Chuck Hobbs

Author: Chuck Hobbs

GUELFI AND DOLPHINS IN THE FINAL!

Posted on by Chuck Hobbs

Two intense and thrilling semifinals have determined the top two teams of the 2025 IFL season: on June 28 in Toledo, an unprecedented matchup will feature Guelfi Firenze and Dolphins Ancona, who defeated Frogs Legnano and Panthers Parma respectively on Saturday night.

The 2025 Italian Football League season is heading toward its grand finale, and it’s set to be a historic occasion: for the first time ever, Guelfi Firenze and Dolphins Ancona will face off in the XLIV Italian Bowl, scheduled for June 28 at the prestigious Glass Bowl in Toledo, Ohio (USA). Two ambitious programs, both the result of extraordinary campaigns, crown their perfect seasons with a ticket to the national championship.

The Guelfi dominated Group B with an undefeated record, led by a high-powered offense and one of the league’s most solid defenses. The Dolphins, on the other hand, closed the regular season with nine straight wins, boasting the best defense in the league and a rushing attack that made the difference in the semifinals as well. Two teams that earned their overseas journey through consistently convincing performances and a strong team identity.

Guelfi Firenze vs Frogs Legnano 35-23

In front of a big home crowd at the Guelfi Sport Center, Florence maintained their unbeaten record with a comeback victory fueled by maturity and determination. After a strong start by the Frogs—who jumped ahead 14-0 thanks to a 34-yard pass from Luke Zahradka to Niccolò Pulsinelli and a rushing touchdown by the Italian-American quarterback—Guelfi regained control of the game with poise and focus. Andrea Fimiani, the undisputed leader of the Tuscan squad throughout the season, first connected with Frankie Stola for a touchdown before halftime and then scored three rushing touchdowns himself, displaying vision, strength, and leadership while shaking off early-game mistakes.

The turning point, however, came from the defense in the third quarter: Eystin Salum, facing his former team, intercepted Zahradka and returned it 74 yards for a touchdown, igniting the crowd and completely flipping the game’s momentum. Despite the Frogs’ attempts to get back into the game—with a second TD from Pulsinelli and a 29-yard field goal by Lorenzo Gioco—the Guelfi sealed the win in the final quarter thanks to a rock-solid and disciplined defense, led by Colin Schooler and Salum, and with a standout performance from Christian Sottura. For Guelfi, this will be their fourth final appearance in four years, enriched by the opportunity to return to Toledo, where they previously lost to Panthers Parma. They head there undefeated (the only IFL team with that record), with 11 wins on the season.

Dolphins Ancona vs Panthers Parma 20-14

At Nelson Mandela Stadium in Ancona, the Dolphins rewrote their program’s history by defeating the reigning champions, Panthers Parma, a team accustomed to high-stakes games. After beating them twice already in the regular season, the Ancona team delivered a mature and confident performance, once again relying on an impeccable defense and, for the first time this season, a highly effective running game.

After falling behind in the first quarter to a rushing touchdown by Robbie Patterson, the Dolphins responded with grit: Cristiano Brancaccio powered in for a rushing touchdown, tying the game at 7-7 and holding that scoreline until the fourth quarter! A balanced game and strong defensive play on both sides kept the score unchanged until early in the final quarter, when Ancona quarterback Blake Eaton gave the Dolphins the lead with a rushing touchdown. After a brief Panthers equalizer with a touchdown reception by Patterson on a pass from Parnell, it was young Teo Flamini who restored the lead for Ancona with the third rushing TD of the evening. The Doric defense then shut the door, repelling every attempt at a comeback and giving Ancona the joy of a top-division final appearance for the first time in 21 years.

The June 28 final will be a unique and exciting clash between two teams ready to write a new chapter in Italian football history. See you in Toledo for the XLIV Italian Bowl, which will also be broadcast live on BCSN.

