MATEX Marabadminton Academy: Ready to Reclaim the Throne
The MATEX Marabadminton Academy embarks on a new quest for the Serie A Badminton championship this weekend.After narrowly missing the title in 2021, 2023, and 2024, and achieving a historic victory at the 2023 Club European Championships, the sardinian squad enters the 2025 season with a revamped lineup, poised to aim for the top.
While stars Gianna Stiglich and Malena Norrman, key figures in the Oviedo triumph of 2023, have moved on to Modena and Brescia respectively, the Maracalagonis-based team has emerged as a dominant force in the transfer market. The acquisition of Julien Maio from reigning champions BC Milano and Lea Palermo forms a world-class mixed doubles pairing. Joining them are rising Danish talent Benedicte Sillassen and Inés Castillo, who represented Peru at the 2024 Paris Olympics.The team boasts a strong core of returning players, including four-time Italian champion Christopher Vittoriani, experienced Danish duo Christoffer Holm and Ann-Sofie Husher, promising youngster Adriano Viale, and national team prospects Matteo Massetti and Thomas Bianchi.
Adding to the intrigue, the team will face its first challenge without head coach Rosario Maddaloni, who remained in Cagliari for the birth of his daughter, Aurora, on Friday night. It’s a fittingly auspicious start to a new chapter.
The opening weekend will see the Marabadminton Academy face off against formidable opponents in Malles, Alto Adige. On Saturday, they will take on Modena at 1:30 PM, followed by a clash with Chiari at 5:00 PM. sunday’s schedule features a highly anticipated rematch against BC Milano at 9:00 AM, a repeat of the 2024 championship final.
“In a league where at least eight out of ten teams have strengthened their rosters for 2025, highlighting the escalating technical level,” observes Professor Andrea Delpin, president of the regional badminton federation, “the Sardinian team faces three demanding encounters in the opening weekend. Saturday’s matches against Modena, where former player Gianna Stiglich will undoubtedly seek to outmaneuver her former teammates, and against Chiari, featuring Olympic athlete Giovanni Toti, will be crucial tests.Though, Sunday’s showdown against reigning champions BC Milano, with whom the Sardinian team has forged a fierce rivalry as ending their seven-year dominance in 2021, promises to be the highlight of the weekend.”
Delpin concludes, “Simultaneously occurring, the sport continues to flourish in Sardinia, fueling optimism for a bright future. Badminton has already achieved remarkable success on the island, exemplified by the MATEX Marabadminton Academy’s achievements.”
Return of the Kings? – A Chat With Former MATEX Marabadminton Ace, Christoffer Holm
After narrowly missing the Serie A Badminton title for three years in a row, the MATEX Marabadminton Academy is back with a vengeance in 2025. With a revamped lineup and a burning desire for victory, can the Sardinian squad reclaim their throne?
To get a better understanding of the team’s chances, I reached out to former MATEX Marabadminton star, christoffer Holm. Christoffer, who has been a mainstay of the academy’s success, offered insightful commentary on the team’s chances this season
Moderator: Christoffer, thanks for joining us. The MATEX Marabadminton Academy has undergone some important changes this off-season. how do you see the new additions impacting the team’s performance?
Christoffer Holm: It’s certainly an exciting time to be a MATEX supporter. We’ve lost some key players like Gianna Stiglich and Malena Norrman, but the acquisitions of Julien Maio and Leachia Palermo are massive. Their mixed doubles partnership is going to be a force to be reckoned with. And don’t forget the young talents like Benedicte Sillassen and Inés Castillo – they bring a lot of energy and potential to the squad.
Moderator: It’s true, they’ve made some shrewd moves in the transfer market. However,the opening weekend sees them face some tough opponents,including defending champions BC Milano. How do you think the team will fare in these early encounters?
Christoffer Holm: It’s going to be a baptism by fire, no doubt. Modena and Chiari are both strong sides, and the clash against BC Milano is always a highlight of the season. It’s a rivalry that goes back years, and the intensity is always through the roof. Though, I believe in this team. They have the talent and the hunger to succeed.
Moderator: You mention the rivalry with BC Milano. 2024’s Serie A final between the two teams was a nail-biter. With the team still finding its footing this season, do you think they can overcome that hurdle?
Christoffer Holm: I wouldn’t count them out. Every year brings new challenges and opportunities. BC Milano are still the team to beat, but MATEX has proven time and again that they can rise to the occasion. It’s going to be a captivating battle to watch.
Moderator: Now,there’s also the captivating situation with Rosario Maddaloni missing the opening weekend due to the birth of his daughter. How do you think his absence will impact the team?
Christoffer holm: Obviously, Rosario is a vital part of the team setup. He’s a brilliant coach and motivator. However,I’m sure the players are fully focused on the task at hand. They’ve been training hard and are ready to compete. This could even be a motivation booster for them.
Moderator: looking towards the future, what are your predictions for MATEX this season?
Christoffer Holm: I firmly believe they can win the Serie A title this year. they’ve got the talent, the drive, and the hunger. It won’t be easy, but I wouldn’t bet against them.
Moderator: That’s certainly a bold prediction, Christoffer!
We want to hear from you, badminton fans! What are your thoughts on MATEX Marabadminton Academy’s chances this season? Can they reclaim their throne in Serie A? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below.
