Naples and Roccapiemonte, Italy – A recent training session of the “Generazione Alfa” and “Fenice” Youth Territorial Program brought together young archers, personal coaches, and technical staff from the Campania and Basilicata regions. The intensive three-day event, coordinated by FITARCO Campania, focused on fostering technical, physical, and cultural growth among the participating athletes.
The program, held from January 16th to 18th, emphasized a unified approach to athlete development. At the ASD Arcieri Rocca di San Quirico in Roccapiemonte, athletes worked alongside their personal coaches, collaborating with the national technical staff to refine individual techniques. A key takeaway from the session was the importance of a shared technical language within the sport. Establishing a common vocabulary, organizers believe, will create continuity, bridge gaps, and allow athletes to thrive within a consistent and recognizable system, regardless of their training environment.
Simplicity was another cornerstone of the “Alfa & Fenice” project. This wasn’t about oversimplification, but rather a focus on fundamental skills, correct form, posture, and body awareness. From athletic preparation to shooting activities, the emphasis was on clear, repeatable, and sustainable methodologies. The athletes themselves were central to the session, participating in on-field activities, physical assessments, stability and proprioception exercises, and reflective discussions about their training regimens. Through guided work and technical questionnaires, the young archers were encouraged to develop awareness, curiosity, and responsibility towards their athletic journeys. The primary goal wasn’t achieving a high score, but rather fostering psychomotor and personal growth.
Cooperation proved to be a vital element throughout the program. The success of “Alfa & Fenice” relied on collaboration between the technical staff, personal coaches, administrators, and local communities. This collaborative spirit involved the active participation of all components of the archery movement in the region.
The training session benefited from the contributions of the national technical staff, including Matteo Bisiani, Matteo Uggeri, Claudia Mandia, and Jacopo Cimmarrusti. Lucia Nocerino coordinated the regional efforts for Campania, while personal coaches Giovanni Palmieri, Carmine Giordano, Sergio Brogna, Rita Troncone, Silvia Turrini, Alessandro Maresca, and Aniello Liovero played an active role in the training process. From Basilicata, Giovanni Lasalvia, Daniele Miglionico, and Marcello Silletti also contributed their expertise. Representatives from the Regional Councils of Campania and Basilicata, including presidents Domenico Del Piano and Nicola Taddei, Technical Representative Sergio Crisafi, and Athlete Representative Antonio De Lucia, were also in attendance.
A concluding briefing underscored the importance of a coach’s role extending beyond technical instruction to encompass a strong educational dimension, particularly when working with young athletes. The FITARCO Campania Regional Committee expressed its gratitude to the Basilicata Regional Delegation, the athletes, and the coaches for their participation and for contributing to the spirit of sharing and cooperation.
Participating Athletes
Campania Region: Roberta Cardinale, Biagio Cerlino, Marco Colarusso, Andrea De Masi, Viviana De Rosa, Rosa Montella, Rocco Petrollino, Jacopo Riitano, Anna Lucariello, Michela Rosselli, Luigi Baldoni, Matteo Senatore, Alfonso Buondonno.
Basilicata Region: Vincenzo Iovanni, Guido Lipani, Cristian Pace, Antonio Silletti, Giulia Minutiello.
This program represents a significant investment in the future of archery in Southern Italy. By prioritizing a holistic approach to athlete development – encompassing technical skill, physical conditioning, and personal growth – FITARCO Campania and Basilicata are laying a strong foundation for continued success. The emphasis on shared language and collaborative coaching methods aims to create a more unified and supportive environment for young archers as they progress in the sport.
The focus on simplicity, working on fundamentals, and listening to the body is a reminder that even in a technically demanding sport like archery, the core principles of athletic development remain paramount. For aspiring archers, this session offered a valuable opportunity to learn from experienced coaches and peers, and to develop the skills and mindset necessary to reach their full potential.
The next steps for these young athletes will likely involve continued training with their personal coaches, participation in regional and national competitions, and further opportunities to refine their skills and compete at higher levels. FITARCO Campania and Basilicata will continue to monitor their progress and provide support as they navigate their archery journeys.
For more information on FITARCO Campania’s activities and upcoming events, visit FITARCO Campania’s website. You can also locate updates on FITARCO’s national website at FITARCO’s website.
What are your thoughts on youth development programs in archery? Share your comments below!