Photo credits: Daniele Bettazzi and Germano Capponi

GIONNI COLOMBO TROPHY – XLIV ITALIAN BOWL

Posted on by Chuck Hobbs

Created for the 44th edition of the Italian Bowl, the new Gionni Colombo Trophy is a one-of-a-kind piece in the Italian American football landscape. The trophy was entirely designed and handcrafted by Bottega Orafa Paolo Penko of Florence, a historic Florentine artisan workshop, using ancient techniques of the Renaissance tradition reinterpreted with a contemporary touch.

The striking sculpture depicts an American football held aloft by a dynamic, sinuous support that evokes the power and motion of the game. Fluid lines spiral upward in an ascending vortex that culminates in the iconic shape of the football — the ultimate goal of every athlete: victory.

The support is adorned with hand-enameled tricolor streaks, echoing the colors of the Italian flag and highlighting the national identity of the event.

The football is crafted using the exclusive penkato technique, a finish that gives the surface a vibrant, luminous, and highly expressive texture. The base is enriched with elements created using the bugnato technique, lending the trophy additional symbolic and architectural strength.

Engraved on the front are:

  • GIONNI COLOMBO TROPHY
  • XLIV ITALIAN BOWL
  • The official logo of the IFL (Italian Football League)

On the back of the trophy, carved by hand, is the inscription:
“For glory, for honour, for ever” — a motto that captures the timeless spirit and energy of the competition.

This trophy is not merely a sports award but an artisanal work of art — a celebration of the history, passion, and excellence of American football in Italy, while also paying tribute to the memory of Gionni Colombo.

Mr. Paolo Penko, creator of the Gionni Colombo Trophy

2025 IFL SEMIFINALISTS PREVIEW

Posted on by Chuck Hobbs

DOLPHINS ANCONA

After losing four consecutive Italian Bowls—each time at the hands of the Bergamo Lions—from 2001 to 2004, and reaching the semifinals three years in a row in recent seasons, the Dolphins Ancona are giving it another shot, this time entering the playoffs as one of the title favorites. They earned their “contender” status throughout the season, which began with a narrow loss on the road to the Frogs Legnano but continued with a Rossini-like crescendo of nine consecutive wins. The offense, led by American quarterback Blake Eaton, and the stingiest defense in Italy toppled the Warriors Bologna, Rhinos Milano, Lions Bergamo, and Panthers Parma—twice each—and also earned revenge on the Frogs with a 7-0 shutout at home at Nelson Mandela Stadium. Ancona’s football stadium will also host this year’s semifinal match against the reigning champions, the Panthers Parma, who, as noted, have already fallen twice to the team from the Marche region. Will the old saying “third time’s the charm” prove true?

FROGS LEGNANO

Back in the top division for just the second year, the Frogs Legnano are determined to relive the glory days when they won six national titles between 1984 and 1995. After a “learning season” that still exceeded all expectations with a playoff berth, the Frogs strengthened their roster over the summer, adding several Italian talents and, most importantly, Blue Team quarterback Luke Zahradka, who quickly emerged as the charismatic leader of the team. Finishing the regular season with an 8-2 record, the Frogs defeated the Giaguari Torino 28-7 in the wild card game. Facing Guelfi Firenze won’t be easy, but the Lombard squad has everything it takes to challenge the Tuscan powerhouse.

GUELFI FIRENZE

Guelfi Firenze enters the playoffs as the only unbeaten team in the league. Competing in Group B of the IFL Championship, the Tuscan squad met little resistance. They dominated the Skorpions Varese, Giaguari Torino, Aquile Ferrara, Marines Lazio, and Pirates Albisola, never winning by fewer than 17 points and averaging an impressive 49.9 points per game while allowing only 18.0. Led by Italian quarterback Andrea Fimiani—the league’s rushing leader with 1,308 yards in ten games—and supported by imports Frankie Stola, Colin Schooler, and especially Eystin Salum, the team’s ultimate all-around weapon, Firenze promises fireworks in their semifinal at the Guelfi Sport Center this Saturday against Frogs Legnano—the final hurdle. Considering the Lombard offense is also packed with firepower, a high-scoring and well-balanced battle is expected.

