Thank God there are so many young talents in Ticino, because the future of sport depends on the new generations. With this spirit, Panathlon Club Lugano has chosen to dedicate the February banquet to the young athletes who are distinguishing themselves in the Ticino sports scene, celebrating commitment, achievements, and educational values.

During the evening, ten young athletes from various disciplines were honored. This recognition is not limited to competitive achievements, but also recognizes personal achievement, dedication to study, and respect for the rules that underpin the sport.

The initiative is part of the club's broader commitment to promoting a healthy sports culture, based on fair play and individual growth. This work has contributed significantly to supporting numerous young people in the area over the years.

A new formula for telling the stories of young athletes

What made the ceremony particularly dynamic was the format chosen to introduce the award recipients. Leading the introduction was Felice Pellegrini, president of the club's Young Talents Committee, who coordinated a more interactive presentation than in the past.

For the occasion, two students from the SUPSI Visual Communication program, Simone Bettazza and Jacopo Chicco, creators of the Reflection Sport Stories project, were involved. Through direct dialogue with the athletes and lively narration of their sporting experiences, the two young men helped liven up the evening and put the award winners at the forefront.

The result was a compelling account of their stories: training, sacrifices, dreams, and ambitions that accompany the journey of those trying to emerge in sport.

Ten disciplines, one goal

The young people honored in 2025 represent a wide variety of disciplines, demonstrating the diversity of Ticino's sporting landscape. Among the sports represented are alpine skiing, swimming, equestrianism, cross-country triathlon, Paralympic swimming, athletics, and chess.

Different paths, but united by a shared goal: to grow in sport while keeping the core values ​​that form its foundation: determination, respect for the opponent, team spirit, and fairness.

Panathlon's recognition aims to highlight this educational dimension of sport, often less visible than competitive results but equally important in the development of young people.

A concrete commitment to supporting talents

In recent years, Panathlon Club Lugano's support for young athletes has also translated into concrete assistance. Since 2019, the club has supported 42 boys and girls between the ages of 14 and 18, contributing to their sporting development through a targeted support program.

Overall, over 55 francs in contributions were distributed, intended to help families and athletes with sports-related expenses, from training to competitions.

A long-term investment that aims to create the conditions that allow the most promising young people to continue their careers without financial obstacles.

Panathlon's role in spreading sporting values

During the evening, President Ivan Degliesposti reiterated how supporting the new generations represents one of the central objectives of the club, in full harmony with the principles of Panathlon movement.

Promoting sport means not only supporting competitive activity, but also spreading a culture based on ethics, respect for rules, and personal development.

The February gathering thus became a gathering of athletes, sports managers, and enthusiasts, united by the desire to support the development of sport in the area.

A community that grows through sport

The evening concluded in an atmosphere of enthusiasm and sharing. For the Panathlon Club Lugano, this event dedicated to young talents has become a consolidated tradition, highlighting the sporting potential of the canton.

Behind every young awardee lies not just an achievement, but a journey of passion, discipline, and daily commitment. These are values ​​the club intends to continue promoting in the years to come.

Because, as the meeting emphasized, today's talents can become tomorrow's champions, but above all, ambassadors for a sport that educates, unites, and builds communities.

The picture:
© CD Media / David Camponovo

From top left:
Ivan Degliesposti, Rebecca Mariotti, Emma Mecic, Emma Rosa, Ginevra Iannunzio, Eric Huanca Quispe, Christian De Lucia (Father), Felice Pellegrini.

From bottom left:
Caroline and Nicole Cocchi, Giada and Ambra Lobsiger.