NAPLES, Italy – The historic Istituto Giovanni Pontano in Naples is adding a new dimension to its 150-year legacy: a Liceo Scientifico Sportivo (Sports Science High School) set to launch in the 2026-2027 academic year. The initiative aims to bridge the gap between athletic pursuit and academic excellence, offering young athletes a pathway to excel in both arenas. The new program will be officially unveiled this Thursday, March 12th, at 10:00 AM CET at the school’s historic Palazzo Cariati location, situated on Corso Vittorio Emanuele 580-581 and will feature appearances from prominent figures in Italian sport, institutional representatives, and sports journalists.
The Istituto Pontano, deeply rooted in the city’s history, has been a cornerstone of Neapolitan education since 1876. Its current location, Palazzo Cariati, became its permanent home in 1922 following a significant restoration, according to the institute’s website. The addition of the sports-focused curriculum represents a forward-thinking approach to education, recognizing the increasing demands placed on young athletes.
Olympic Champions and Sports Leaders to Attend Launch
The launch event promises a strong showing of Italian sporting luminaries. Olympic swimming champion Massimiliano Rosolino and Olympic judo gold medalist Pino Maddaloni are confirmed attendees, alongside Giancarlo Brancale, President of the Circolo Canottieri Napoli, Sergio Roncelli, President of CONI Campania (the Italian National Olympic Committee’s regional branch), and Giorgio Marciano, a world saber fencing champion and Pontano alumnus. Representatives from the sports journalism world are also expected to be present.
Partnership with Circolo Canottieri Napoli
A key component of the Liceo Scientifico Sportivo will be a partnership with the Circolo Canottieri Napoli, a leading sports club in the region. Students enrolled in the program will conduct their practical sports activities at the Circolo Canottieri Napoli facilities. The curriculum will initially focus on three core disciplines: sailing, swimming, and water polo, as well as rowing. This collaboration provides students with access to high-quality coaching and resources, enhancing their athletic development.
The new Liceo Scientifico Sportivo is designed to address a common challenge faced by young athletes – the difficulty of balancing rigorous training schedules with academic commitments. The program’s structure integrates scientific education with sports-related competencies, including courses in sports law and economics, advanced English language training, and opportunities to obtain specialized sports certifications. The goal is to provide a holistic education that prepares students for success both on and off the field.
“Sport is a School of Life”
Pasquale Antonio Serra, President of the Istituto Pontano, articulated the vision behind the project, stating, “Too often, young athletes are asked to choose between training, and study. At Pontano, we want to break this pattern. Sport is a great school of life, but it is cultural preparation that allows you to win even outside the field.” This sentiment underscores the institute’s commitment to fostering well-rounded individuals who are equipped to succeed in all aspects of life.
Palazzo Cariati, the historic building housing the Istituto Pontano, has a rich history itself. Originally built in the 16th century, it was commissioned by the Spinelli family and underwent significant renovations in the 18th century, including the addition of a terrace adorned with busts of family members. The building was acquired by the Jesuits in 1921, who oversaw its restoration and established it as the home of the Istituto Pontano in 1922, a legacy that continues today. The palazzo’s location between piazzetta Cariati and Corso Vittorio Emanuele makes it a prominent landmark in Naples.
The launch of the Liceo Scientifico Sportivo at the Istituto Pontano represents a significant investment in the future of Italian athletics and education. By providing a supportive environment where young athletes can pursue their passions without sacrificing their academic goals, the institute hopes to cultivate a new generation of champions – not just in sport, but in life.
The official presentation on Thursday will provide further details on the curriculum, admission requirements, and the long-term vision for the program. Interested students and families can find more information on the Istituto Pontano’s website: https://istitutopontano.it/.
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