PANTHERS PARMA

For the second year in a row, reigning champions Panthers Parma lost three games during the regular season—a rare occurrence for the team—making their “road to Toledo” more complicated than expected. A decisive home loss to Dolphins Ancona in the final game of the regular season forced Coach Brian Michitti’s squad (who also leads the Blue Team) to earn their return trip to the States by winning all their playoff games on the road. Despite the setbacks, the Panthers have long been a model of resilience and consistency when it counts, and they proved it once again with a convincing 41-29 wild card win in Varese over the Skorpions. Their final obstacle to a third straight Italian Bowl appearance? The Dolphins Ancona—who already bested them twice this season. But the playoffs are a different story: everything that came before is erased, and in a single-elimination game, anything can happen—especially when the Panthers are on the field!

IFL PLAYOFFS: PANTHERS AND FROGS ADVANCE TO SEMIFINALS

Posted on by Chuck Hobbs

The opening weekend of the IFL Playoffs went according to script, with the Parma Panthers and Legnano Frogs securing their spots in the semifinals after defeating the Skorpions Varese and Giaguari Torino, respectively.

After a regular season full of twists and tight battles, the postseason opened with two convincing wins by the higher-seeded teams. The defending champions from Parma leaned on their experience and playmaking ability to overcome Varese, while the Frogs displayed the dominant defense that has been their calling card all year. Now, the final four are set: Parma will take on the Dolphins Ancona, while Legnano travels to Florence to face the undefeated Guelfi.

Skorpions Varese 29 – Panthers Parma 41

The Panthers looked every bit the defending champions Saturday, showing poise and execution to take down a gritty Skorpions squad on the road.

The first quarter saw both teams trading field goals as defenses set the tone early. But Parma took control in the second, first with a go-ahead field goal, then with a game-changing pick-six by Alemanno, followed by a successful PAT to make it 13-3. Patterson added a touchdown strike to Fiscelli before halftime, and although Varese answered with a MacClure-to-Tovaglieri TD, a missed extra point kept them trailing 20-9 at the break.

The third quarter belonged to Parma. Patterson connected twice with Tassan—once after a sustained drive, and again after a defensive interception—stretching the lead. Varese fought back with a MacClure TD pass to Volonnino, but a failed two-point attempt left them with ground to make up.

In the fourth, both teams picked off passes, and Varese once again found the end zone through Volonnino, plus the extra point by Granelli. But Patterson responded with a rushing touchdown, and despite a late score by Marcheselli (plus another Granelli PAT), it was too little, too late. Alinovi closed it out with a final interception to send the Panthers into their third-straight semifinal.

Next up: a high-stakes rematch with Ancona, the only team to beat Parma this season—twice.

Frogs Legnano 28 – Giaguari Torino 7

The Frogs punched their ticket to the semis with a dominant win in Milan, smothering the Giaguari offense and capitalizing on key opportunities.

Legnano set the tone early, with Maffi scooping up a fumble and returning it for six, followed by a rushing score from Zahradka. Gioco hit one of two PATs to open up a 13-0 lead.

Both defenses held strong in the second quarter, but just before halftime, Zahradka found Pulsinelli in the end zone. A successful two-point conversion from Kittner to Calegari made it 21-0 at the break.

In the third, it was all Pulsinelli again, hauling in two more touchdown passes from Zahradka—both converted by Gioco. With a 28-point cushion, the Frogs coasted through the final quarter, rotating in backup QB Zerbo. Torino salvaged some pride with a TD pass from Lewandoski to Tenconi and a PAT from Salsa, but the outcome was never in doubt.

Legnano now turns its attention to the unbeaten Guelfi Firenze in what promises to be a thrilling semifinal in Florence.

For more: https://1divisione.fidaf.org

Photo credits: Cinzia Roganti & CUBO Photo

Media Alert – Press Conference 6/13/25

Posted on by Chuck Hobbs

Date/Time:  June 13, 2025; 11:00 am

Press Conference Location:
Incorvaia Bene Italiano Restaurant
4751 Monroe St, Toledo, OH 43623

Contact:

Pat Nowak, Director of Operations
Italian Bowl XLIV
pnowak258@gmail.com 
419.461.0155

Purpose:

Italian Bowl XLIV’s Passport to the Taste of Italy Taking Place June 15-28, 2025 – Join Us For a Taste!

