among these, in Santa Caterina, the Sant’Ambrogio family, which was a point of reference. today we can boast the presence of many sports facilities thanks to the work of the municipal governance and the redevelopments made, as in the case of the Palapentimele. This event also contributes to promoting tourism, bringing visitors and tourists to the city.
President Tino Scopelliti, a longtime admirer of the sport, shared his enthusiasm. Basketball is a discipline dear to me, to which many memories bind me,
he expressed. I congratulate the tenacity with which 49 editions have been carried out. I trust that Reggio basketball can return to Serie A and that the trophy continues to grow.
Carlo Sant’Ambrogio concluded the presentation with a forward-looking viewpoint. We start with humility and serenity from where we finished last year,
he said. The city, in this moment of sporting rebirth, asks us to be present and active, to remember our family members, to give a showcase to the Viola. We are happy to be the first to play in the redeveloped Palapentimele.
in a significant declaration, the trophy is set to be institutionalized, paving the way for enhanced economic support starting with its landmark 50th edition next year. This move ensures that this cherished tradition will continue to thrive for generations to come.
