PORT CHARLOTTE, FLA – The Italian American Baseball Foundation (IABF) continued its commitment to international baseball development with a meaningful visit to Port Charlotte, Florida, where it connected directly with members of the Italian National Team as preparations intensify for the upcoming World Baseball Classic in Houston.

IABF leaders Carmine Gangone and Chris R. Vaccaro helped coordinate and complete the delivery of essential baseball equipment and gear to the national program, including a pitching machine. The handoff represents another tangible investment in the growth and competitiveness of Italian baseball on the global stage.

The equipment was officially received by Gibo Gerali, head of development for Team Italy, as part of a collaborative effort involving the University of Tampa and Italian American coaching leaders Joe Urso and Sam Militello. This partnership stems from groundwork laid last summer, when IABF officials joined Urso and Militello in Italy to conduct a series of youth baseball development clinics aimed at strengthening the sport’s foundation overseas.

Beyond the equipment donation, the visit offered an opportunity for Gangone and Vaccaro to spend time with Gerali, coaches, and players within the national program, further reinforcing relationships that are central to long term growth and international collaboration.

The initiative reflects IABF’s broader mission to elevate baseball in Italy through a multifaceted approach that includes equipment support, scholarship opportunities, youth camps and clinics, and expanded marketing and visibility for the game both domestically and abroad.

Additional coverage highlighting IABF’s World Baseball Classic sendoff and sports diplomacy efforts will be shared in the coming days.