Details:

Toledoans know great food!  When the excitement of Italian Bowl XLII built throughout the city in 2023, event organizers learned quickly that one week of the wildly popular Passport to the Taste of Italy Restaurant Week would not be enough when the event returned in 2025.  They were right – over 30 local establishments have signed on to celebrate the return of the Italian Football League’s “Super Bowl” and the event committee has added a lot more to the event, happening from June 15-28, 2025 including two weeks of dining, voting, and opportunities to win some fabulous prizes! A complete list of participating restaurants will be offered at  https://www.theitalianbowlusa.com/info/events/passport-to-the-taste-of-italy/

According to Italian Bowl XLIV’s Director of Operations Pat Nowak, “In 2023, we knew Toledo was hungry for the opportunity to celebrate all aspects of Italian culture – and there is no question that great food is at the heart of it!  Restaurant owners and diners alike let us know that one week just was not enough; we listened!  So, we are kicking-off the two-weeks long Passport to the Taste of Italy Restaurant Weeks on June 15th.  In addition to the People’s Choice and Judges’ Choice competitions, new this year the dining Passport program.  On June 22 the Passport to Italy Week begins with Hype Parties taking place at the local restaurants participating in the event. The parties will feature Italian cuisine, cocktail fun from Southern Glazers and Maumee Bay Brewing and entertainment.

Media are asked to confirm attendance at the June 13th presser with pnowak258@gmail.com; for greater detail on Italian Bowl XLIV, please email or call 419.461.0155. 

IFL WEEK 14: Guelfi undefeated, playoff bracket finalized

Posted on by Chuck Hobbs

The Guelfi complete a perfect season and advance to the semifinals along with the Dolphins Ancona. Wild Card matchups set: Frogs vs Giaguari and Skorpions vs Panthers (June 7-8).

Rome, May 25, 2025 – Week 14 marked the end of the 2025 Italian Football League regular season, delivering the final playoff outcomes. Guelfi Firenze wrapped up their ‘perfect season’, going undefeated and earning a direct ticket to the semifinals together with GLS Dolphins Ancona. The playoff picture is now complete, with Frogs Legnano, Panthers Parma, Skorpions Varese, and Giaguari Torino set to battle in the Wild Card round for a spot in the semifinals.

Here’s a recap of the games played in Week 14, with scores and brief summaries:

Rhinos Milano vs Lions Bergamo 28-2

The Rhinos ended their season on a high note with a solid home win. In the first quarter, McCray connected with Pooda for the opening TD. In the second, Paganini ran it in from 6 yards out and Salsa added the PAT. The third quarter saw another TD pass from McCray, this time to Myhre, followed by a successful two-point conversion by Paganini. Bergamo’s only points came from a fourth-quarter safety. The Rhinos finish 2025 with a smile; Lions now face the relegation playoff.

Frogs Legnano vs Warriors Bologna 35-0

It was the third game in eight days for the Warriors, who fell to the Frogs 35-0. Legnano scored with Kittner (twice), Segre, Pulsinelli, and Almeida. Masini was perfect on PATs. A focused defense and clinical offense allowed the Frogs to lock in second place in Group A.

Pirates Albisola vs Aquile Ferrara 14-3

A close game for three quarters, with defenses dominating early. Ferrara broke the deadlock in the third quarter with an 18-yard field goal by Bindini. But the Pirates erupted in the final quarter: Longato scored on a 20-yard run (PAT by Gregorini), then after Leidi’s interception, Burato threw a TD pass to Baca Ugalde (PAT again by Gregorini). It was Albisola’s second win of the season, and their first against a playoff-caliber team.

