Santa Croce athletic hub opens
Universita di Macerata opened the new CUS Macerata sports complex in the Santa Croce neighborhood, adding a 955-square-meter multi-purpose gym to Italian university athletics, according to FederCUSI.
The facility features a 302-seat grandstand and dedicated spaces for athletes with disabilities, alongside a 100-square-meter fitness room, an 80-square-meter weight room, and a 150-square-meter judo hall. The development also includes over 300 square meters of locker rooms and 1,000 square meters of outdoor recreational areas. Construction on a second gym nearby is scheduled for completion by 2027.
«Entrate, provate, fate vostro questo luogo», John McCourt, rector of the Universita di Macerata, told FederCUSI. «È pensando a voi, alla vostra vita qui a Macerata, che abbiamo voluto e realizzato questo investimento».
Leadership marks milestone
The inauguration highlighted long-standing contributions to regional athletics, including Antonio De Introna, who has served as CUS Macerata president since 1964. Enzo Valentini, vice-president of CUS Macerata, represented him at the ceremony.
«Faccio le veci immeritatamente del nostro presidente», Valentini told FederCUSI. «Totò è il CUS e per lui questo è un sogno che si realizza».
Valentini said that the infrastructure strengthens ties between the academic institution and the local community through competitive sports sections. The ceremony also featured attendance from FederCUSI President Antonio Dima and regional delegate Roberto Cambriani.
Frequently asked questions
What sports can be played in the main hall?
The 955-square-meter multi-purpose gym hosts national-level competitions for volleyball, basketball, and five-a-side football.
Who attended the Santa Croce opening?
Rector John McCourt, Vice-President Enzo Valentini, Mayor Sandro Parcaroli, and regional delegate Roberto Cambriani attended the opening ceremony.
When will the second gym open?
The project schedule targets completion for the second gymnasium by 2027.
Worth a look