Rugby is once again leaving its mark on local pitches thanks to Zebre Parma’s “Legacy” initiative, launched by the Italian Rugby Federation’s franchise. FIR and the club’s new board have unveiled a program inspired by the Springboks’ revolution under Nelson Mandela. Just as rugby helped unite a nation in South Africa, the gialloblù’s ambition is to rebuild the sporting and cultural fabric of rugby in northwestern Italy.
The two–year plan focuses on spreading rugby’s values and skills while promoting environmental sustainability, social inclusion and community participation. The program will run monthly across the provinces of Parma, Piacenza, Reggio Emilia, Modena, Bologna, Mantua, Cremona and Brescia. The September kick-off features events in Piacenza, Colorno, Casalmaggiore and Noceto, followed by four new clubs each month.
“The franchise is a national asset,” said Zebre Parma president Gianni Fava. “In our home region, we want to spread rugby’s values to girls and boys, discovering new talents who may one day wear the Azzurri jersey. I’m sure this project will deliver significant results. I’d like to thank the presidents and club leaders who embraced the initiative enthusiastically and will help us multiply its impact.”
The program combines sporting, social and cultural activities under three main pillars: Green Festival, knowledge-sharing and Fanspirit.
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The Green Festival offers convivial, community-driven events in town squares and clubs, featuring Zebre athletes, federal coaches and local institutions.
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Knowledge-sharing strengthens FIR’s role through training sessions with local clubs, supported by professional players.
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Fanspirit connects communities to Zebre Parma’s URC home games at Stadio Lanfranchi, transforming the international stage into a platform of pride and belonging.
Two key goals anchor the project: social engagement and sustainability. FIR and Zebre have launched tangible initiatives to support the community, particularly through inclusive rugby. On the environmental side, Parma’s rugby citadel aims to set an example with waste reduction, water conservation and food sustainability initiatives.
The project is led by Claudio Perruzza, Zebre Parma board member, with Franco Ascione as technical and sporting director. FIR’s social responsibility strategy is coordinated by Daniela De Angelis and Federica Mussuto, while Carlo Frangioni and Diego Colombana oversee operations. Luca Raza is responsible for coordinating the regional committees.