Skorpions Varese vs Lazio Marines 35-20

The Skorpions delivered when it counted, securing second place in the standings. Varese jumped ahead with Volonnino (TD pass from MacClure), Auriemma (rushing TD), and Tovaglieri (two TD receptions from MacClure). The Marines responded with a rushing TD by Norwood before halftime (28-7). In the third, Norwood threw a TD pass to Thornton and added another rushing TD in the fourth. Marcheselli sealed the win for Varese with a rushing score.

Giaguari Torino vs Guelfi Firenze 20-70

The first quarter was thrilling: Finali returned the kickoff for a TD, Salsa added the PAT. Salum hit Stola for a TD, Camorani tied it up. Lewandowski passed to Salsa for another Torino TD, then Salum connected with Mibelli for 14-14. From there, it was all Guelfi: second-quarter scores by Bellesi (run), Salum (two runs), Bartoccioni (70-yard run), and another TD pass to Mibelli. Piola scored for Torino, but the halftime score was already 42-20. In the second half, Salum added another rushing TD and threw for two more scores (Formosa and Bellesi). Camorani stayed perfect on PATs. Guelfi end the regular season undefeated, boasting a dominant point average.

Teams qualified for the 2025 IFL Playoffs:

Group A

Dolphins Ancona
Frogs Legnano
Panthers Parma

Group B

Guelfi Firenze
Skorpions Varese
Giaguari Torino

Direct Semifinalists (June 14-15):

Guelfi Firenze (1st B)

Dolphins Ancona (1st A)

Wild Card Round (June 7-8):

Frogs Legnano vs Giaguari Torino

Skorpions Varese vs Panthers Parma

IFL WEEK 12: GUELFI AND DOLPHINS IN CONTROL, PLAYOFF RACE WIDE OPEN

Posted on by Chuck Hobbs

Two weeks left in the regular season: confirmations, surprises and offensive breakdowns tighten the playoff picture.

The twelfth week of the Italian Football League confirmed the strength of the Guelfi Firenze—still the league’s only unbeaten team—as well as the solid form of the Dolphins Ancona and Frogs Legnano. The Skorpions Varese also continued their positive momentum, consolidating second place in Group B. With two rounds remaining before the end of the regular season, the race for the remaining playoff spots and the relegation playout is still very much alive.

Guelfi Firenze vs Aquile Ferrara  26-6

At the Guelfi Sport Center, the home team secured their ninth consecutive win in a game that turned out to be more competitive than expected. Missing several offensive line starters, Firenze struggled to find rhythm through the first three quarters. However, their defense held strong against a determined Ferrara. The Guelfi finally pulled away in the fourth quarter, as quarterback Fimiani led the charge with a rushing touchdown and a passing TD to Mibelli, adding to his two earlier scoring passes to Salum. Ferrara had briefly tied the game in the second quarter with a touchdown pass from Ceesay to Pasquotto but failed to score again, drastically reducing their playoff hopes. Despite a less dominant performance than usual, Firenze remains firmly atop Group B and continues its quest for a perfect regular season.

Skorpions Varese vs Pirates 1984 Albisola Superiore 42-0

A dominant victory for the Skorpions at home, who showcased their full offensive potential against a struggling Pirates squad. The game was effectively over by the third quarter thanks to an outstanding performance by quarterback Hamish McClure, who threw six touchdown passes: three to Zanovello, and one each to Piazzi, Rai, and Volonnino. A flawless defensive effort and solid game management in the final period sealed a perfect afternoon for Varese.The Pirates, still suffering from a depleted roster, were unable to mount any resistance and suffered yet another heavy loss in what has been a challenging debut season. Varese remains second in Group B and continues to push for a strong finish.

Rhinos Milano vs Frogs Legnano  0-46

With their starting quarterback sidelined, the Rhinos were overwhelmed by the Frogs from the opening kickoff. Legnano took control of the game early, allowing backup players to gain valuable minutes. Quarterback duties were shared between Zahradka and young prospect Zerbo, without any drop in efficiency. The Frogs found the end zone seven times, with touchdowns from Kittner (2), Almeyda, Pulsinelli (2), Di Biase, and Zahradka. The silver-and-black defense shut out the Rhinos completely, asserting dominance on both sides of the ball. The Frogs strengthen their playoff seeding and remain in contention for the top spot in Group A, while Milano continues a difficult season with another missed opportunity.

