Spotlight on women's final ambassador Panico
Wednesday, May 25, 2016
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"Having the final in Italy is a great chance to move women’s football forward," says Patrizia Panico, an Italy striker nearing 200 caps and still going strong at 41.
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Patrizia Panico's passion for the women's game remains undimmed. Now 41, the Italy and Fiorentina striker has over 100 international goals and nearly 200 caps to her name, to go along with ten Serie A title. Now she says it is time to get more of the country hooked, and Thursday's UEFA Women's Champions League final in Reggio Emilia represents a great opportunity to do so.
"I think that having the final in Italy is a great chance to move women's football forward because we have the opportunity to make everyone aware of women's football, from all angles and covering all Italians, not just those who are passionate about women's football. I see it as an opportunity for me and the other ambassadors to help the profession grow in terms of raising awareness.
"The sport is receiving so much attention because of the Champions League and the national team. I think the FIGC [Italian Football Federation] has been making and is continuing to make a considerable effort in terms of communication and the media. Obviously, seeing objective growth means results are being achieved on the pitch."
Click on the video player above to hear more from Patrizia Panico.