A Lifetime with the Violet: Dr. Calafiore Celebrates 80 Years of Dedication to Viola Basket
Today marks a important milestone for Italian basketball: the 80th birthday of dr. Gianni Calafiore, the long-serving social doctor of Viola Basket Reggio Calabria. His remarkable 49 years of continuous service to the club represents a potentially unparalleled commitment in Italian – and perhaps global - sports medicine, solidifying his status as an icon within the “BlueArancio” institution.
Dr. Calafiore’s dedication was recently recognized with the highest honor from CONI, the Italian National olympic Committee, presented in a ceremony attended by President Giovanni Malagò. “I am deeply moved,” Dr. Calafiore shared at the event, “as I see this award as the culmination of a career entirely devoted to the ‘Neroatrancio’ colors.”
His journey with Viola began in 1977, immediately following his specialization in Sports Medicine. ”I’m incredibly proud to say I’ve experienced the entirety of Viola’s history,” he reflects. “We transitioned to professionalism with players like Benvenuti, then Zorzi, Recalcati, Lardo, and so many others. And, of course, Gaetano Gebbia, who was a mentor to us all. We grew up alongside each other; he arrived in Reggio at just 21 years old, and we shared everything.”
As Viola Basket prepares for a new and promising championship season, Dr. Calafiore remains enterprising. “My dream is to see the violet team competing once again in Serie A1,” he states, also expressing his hope to reach the 50-year service milestone, now within reach. Despite having begun to pass the torch to his son, Vincenzo - also a doctor and a championship winner with Viola’s cadet team – Dr. Calafiore has no plans to retire.
More than just a career, Dr. calafiore’s story is a testament to passion, unwavering loyalty, and a deep love for the club and it’s community. Wishing Dr. Calafiore a very happy birthday, and looking forward to many more years of his dedication to Viola Basket.