Lions Bergamo vs Dolphins Ancona 0-31

The Dolphins secured a convincing win on the road to maintain their lead in Group A, aided by a key moment early in the game: the ejection of American quarterback Butterfield for unsportsmanlike conduct, a blow that further complicates the Lions’ immediate future. Ancona opened the game with two interceptions on Bergamo’s first two drives and capitalized with touchdown passes from Eaton to Dazzani and Terhark. Terhark scored again in the second quarter, while Aldrighetti’s impressive kickoff return was nullified by Butterfield’s penalty. Before halftime, Nocera added a rushing touchdown, and Dazzani closed out the scoring with a third-quarter field goal. Still winless, the Lions now face a must-win matchup against the Warriors Bologna to avoid relegation playoffs.

 

🏆 Standings after Week 12:

GROUP A

  • Dolphins Ancona (7-1)
  • Frogs Legnano (7-2)
  • Panthers Parma (7-2)
  • Rhinos Milano (3-6)
  • Warriors Bologna (1-6)
  • Lions Bergamo (0-8)

GROUP B

  • Guelfi Firenze (9-0)
  • Skorpions Varese (5-4)
  • Giaguari Torino (4-4)
  • Marines Lazio (3-5)
  • Aquile Ferrara (3-5)
  • Pirates Albisola (1-7)

📌 Full standings, schedules, and insights: 1divisione.fidaf.org

📸 Photo credits: @Germano Capponi

BUSINESS, SPORT AND DIPLOMACY: THE FOURTH FIDAF BUSINESS FORUM IN ROME MARKS THE LAUNCH OF THE CSDI

Posted on by Chuck Hobbs

Hosted by Rome City Institute and under the patronage of the City of Rome, the Forum brought together businesses, institutions, and universities to strengthen ties between Italy and the United States through sport, innovation, and education.

The fourth edition of the Business Forum organized by the Italian Federation of American Football (FIDAF) in collaboration with RGP Northwestern Ohio and Jobs Ohio, was a resounding success. Held on Monday, May 5 at the brand-new headquarters of the Rome City Institute, the event welcomed Italian and American institutions, companies, and universities with the shared goal of promoting synergies between sport, business, and academia.

Although Nick Eyde was unable to attend due to personal reasons, Paul Zito (Vice President of International Development at RGP Northwest Ohio/Jobs Ohio) and Lou Tosi (Partner at the law firm Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick and representative of the University of Toledo) presented investment opportunities in the Toledo area and the state of Ohio—especially in light of the upcoming XLIV Italian Bowl, which will be played on June 28 at the prestigious Glass Bowl Stadium at the University of Toledo.

The Forum also marked the official launch of the Center for Sports, Diplomacy and Innovation (CSDI), the first research center of its kind in Italy dedicated to sports diplomacy and innovation. The CSDI will work with leading figures from academia, economics, and politics at an international level.

During the second panel, Antonio Cincotta (Executive Director of Rome City Institute) and Valerio Mancini (Scientific Director of the new center) shared the CSDI’s vision and goals, highlighting the importance of global cooperation in tackling future challenges through sport.

One of the most appreciated contributions came from Raffaello Pellegrini, CEO of Naturhouse and current General Manager of Aquile Ferrara (IFL). A former American football and flag football player and coach, Pellegrini spoke about his company and how competitive sports played a key role in his personal and professional development.

Also attending the event was Dr. Massimiliano Brocchi from CONI Lazio, who joined many professionals, business representatives, and students of the Rome City Institute—a long-time FIDAF partner that co-organized Italy’s first-ever football draft in November. Representing the Federation were federal board members Manfredi Leone, Edoardo Cammi, and Fabio Tortosa, as well as Fabrizio Cupellini (FIDAF Lazio Regional Delegate) and Fabio Pacelli (President of the Lazio Marines).

