facing Financial Headwinds: FIBS Navigates Funding Cuts and New Costs
The Italian Federation of Baseball and Softball (FIBS) is grappling with significant financial challenges as it prepares for 2025. During the fourth session of the Federal Council, held virtually on December 20th, President Marco Mazzieri delivered concerning news regarding funding from Sports and Health, the Italian government body responsible for sports.
despite baseball and softball’s return to the Olympic program, FIBS is facing a reduction of €71,000 in contributions for 2025 compared to 2024. Adding to the financial strain, Sports and Health has, for the first time, requested compensation for the use of its premises by FIBS.This unexpected cost is estimated at approximately €360,000 per year.
These financial hurdles come at a critical time for FIBS as it seeks to build on the momentum generated by the sport’s Olympic resurgence. The federation will need to explore creative solutions and potential new revenue streams to ensure its continued growth and success.
A look Ahead: 2025 Championship Preparations
The conversation shifted to the upcoming competitive landscape and the highly anticipated 2025 championships. Organizers provided a detailed breakdown of registrations across various competition categories, excluding entry-level divisions which are still accepting applications. They also reviewed the number of repechage requests received, offering a glimpse into the intense competition expected for coveted spots in the championships.Serie A Baseball Welcomes Junior Alpina After Catalan Withdrawal
The Italian Baseball Federation has announced a change to the serie A roster for the upcoming season. Despite 31 teams initially registering out of a possible 32, the withdrawal of Catalan after the registration deadline left a vacancy. The Federal Council, in response, has granted repechage to Junior Alpina, a team previously competing in Serie B. This decision brings the total number of teams in Serie A to 31 for the new season.
Serie B Baseball: A Look at the 2025 Season
The upcoming Serie B Baseball season is shaping up to be an exciting one, with a surge of interest from teams eager to compete. While the league anticipates 32 teams, with 30 eligible for the 2024 season, only 25 registrations where initially received. This prompted five teams to submit repechage requests, hoping to secure a spot in the 2025 championship.The Federal Council carefully reviewed these requests and granted admission to five promising teams: San Martino Junior, Rho, Saint Lazarus, Junior pumas, and Old Rags Lodi. This influx of new talent highlights the growing popularity of baseball in Italy.The council is currently deliberating the final composition of the championship, ensuring a balanced and competitive league for the 2025 season.Serie A Softball: A Look at the 2023 Season Lineup
The upcoming Serie A Softball season is shaping up to be an exciting one,with full rosters confirmed for both the top-tier Serie A1 and the competitive Serie A2. All ten eligible teams have registered for Serie A1, promising a thrilling battle for the championship title.Meanwhile, Serie A2 saw eleven initial registrations, with two teams requesting repechage, a process allowing teams to appeal for inclusion based on specific criteria. The Federal Council, recognizing the desire for a complete 12-team league in Serie A2, has granted the repechage request of Fiorentina. This decision, based on the team’s strong performance according to the established repechage parameters, ensures a full and competitive field for the upcoming season.CNA Charts Course for the Future with New Leadership Appointments
Following the accomplished conclusion of the championships, the Italian National baseball and Softball Federation (CNA) has wasted no time in solidifying its leadership team for the next chapter. Newly elected President Marco Taurelli has assembled a skilled and experienced group of individuals to guide the organization forward.
Fabrizio Fabrizi, a respected figure in the baseball community, will take on the crucial role of baseball technical manager. Dario Guido Fior,equally renowned in the softball world,will assume the same position for softball. Lorenzo Menicucci will serve as national designator for both baseball and B5, while Rodolfo Cristin will oversee Softball and Baseball for the Blind. Completing the leadership circle is Daniele Carlo Vimercati, who joins the board of directors, bringing his valuable expertise to the table.
This strategic restructuring of CNA’s leadership reflects the organization’s commitment to fostering growth and excellence across all its disciplines. With a strong team in place, CNA is poised to build on its recent successes and continue to elevate Italian baseball and softball on the national and international stage.
## International Umpires ready for 2025 Season The world of baseball and softball is gearing up for 2025, and that includes the officials who ensure fair play on the field.The Federal Council recently gave its stamp of approval to the roster of international umpires who will be calling balls and strikes next year.This comprehensive list highlights the dedication and expertise required to officiate at the highest levels of these beloved sports.Giovanni Antonio Sanna, ultimately tasked with coordinating the 2025 regions Tournament, had already begun laying the groundwork for the event. Working in tandem with the former Federal President, Sanna had initiated discussions with the Sardinia Region to secure necessary funding and support. This early engagement highlights Sanna’s commitment to ensuring a successful tournament.Mark Your Calendars: The Federal Council Convenes for CON-X on January 24th
The Federal Council is gearing up for its next crucial session, scheduled to take place on January 24th during the highly anticipated CON-X event.
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the Italian Federation of Baseball and Softball (FIBS) is navigating choppy financial waters despite experiencing a surge in popularity and competitive spirit. While the return of baseball and softball to the Olympic program promised a boost for the sport, FIBS is facing significant financial headwinds going into 2025.
Funding Cuts and New Costs Threaten FIBS’ Future
President Marco Mazzieri delivered sobering news during the Federal Council meeting on December 20th. FIBS is confronting a €71,000 reduction in funding from Sports and Health, the Italian government body responsible for sports. Adding insult to injury, FIBS is now being charged an estimated €360,000 annually for the use of Sports and Health’s facilities, a cost previously nonexistent.
These financial challenges come at a critical juncture for FIBS as it aims to capitalize on the Olympic momentum. The federation must now explore creative solutions and diversify its revenue streams to ensure its continued growth and success.
Competitive Landscape Remains Vibrant Despite Financial Hurdles
Despite the financial hurdles,the competitive spirit within FIBS remains strong.
Serie A Baseball: The league will see 31 teams competing this season, with Junior Alpina earning repechage entry following Catalan’s withdrawal.
Serie B Baseball: Initial registrations fell short, but the Federal Council granted repechage to five promising teams: San Martino junior, Rho, Saint Lazarus, Junior Pumas, and Old Rags Lodi, ensuring a field of 30 teams for the 2025 season. This influx of new teams highlights the growing popularity of baseball in Italy.
* Serie A Softball: Both Serie A1 and Serie A2 are set for a full season, with 10 and 12 teams respectively.
Looking Ahead: Leadership and Innovation
With freshly appointed leadership under President marco Taurelli,FIBS needs to balance its commitment to fostering a vibrant competitive landscape with navigating the financial realities. Innovative fundraising strategies and potential sponsorships are likely to be prioritized to ensure a lasting future for italian baseball and softball.
We’ll continue to track these developments closely and provide updates on the future of FIBS. The coming months will be crucial for the federation as it charts a course towards a thriving future.