Il Health district came alive with a special event to honor the seventieth anniversary of Gold Flamesthe sports group of Police. The evening, characterized by a concert show, underlined the importance ofsocial integration and of thesporting commitment in a reality that has been experiencing a significant transformation for years. Thanks to the creation of a social gymhundreds of young people and women in the neighborhood can practice sports, distancing themselves from difficult situations.
A project that changes lives: the women’s gym Gold Flames
In the 2018the presence of Gold Flames In the Health district it started with the opening of a boxing and judo gyminitially located in sacristy of the Basilica of Santa Maria della Sanità. Since then, the structure has found space in alarger areal’former Mendicicomio dei Cristallinidal 2020. This initiative was wisely thought out by the then parish priest Don Antonio Loffredowho conceived the project of integrating sport and community, calling on the athletes of the Gold Flames as instructors.
The project demonstrated how thesporting activity can be a powerful tool for change, allowing hundreds of kids to practice judo and boxing for free. This approach has made it possible to offer valid alternatives to young people, distracting them from non-constructive activities and, at the same time, giving them the opportunity to develop physical skills e mentally stimulating. Many of these kids, now adults, have become teachers themselves, thus creating a virtuous circle that generates new opportunities.
In addition to the disciplines already active, from 2022 was introduced onclimbingas well as courses self-defense for the women of the neighborhood. This expansion of the project represents a significant step forward towardsinclusion and the community strengtheningoffering mothers, grandmothers and women of all ages the opportunity to participate in sporting activities, as well as the chance to unite families and communities through sport. The continuous management of the gym even during theestatea period in which schools are closed, further highlights its social importance and positive impact on the lives of residents.
An event full of emotions and music
The celebration evening was hosted by Rosalia Porcarowhich masterfully intertwined significant interventions and musical pieces performed by sanitary assemblyunder the direction of the maestro Paolo Acunzo. This ensemble, made up of young people from the neighborhood, delighted the audience with a repertoire of symphonic classical e soundtracksat the same time telling stories and successes linked to the commitment of Gold Flames In the Ward.
The moments of recognition dealt with the important history of this sporting reality, revealing how the work of Gold Flames does not stop at successes on the pitch, but also extends tosocial impact. Among the various tributes, videos were shown celebrating the Olympic victories of the group’s athletes. An expression of gratitude also came from commissioner of Naples, Maurizio Agricolawho underlined how the Gold Flames represent one double-sided medal: on the one hand sporting successes, on the other a constant commitment to social issues.
The commissioner also shared the approach adopted in Ward and its plans to replicate that model in other areas, such as a Caivanothrough the management of Delphinia Centerfocusing on legality and on prevention as a priority. The evening finally reached its climax on the notes of the famous song “Era de’ Maggio”, giving an atmosphere of celebrations e hope.
A rebirth that continues: the words of the parish priest
What made the event even more exciting was the intense reflection of the parish priest Healthcare, Don Luigi Calemme. He recalled how the district is going through a phase of true rebirth, just think of the transformation process that has been underway for over a decade now. The presence of Gold Flames played a fundamental role in this change, and as evidenced by don Calemmethree words dear to Pope Francis—inclusion, ransom e team spirit—are particularly relevant to the current context of the neighborhood.
The parish priest expressed particular gratitude towards those who worked passionately on this project, citing in particular Luca Piscopocoordinator of Gold Flamese Marco Badolatiproximity educator. Both represent key figures who, thanks to their dedication, have contributed to creating an environment of support and guidance for young people. The approach to the fragility of the territory is what makes this project so precious and uniquedemonstrating how sport can actually transform lives and give life to new dreams.
