The passing of Fabio Gaggini, who died at the age of 70 after an illness, represents a profound loss for all of Ticino sports. His name is inextricably linked to Hockey Club Lugano, a club he supported for over six decades in diverse but consistently crucial roles. From player to captain, from manager to president, and through his unwavering commitment to the development of the youth sector, Gaggini left a lasting mark on the club and its fans.
A captain who symbolizes the rebirth of Juventus
Those who lived through the 1980s remember Fabio Gaggini wearing the number 22 jersey and the captain's armband. A fast forward with a strong personality, he was one of the key players in securing promotion to Serie A at the end of the 1981/82 season, a turning point in Hockey Club Lugano's history.
That season, he scored 25 goals and 24 assists, forming a particularly effective offensive unit alongside Canadian Bernard Gagnon and Valais native Martin Lötscher. He played eight seasons with the Bianconeri, totaling 192 games and 157 points.
At just 28, he decided to end his competitive career. The growing professionalization of Swiss hockey and the ever-increasing demands of his legal career made it difficult to continue his dual career.

The beginning of a long managerial experience

After his time on the ice ended, his contribution to Hockey Club Lugano continued. In 1985, he joined the club's Committee, immediately making his expertise and ability to interpret the evolution of the sport available.
In September 1991, he took over from Geo Mantegazza, assuming the club's presidency during a delicate period. Taking over a team that had won four national titles was a daunting challenge, but Gaggini approached those years with determination and a clear vision of the future.

The 1999 title that has gone down in history

Among the most significant moments of his presidency remains the triumph of April 5, 1999. On the ice of Valascia, Lugano won the Swiss title by defeating Ambrì-Piotta in a final that entered the history of Swiss hockey.
That team, built with Beat Kaufmann and led by Jim Koleff, gave Juventus fans one of the most intense emotions ever. In the following years, two more Swiss championships followed, won in the finals against Davos, confirming the club's position at the top of the national table.
In November 2006, Fabio Gaggini left his operational roles, although he continued to be a point of reference for the company.

A contribution that goes beyond sporting results

His influence wasn't limited to his successes on the ice. Gaggini was among the founders of the Golden Wings Club (GWC), the main support group for Hockey Club Lugano, helping to strengthen the relationship between the club and its supporters.
He also participated in the creation of the HC Lugano Academy Foundation, established in 2015 to support the youth sector, of which he was still a member of the Foundation Board. This commitment demonstrates his belief in the development of young players and the continuity of the Juventus sporting project.
A key figure for the hockey movement
Those who worked with Fabio Gaggini remember his charisma, his ability to mediate, his strategic clarity, and his extraordinary foresight. He was able to interpret changes in the sport well in advance, building solid relationships in the Ticino, Swiss, and international hockey worlds.
His love for the black and white colors accompanied every stage of his life. Even after leaving operational roles, he continued to offer ideas, advice, and support, becoming a constant presence for managers, players, and collaborators.
His legacy remains an integral part of the identity of Hockey Club Lugano today.

Condolences from the Ticino Welcome editorial team

The editorial staff of Ticino Welcome joins in the heartfelt condolences of Fabio Gaggini's wife Francesca, his children Simona and Sandro, his family, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Our thoughts go out to the management, staff, athletes, volunteers, and fans of Hockey Club Lugano in this time of mourning. Fabio Gaggini's memory will live on through the club's history, the values ​​he instilled, and the crucial contribution he made to the growth of hockey in Ticino.