Work began today on the redevelopment of the sports ground in Piazza Magione, as part of Palermo FC’s “Palermo in the Community” project, promoted by the Municipality of Palermo.
Present at the launch of the project were Mayor Roberto Lagalla, Palermo FC President Dario Mirri, and the councillors for Urban Regeneration, Maurizio Carta, and for Sport, Alessandro Anello.
The project involves the complete refurbishment of the pitch, including the resurfacing of the playing surface and the renovation of the facilities, as well as the installation of a new lighting system, giving the city a renewed, modern and functional space, intended primarily for young people. The project forms part of a wider educational and social initiative aimed at promoting inclusion, participation and well-being through sport.
“With the start of work on the Magione sports ground, we are taking a concrete step towards giving back to the city a space that is not merely for sport, but one that is deeply educational and inclusive – says Mayor Roberto Lagalla – . This project was conceived with the aim of actively involving the community, associations and all stakeholders, so that the sports ground becomes a genuine educational tool, capable of conveying values such as respect, sharing and active citizenship. At the same time, we are aware of the great symbolic value of this place for Palermo: for this very reason, everyone must commit to protecting and preserving it over time, so that it remains a healthy and positive point of reference for the younger generations and for the entire neighbourhood”.
“The Magione pitch – says Palermo FC chairman Dario Mirri – is just the first in the Palermo in the Community initiative, the local adaptation of City Football Group’s wider international social responsibility project, which has already built dozens of football pitches for disadvantaged young people around the world, from Manchester to New York, Bahia and many other places. “Wherever there are children and a ball, we as a sports Club feel the need to create opportunities and environments for social development, inclusion, combating school dropout rates and fostering a sense of community through suitable and accessible facilities. Harnessing the passion for football means improving people’s lives through sport. This is and always will be our goal, and we will pursue it through other similar initiatives, always alongside those who share our vision”.