One of the foremost sports non-profits in the world has endorsed Marco Mazzieri for president of the Federation of Italian Baseball and Softball.
The Italian American Baseball Foundation, commonly referred to as IABF, posted a statement from its board on social media supporting Mazzieri, the former Team Italy manager who spent two decades as a player in Serie A, the top tier of Italian baseball.
Mazzieri is running for president against incumbent Andrea Marcon in an election held on November 16 in Italy.
“The IABF is endorsing Marco Mazzieri for president of the Federation of Italian Baseball and Softball in the upcoming election,” IABF wrote in a statement. “Marco’s extensive experience as a player and coach and his proven leadership skills make him the ideal candidate to guide the federation into a new era of success.”
The statement also said, “His dedication to the growth of baseball and softball in Italy will be unmatched, as seen through his numerous accomplishments with the national team. Marco’s vision for fostering talent, expanding the sport’s reach, and promoting a strong sense of community among players, coaches, and fans will undoubtedly drive Italian baseball and softball to new heights. His commitment to excellence, innovation, and teamwork ensures that the future of the sport in Italy is in great hands.”
Mazzieri managed Team Italy at the World Baseball Classic in 2007, 2013, and 2017 and led Italy to back-to-back European titles in 2010 and 2012 and an Intercontinental Cup bronze medal in 2010. He was also the European manager in the Global Baseball Games against Samurai Japan in March 2024.
In recent years, he has partnered with former big leaguer and Team Italy catcher Francisco Cervelli at a youth academy in Castiglione della Pescaia.
As a player in Serie A, he helped Grosetto win Campionati Italiani in 1986 and 1989 and the Coppa Italia in 1981 and 1999.
Mazzieri has committed to youth baseball and player development and has traveled to several Italian cities to explain his vision for the future of Italian baseball. Through a press person, Mazzieri said he would release a statement about the IABF endorsement soon.
(Graphic/images from Conto Pieno, Mazzieri Campaign Channels)
