Sports at Bocconi Are Truly for Everyone

Regarding sports at Bocconi, it is appropriate to speak of two different periods: pre and post-Bocconi Sport Center. In fact, in the years prior to the construction of the arena – which is located at the new campus on Via Sarfatti – the Bocconi Sport Team had already been formed, and they competed successfully in both national and university tournaments. They played and practiced mainly in facilities rented for the occasion, but when their own "home" was built, the leap forward was one for the records. Today, the Anglo-Saxon concept of campus fits perfectly with the facilities that Bocconi makes available to nearly all student athletes. From basketball, volleyball and football (both 5-a-side and 11-a-side), to running, tennis, lacrosse, golf, rugby, swimming, water polo, rowing, sailing and cheerleading, the range of disciplines – for both men and women – offered by Bocconi Sport is vast and varied, so as to "keep" on campus the majority of students who wish to play sports during their university career. Above all, sports at Bocconi are played both at a competitive and recreational level – in order to truly allow everyone to find their own personal dimension.

"To the first-year students who, as always, will arrive at the beginning of the academic year," explains Riccardo Santolamazza, Director of Sport Operations at Bocconi Sport and former professional basketball player, "my advice to you is to go to the Bocconi Sport Center to get a first look and receive some basic information. Next, sign up for the membership that entitles you to many opportunities, especially that of obtaining a medical certificate – as per federal law – which allows you to participate in the various activities." These activities are divided into individual and team sports, and are practiced at different levels: from intramurals – or internal tournaments reserved for students – and university-level competitions, to actual national competitions. "Everyone can find their own personal dimension depending on whether they consider sports simple fun, or whether they want to play at a competitive level," continues Santolamazza, "and even in the latter case, many of our teams are playing in renowned national championships. Considering the yearly turnover that sets apart a situation like ours, we are always looking for new, talented people to bolster the staff." That is not all. Sports – in addition to scores, victories and defeats – is so much more: "It is a way to socialize, establish contacts and create networks; in addition, of course, to keeping fit. It is a great way to quickly join the Bocconi community." Sports are not the only thing in action, though. At Bocconi Sport, there is also room for more. "Our teams also need organizational and managerial support. If any new student believes they have these characteristics, they will be welcome to join."

Translated by Rosa Palmieri