Parma, April 9 2024 - Parma Calcio and Rugby Le Viole Amatori Parma have decided to create, in the spirit of unity and friendship between the sports, a social initiative that will come to life on Saturday 13 April. “Because sport must unite, regardless of the type of sport, and it must be practised” is the message that the two clubs wanted to convey today at the presentation held at the Club House de Le Viole Amatori Parma. 

In the presence of Parma Calcio’s Managing Director of Sport, Roel Vaeyens, and the President of Rugby Le Viole Amatori Parma, Michele Carbognani, accompanied by vice president Nicola Simeone and technical coordinator Luca Melli, the initiative was presented with a series of activities that will take place on Saturday. Thanks to the collaboration and support of Parma Academy coaches, a joint training session will be held on Saturday morning on the pitch of Cittadella del Rugby, used by Le Viole, for girls and boys who play both football and rugby, providing technical insights into both disciplines. After lunch together, the youngest members of Rugby Le Viole Amatori Parma will head to the Tardini as guests for the game against Spezia where they will have the opportunity to walk onto the pitch with the players and referee before kick-off. At the end of the match, in true rugby style, a ‘third half’ will be organised at the Ernesto Ceserini Museum, allowing attendees to discover the story of Parma Calcio, finishing the day alongside Gialloblu players and staff for photos and autographs.

“We are happy for the opportunity that allows the children, at a young age, to experience sports together. I have always said that it's not a competition between sports, instead, we are 'colleagues'. We want children to have a unique day, have fun, and then also cheer for our team at the stadium,' commented Roel Vaeyens. 'We thank Parma Calcio for agreeing to collaborate on this experience; we are here because we want to bring joy and experience to the children. The world of rugby thrives on volunteering, and we aim to provide youngsters with opportunities for camaraderie both on and off the field,' highlighted Rugby Le Viole Amatori Parma President Michele Carbognani.

Also present at the presentation was the goalkeeper of the Men's First Team, Leo Chichizola. Leo has a son, Luca, who plays basketball and rugby. A truly multi-sport family, a perfect embodiment of the initiative between the yellow-blue Club and Le Viole Amatori Parma. 'In the end, I think all sports educate and do a lot for young people. After school, engaging in sports training and having fun represents another aspect of education,' Leo commented.

Show your support and head along to the pitch of Le Viole Amatori Parma on Saturday morning, before getting behind the Gialloblu at the Tardini against Spezia!