The Judo Varesino club, under the leadership of Maurizio Volpi, is celebrating two significant milestones: the 40th anniversary of its sports society and Volpi’s 50 years dedicated to the martial art on the tatami. The dual anniversaries highlight the club’s deep roots in the Varano Borghi community and its founder’s lifelong commitment to judo as both a sport and an educational tool, Varese News reported.
Volpi, who also serves as the mayor of Varano Borghi, began his judo journey as a student at the Collegio Gallio, training on the tatami of the Kodokan in Como under the guidance of master Poletti. His formation continued at the Judo Bu-Sen gymnasium in Varese with master Marano, where he built the foundation for his career as an athlete, coach, and administrator. The club’s origins trace directly to Volpi’s efforts in 1986 when he founded the Judo Bu-Sen society in Varano Borghi, which has since evolved into the present-day Judo Varesino.
Volpi’s Path from First Dan to 5th Dan Honorary
1984 was a key year for Volpi; he earned his first-degree black belt, his coaching certification, and his qualifications as a referee. These credentials marked the formal start of his multifaceted role in the judo world. Over the decades, his career has included officiating at national and international competitions and serving as the president of the regional judo technical commission for the Italian Sports Center (CSI).
The culmination of Volpi’s five decades of work was the recent conferment of a 5th-degree black belt ad honorem. This honorary distinction recognizes his extensive time on the tatami, his development of athletes, and his dedication to promoting the social values of judo. His professional journey also includes specialization in sports management, training for teaching individuals with disabilities, and certification as a MOVI-MENTE instructor for children aged 3 to 6. Inclusivity remains a core principle for the society, with integrated programs allowing children with disabilities to train alongside their peers.
Judo is not just a sporting practice, but an educational tool capable of accompanying children, young people, and adults in their growth, teaching fundamental values such as respect, loyalty, self-control, and solidarity.
According to Verbanonews.it, this philosophy has been the guiding force behind the club’s growth and its community-focused approach.
A Legacy of Generations and School Outreach
Since its inception in 1986, the Judo Varesino society has registered over 2,500 athletes. The club's impact is shown by the multi-generational bond it has fostered; many athletes who trained in Varano Borghi have since enrolled their own children, creating a lasting connection to the club and its mission. The society’s influence extends beyond its walls into local schools, where Volpi has initiated free judo courses for kindergarten, primary, secondary, and high school students. The goal is to introduce the discipline and instill a culture of fair play and sportsmanship.
This commitment to community values has been formally recognized. The CSI of Varese awarded the society a certificate of merit as “Promoter of CSI Values in the Territory” and the “Le nostre colonne” prize. Additional accolades have come from ACES Europe and ACES Italia for the social impact of its activities, as noted by both Varese News and Verbanonews.it.
Competitive Success on the National Stage
The Judo Varesino's competitive achievements show why it is a leading club in Italy.
Today, the facility in Varano Borghi offers a range of courses catering to different age groups and skill levels, from introductory classes for young children to adult sessions, competitive training, and self-defense courses, solidifying its role as a comprehensive judo hub in the region.
What are the key milestones of Judo Varesino?
The club celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2026, founded by Maurizio Volpi in 1986. Its founder, Maurizio Volpi, is marking 50 years of practice in the sport, having started his journey in the early 1980s.
Who is Maurizio Volpi?
Maurizio Volpi is the founder and leader of Judo Varesino, a 5th-degree black belt ad honorem, and the mayor of Varano Borghi. He has been a central figure in Italian judo for decades as an athlete, coach, referee, and administrator.
What national titles has Judo Varesino won?
In 2025, the club was named the best society in Italy in both competitive and non-competitive categories. In 2026, it secured second place nationally in the non-competitive division and third place in the competitive division.
How does Judo Varesino support the community?
The club offers free judo programs in local schools and promotes inclusivity by integrating athletes with disabilities into its regular training groups. It has received awards for its social impact from organizations like ACES Europe and the CSI.
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