A dynamic, interactive event filled with insights, the Forum further strengthened the connection between Italy and the United States and laid the foundation for future collaborations in sports, academia, and entrepreneurship.

📷 Photo credits: Rome City Institute

IFL WEEK 11: DRAMA AND TURNAROUNDS IN THE PLAYOFF RACE

Posted on by Chuck Hobbs

Panthers edge Frogs to reopen Group A, Dolphins and Skorpions dominate, Marines crush Pirates

When the difference between victory and defeat comes down to a single point or a gutsy call in the final seconds, you know the season has hit its peak. Week 11 of the IFL delivered hard-fought games, major shifts in the standings, and standout performances. With teams chasing confirmation, redemption, or the element of surprise, the road to the playoffs is heating up.

Panthers Parma vs Frogs Legnano 26-25

The Panthers secured a crucial win, edging the Frogs by just one point and overtaking them in the standings, albeit with one more game played. The future of Group A remains wide open, with point differential in head-to-head matchups continuing to play a pivotal role. It was a thrilling, tightly contested game between two evenly matched teams. The Panthers started strong, scoring in the first quarter with a powerful run by Parnell followed by a two-point conversion from Alinovi. The rest of the quarter was a fierce defensive battle, with the Frogs unable to break through offensively. Early in the second quarter, Felli added a 26-yard field goal to extend Parma s lead. Only just before halftime did the silver-and-black Frogs finally find the end zone with a Zahradka touchdown pass to Kittner once again a game-changer for Legnano’s offense. The try failed, leaving the Frogs trailing 11-6. In the second half, Zahradka and Kittner struck again to give Legnano a brief lead, though another failed conversion made it 11-12. The Panthers responded immediately, retaking the lead in just two plays with a 55-yard run by Fiscelli and a Felli PAT. The back-and-forth continued as Pulsinelli hauled in a TD reception for the Frogs, with Masini converting the extra point to end the third quarter. Five minutes into the fourth, the Panthers pulled ahead once more with another Parnell run and a two-point conversion reception by Tassan. With time running out and defenses tightening, the Frogs launched one last comeback attempt, with Zahradka connecting deep to Segre to bring them within a point. But the decision to go for two and win the game didn t pay off. The Panthers kneeled out the clock to seal the victory.

Dolphins Ancona vs Rhinos Milano 35-7

A dominant home performance by the Dolphins, who made light work of the Rhinos already mentally checked out and looking ahead to next season. The first quarter was balanced, giving the Dolphins enough time to calibrate before unleashing an aerial assault that overwhelmed the Rhinos’ secondary. Eaton threw three touchdown passes in the second quarter two to Terhark and one to Dazzani with Brancaccio converting all three PATs. The teams went into halftime with the Dolphins up 21-0. Though the second-half pace slowed, Ancona’s control never wavered. Eaton added two more TD passes, to Orlandini and again Dazzani. The Rhinos managed a late touchdown with just over two minutes remaining a McCarty pass to Boni, who also kicked the extra point but the outcome was never in doubt. The Dolphins remain atop Group A thanks to point differential in head-to-heads, and head to Bergamo next week.

Skorpions Varese vs Giaguari Torino 37-14

The Skorpions claimed a decisive win in this key matchup against the Giaguari, overturning the 31-7 loss from the first leg but falling just short of overtaking Torino in the standings due to a one-point deficit in the aggregate. At Varese’s Franco Ossola Stadium, it was mostly one-way traffic, despite the surprise return of American QB Lewandoski for the Giaguari after last week s injury. The first quarter ended tied at 7, with rushing and receiving TDs by Marcheselli (Varese) and Salsa (Torino), respectively. In the second quarter, the Skorpions capitalized on Giaguari mistakes, striking deep with McClure s passes to Rai and Zanovello (twice). Lewandoski found Salsa again for a score, but the Skorpions  defense shut things down from there. After the break, fatigue and heat slowed the pace, but Varese maintained control. The final blow came in the fourth quarter with a field goal from Granelli who also hit all PATs and Zanovello’s third TD catch of the game.

