by InTrieste
In a collaboration that reflects the evolving relationship between sports and academia, U.S. Triestina Calcio 1918, one of Italy’s most historic soccer clubs, and the University of Trieste have signed a landmark three-year agreement. This partnership promises to foster mutual growth through a range of innovative initiatives, signaling a bold new chapter in the bond between the club and the city’s academic community.
The agreement, signed in a formal ceremony last Thursday at the University of Trieste, saw Triestina President Ben Rosenzweig and University Rector Roberto Di Lenarda exchange symbolic gifts, solidifying what both parties describe as a “significant milestone.” The collaboration, built on a foundation laid during the previous season, is seen as a pivotal moment for the club, the university, and the region at large.
At the heart of the partnership is a commitment to expanding visibility and cooperation across several domains. This will include joint participation in the celebration of the university’s centenary—an occasion marking 100 years since its founding, which was celebrated with great fanfare last week. Additionally, Triestina and the university will co-host a major event during the 2024-25 soccer season, though the exact nature of the occasion remains to be determined through further dialogue.
One of the most significant aspects of the partnership is its emphasis on direct engagement between the university’s students and the club’s professionals. Workshops, corporate testimonials, and academic events will connect students with athletes, coaches, and club executives, offering rare opportunities to gain insights into the world of professional sports. These sessions will be tailored to students’ academic paths and professional aspirations, deepening the integration between sports and higher education.
In addition to these educational efforts, the club has committed to providing internship and training opportunities for students and recent graduates, potentially opening doors to careers in sports management, marketing, and more. As part of the agreement, Triestina has vowed to ensure that every collaboration takes place within an environment that is inclusive, safe, and free from discrimination—reaffirming the club’s commitment to social responsibility.
The new partnership comes at a time when the intersection of sports and academia is gaining increasing prominence globally. Institutions like the University of Trieste and Triestina are showing how interdisciplinary collaboration can offer growth opportunities for both sectors.
“This is a partnership of inestimable value,” said Rector Di Lenarda. “It is not just about sports or education. It is about creating a shared space for learning, innovation, and community engagement.”
For Triestina, a club with roots dating back to 1918, this initiative represents more than just another sponsorship or PR move. “We see this as a long-term investment in the future of our city,” President Rosenzweig noted during the signing. “By working closely with the University of Trieste, we are building a bridge between sport and education that will benefit our community for years to come.”
With both parties expressing enthusiasm for the journey ahead, this new agreement reflects the potential for collaboration between two of Trieste’s most respected institutions. It stands as a symbol of how sports and education can intersect, enriching the broader community and creating new pathways for growth, participation, and success.
