Lecce President Saverio Sticchi Damiani proudly unveiled the club`s new sports center in Martignano, emphasizing that this ambitious project has been a long-standing vision for the club, significantly bolstered by the return of Pantaleo Corvino. The primary goal was to establish a proprietary sports facility that would not only support athletic and financial success but also ensure long-term growth and development for the team.
This extensive 16-hectare project represents a crucial first step, funded by astute and careful corporate management that accumulated resources specifically for this pivotal growth opportunity. A club-owned sports center, the president explained, is vital for the overall progress of the organization and for enhancing the quality of training for both the first team and youth sectors.
Visible progress at the site is evident: one playing field has been renovated in record time, with a second pitch slated for completion by December. The current structure features a modern gym for the first team, changing rooms, offices, and a meeting room, positioning it as the central hub for the club`s daily operations. Sticchi Damiani extended his gratitude to everyone involved in this “incredible adventure,” from the shareholders who embraced the vision a decade ago, to General Manager Mercadante and architect Toscano, whose extraordinary efforts were instrumental. He also acknowledged Martignano`s mayor, Luigino Sergio, for recognizing the significant value this initiative brings to the Salento region.
The President reiterated that the center is the culmination of years of successful management and brilliant technical area operations that have yielded both sporting achievements and economic resources. He highlighted that, instead of focusing on personal interests, the shareholders chose to reinvest in the club`s future. The facility, with 25% completed and presented today, is also designed to honor Lecce`s rich, over-century-long history – a club that, unlike many more decorated teams, has never faced bankruptcy. Historical references will be prominently featured within the interior spaces.
In a poignant gesture, Sticchi Damiani announced that the very first privately-owned pitch in Lecce`s history would be dedicated to Graziano Fiorita, the club`s physiotherapist who tragically passed away last April. This tribute serves as a poignant reminder of a recent and painful chapter, ensuring the memory of a cherished member of the Giallorossi family lives on.
