Financial Challenges and Championship Updates: The Italian Baseball-Softball Federation Charts its Course
The Italian Baseball-Softball Federation (FIBS) faces a important financial hurdle in 2025. During its recent virtual meeting, the Federal Council, led by President Marco Mazzieri, revealed a €71,000 reduction in contributions from Sport and health compared to 2024. This news comes despite baseball’s return to the Olympic program, adding to the pressure on the institution.
Compounding the financial strain, Sport and Health has, for the first time, requested compensation for the use of FIBS’s facilities, estimated at around €360,000 annually.
Despite these challenges, the Federal Council focused on planning for the upcoming competitive season.
Championship Landscape:
The Council reviewed registrations for the 2025 championships across various categories. Notably, the A Baseball series saw 31 out of 32 eligible teams register, prompting the acceptance of Junior Alpina’s repechage request from the B series, bringing the total to 31 teams.
In Serie B Baseball, 25 registrations were received, falling short of the anticipated 32. Five repechage requests were submitted and approved, with San Martino Junior, Rho, San Lazzaro, Junior Pumas, and old Rags Lodi joining the league. The final composition of the championship is still under consideration.
The A1 Softball series welcomed all 10 eligible teams, while the A2 Softball series, with 11 registrations and two repechage requests, will be completed with the addition of Fiorentina, the top-ranked team according to the repechage parameters.
New Leadership and Appointments:
the Federal Council appointed a new CNA board and national designators to support President Marco Taurelli. fabrizio Fabrizi will oversee baseball as technical manager,while Dario Guido Fior will lead softball. Lorenzo Menicucci will serve as the national team designator for Baseball and B5, and Rodolfo Cristin will assume the same role for Softball and Baseball for the Blind. Daniele Carlo Vimercati completes the board.
The Council also approved the list of international baseball and softball referees for 2025 and appointed Giovanni Antonio Sanna as the contact person for the 2025 Regions Tournament. Sanna has already initiated discussions with the Sardinia Region regarding potential contributions.
The next Federal Council meeting is scheduled for January 24th during CON-X.
Navigating Choppy Waters: An Interview with Baseball Legend, Michele “Mike” Piazza
The Italian Baseball-Softball Federation (FIBS) is facing some serious headwinds this year. Major funding cuts, coupled with unexpected facility fees, have cast a shadow over the upcoming season.
To get a better understanding of the challenges ahead,we sat down with renowned baseball legend,Michele “Mike” Piazza,who,throughout his illustrious career,represented Italy on the international stage.
Moderator: mike, thanks for joining us today.Looking at the recent FIBS declaration, a €71,000 reduction in funding from Sport and Health, and an additional €360,000 fee for facility use, what are your initial thoughts?
Mike Piazza: Honestly, it’s concerning. These are notable financial blows for any association, especially considering the hurdles FIBS already faces in promoting baseball and softball in Italy. It seems like a paradox, right? Baseball is back in the Olympics, a moment that should fuel excitement and investment, yet we’re faced with these setbacks.
Moderator: Do you think the return of baseball to the Olympics, while positive, might also contribute to increased pressure on FIBS?
Mike Piazza: Absolutely. Expectations rise with higher visibility. Fans want to see results, they want to see Italy competing at the highest level. And that requires resources – coaching, training facilities, youth development programs. The federation needs the support to meet those expectations.
Moderator: The article also mentioned strong participation in the championship registrations for the upcoming season. That seems encouraging.
Mike Piazza: it definitely is. The passion for baseball and softball in Italy is undeniable. People want to play, to watch, to support their teams. FIBS needs to capitalize on that enthusiasm and find ways to engage both established and new fans.
Moderator: FIBS has made some key appointments, including a new CNA board and national designators. What are your thoughts on these changes?
mike Piazza: Bringing in fresh perspectives is always a good thing. It’s significant to have a mix of experience and new ideas, people who understand the grassroots level of the sport and those who can navigate the complex world of sports administration.
Moderator: What message do you have for young athletes aspiring to follow in your footsteps?
Mike Piazza: Nver give up on your dreams. Work hard, believe in yourself, and always remember that baseball is more than just a game. It’s about team spirit, discipline, and overcoming challenges.
Moderator: What do you foresee for the future of Italian baseball and softball?
Mike Piazza:
I remain optimistic. There’s raw talent in this country, an undeniable passion for the sport. It’s critical that FIBS finds creative solutions to address the financial challenges while nurturing that talent. The potential is there, it just needs the right support to flourish.
Moderator:
Thank you, Mike, for your time and insights. We certainly hope your optimism proves prescient.
let’s spark a conversation! What are your thoughts on the future of Italian baseball and softball? How can fans and supporters step up to help FIBS during these challenging times? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