Marines Lazio vs Pirates 1984 Albisola S. 38-10

No mercy in the capital for the Pirates, whose roster decimated by injuries in key positions was no match for a finally consistent Marines squad living up to expectations. With American QB Norwood in top form, Lazio opened the scoring with a rushing TD, followed by two passing touchdowns to Thornton and a QB sneak, all in the first quarter. Impallomeni s perfect PATs, along with a pick by Adriano Araceli and a fumble recovery by Cascio, capped a dominant start. The Pirates made too many mistakes early and struggled to contain their opponents  furious pace. A 34-yard field goal by Parodi gave Albisola their first points before halftime, but Norwood answered quickly with another TD pass to Thornton. In the final quarter, the Pirates managed a highlight with a pick-six by Bologna, followed by a Gregorini PAT, setting the final score at 38-10.

 

Current Standings (as of Week 11):

GROUP A

* Dolphins Ancona (6-1)
* Panthers Parma (7-2)
* Frogs Legnano (6-2)
* Rhinos Milano (3-5)
* Warriors Bologna (1-6)
* Lions Bergamo (0-7)

GROUP B

* Guelfi Firenze (8-0)
* Giaguari Torino (4-4)
* Skorpions Varese (4-4)
* Aquile Ferrara (3-4)
* Marines Lazio (3-5)
* Pirates Albisola (1-6)

More results, analysis, and standings:
https://1divisione.fidaf.org/

Ph. Credits: @Lorenza Morbidoni

FIDAF BUSINESS FORUM: SPORT, DIPLOMACY AND ACADEMIA TO BUILD BRIDGES BETWEEN ITALY AND THE UNITED STATES

Posted on by Chuck Hobbs

On May 5, the Rome City Institute will host the fourth edition of FIDAF’s Business Forum — an international event bringing together companies, universities and institutions to foster dialogue and cooperation through sport.

After the successful editions held in Varese, Bologna and Florence, the Italian Federation of American Football (FIDAF), in collaboration with RGP Northwest Ohio, Jobs Ohio and the Rome City Institute, and under the patronage of the City of Rome, is pleased to announce the Fourth Italian Business Forum, scheduled for Monday, May 5, 2025, at the Rome City Institute, Lungotevere Arnaldo da Brescia 15.

Entitled “Rome–Ohio: A Bridge Between Sport, Business and Academia,” the Forum offers a unique opportunity for dialogue among businesses, institutions and universities. The highlight of the event will be the official launch of the Rome City Center for Sports, Diplomacy and Innovation (CSDI), a new international hub that aims to promote sport as a tool for cooperation, dialogue, and innovation.

The day will begin at 10:30 AM with dedicated networking sessions between businesses and representatives of RGP Northwest Ohio, Jobs Ohio, and the University of Toledo. The official opening will follow, along with three thematic panels:

  • “Toledo and Ohio – A Model Mix of Sport, Business and Academia,” featuring Paul Zito (Vice President of International Development, RGP Northwest Ohio/Jobs Ohio) and Louis E. Tosi (Partner at Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick; Representative of the University of Toledo; Advisory Board Member of Rome City Institute and NIAF – National Italian American Foundation);
  • “Building Bridges Through Sport Diplomacy,” presenting the new CSDI with Antonio Cincotta (Executive Director, Rome City Institute) and Valerio Mancini (Director, CSDI);
  • “Naturhouse & The Business of Nutrition: Talent, Growth and Opportunity,” with Raffaello Pellegrini (CEO, Naturhouse).

FIDAF will close the event, followed by a networking aperitif.

“After successfully exploring the synergies between sport and business, this edition aims to highlight the growing importance of education and sport diplomacy as tools for development and international cohesion,” said FIDAF President Leoluca Orlando, who hopes for strong participation from institutions and the local business community.

The event is free of charge, but registration is required at the following link:
🔗 https://shorturl.at/MMbbA

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