Don Bosco Cup 2026: Misano Adriatico Hosts Thrilling Triple-Sport National Finals
The Don Bosco Cup 2026 continues its nationwide journey, recently bringing a high-energy blend of competition and sportsmanship to Misano Adriatico. Following the successful conclusion of events in Lignano Sabbiadoro, the PGS (Polisportive Giovanili Salesiane) shifted the spotlight to a diverse “tris” of disciplines: basketball, padel, and chess.
Held across the Villaggio San Pellegrino and the Palazzetto Rossini, these National Finals emphasized the educational spirit of sport, combining physical agility with mental fortitude. From the fast-paced action on the court to the strategic silence of the chessboard, the event provided a comprehensive platform for youth athletes to showcase their skills.
The Misano Triple Threat: Basketball, Padel, and Chess
The event in Misano Adriatico was uniquely structured to challenge athletes in three very different arenas:
- Basketball: The Misano stage was specifically dedicated to the Under 13 category, fostering growth and competition among the youngest hoopers.
- Padel: Starting on May 7, the padel tournament welcomed athletes from across Italy, reflecting the sport’s surging popularity and its growing integration into youth athletic programs.
- Chess: In a significant addition to the program, chess made its debut in the PGS National Finals. This introduction shifted the focus toward concentration, strategy, and game-reading capabilities, offering a formative experience for participants across different generations.
The Road Ahead: Upcoming National Finals
While the excitement in Misano has concluded, the Don Bosco Cup 2026 calendar remains packed with high-stakes competitions across Italy. The PGS will continue to organize events that blend athletic excellence with the values of fair play.
Athletes and fans should mark their calendars for the following upcoming appointments:
- Agropoli (May 22–24): The National Final for dance.
- Mondovì: The “artisticamica” event, specifically designed for the youngest gymnasts.
- Cesenatico (May 28–31): Basketball finals for the Under 14 and Under 16 categories, as well as volleyball finals for the Under 14-16 categories.
- Torino (May 30 – June 2): The “ritmicamica” final, featuring rhythmic gymnastics.
- Salsomaggiore Terme (May 29 – June 2): A major gathering dedicated to artistic roller skating.
- Cumiana (June 13–14): The grand finale of the series with the acroteam competition.
Key Takeaways from the 2026 National Finals
To give you a quick overview of the current state of the Don Bosco Cup, here are the essential highlights:

| Category/Sport | Recent/Upcoming Location | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Basketball (U13) | Misano Adriatico | Recently concluded at Villaggio San Pellegrino |
| Chess | Misano Adriatico | Debut discipline in PGS National Finals |
| Padel | Misano Adriatico | National participation starting May 7 |
| Dance | Agropoli | Scheduled for May 22–24 |
| Acroteam | Cumiana | Grand Finale on June 13–14 |
A Legacy of Educational Sport
The Don Bosco Cup is more than a series of trophies; it is a pedagogical project. By integrating traditional sports like basketball with emerging trends like padel and intellectual challenges like chess, the PGS ensures a holistic approach to youth development. As the tour moves toward its conclusion in Cumiana, the focus remains on the intersection of agonism and friendship, preparing the next generation of athletes for both the game and life.