Last weekend, our Gladiators made their mark on the beautiful coastal town of Sapri, transforming the varsity retreat into a resounding success. It was more than just a weekend getaway; it was a dynamic blend of sport, local culture, and meaningful engagement, made possible through the exceptional collaboration of various local institutions.
A Weekend Made Possible by Sapri’s Community Spirit
We owe the success of this retreat to the tireless efforts of Gerardo Ferrara, Coordinator of the Sport Activities Department at IIS Leonardo da Vinci High School of Sapri. Gerardo was the visionary behind this unique experience, believing in the potential of creating something special for our Gladiators. His commitment went beyond logistics—he reached out to his personal network, ensuring the entire town of Sapri opened its doors to welcome our teams with warmth and generosity.
Gerardo’s school played a vital role, with more than 30 students enthusiastically stepping up to guide our teams throughout their stay. From creating detailed event maps and brochures to serving as welcoming hosts, these high school students demonstrated exceptional maturity and leadership. Their contributions were integral to ensuring our athletes felt at home, and for that, we extend our deepest thanks.
A Community Effort: Special Thanks to Our Supporters
The retreat kicked off with a formal presentation in the school’s auditorium, a ceremony attended by several distinguished guests. We were honored by the presence of the school’s Principal, the Mayor of Sapri, the Tourism Commissioner, and representatives from numerous local associations. Each of these individuals played a role in bringing this project to life. Special thanks are also due to the dedicated staff members of Circolo Nautico Sapri, whose efforts helped shape a memorable experience for our teams.
A Perfect Balance of Training and Exploration
One of the highlights was spending the evening at the beach, where we relaxed, and really got to know each other outside of our usual work environment. We also had some great team-building practices, which helped strengthen our communication and collaboration skills. Overall, the retreat brought us closer as a team, with a renewed sense of trust and unity that will definitely help us in future projects. ~ Nicole Carnabuci, COED Volleyball and Women’s Soccer player
Over the course of three action-packed days, our Gladiators immersed themselves in rigorous training sessions, fostering teamwork and refining their skills. But this retreat was about more than just intense practices—it was a chance to explore the stunning natural beauty of Sapri and experience the town’s rich culture. Our athletes were not only tested on the field, but they also embraced the spirit of discovery and connection, making new friends, strengthening bonds, and engaging with the local community.
Dear Gladiators thank you for giving me the opportunity to go on this retreat. Firstly, this was one of my best trips ever and I got so happy to get to know the teammates and become close with all of them. This was a trip to prepare us for the season, but we made it fun and serious at the same time. The hotel, the food, the activities were all well organized and Sapri was beautiful. I am honored to represent the Gladiators, and the best is coming💙🤍. ~ Momo Husseiny, Men’s Soccer player
This retreat exemplified the true Gladiator spirit—commitment to excellence, camaraderie, and a passion for both sport and adventure. The breathtaking landscapes, warm hospitality, and unforgettable moments shared during this weekend have left a lasting impact on our teams.
Gratitude to All Who Made It Possible
We are immensely grateful to everyone who made this retreat possible. From the local institutions to the people of Sapri, and most importantly, to our Gladiators for their dedication and energy. This retreat was not just a success in terms of sport, but a testament to the power of community, collaboration, and shared experiences.
Thank you to all who contributed to this incredible journey. The bonds forged during this retreat will carry our Gladiators forward, both on and off the field.
