Belluno Volley has added a high-profile addition to its roster: a professional of the caliber of Gian Luca Schmidt, who will serve as commercial director of the club chaired by Sandro Da Rold.
IN LOVE WITH THE DOLOMITES – A Milanese born and bred, with a mother from Verona, he was Italian squash vice-champion and now plays golf and padel in Serie D: “I have a partner and will soon have a new dog,” he introduces himself. “I love spending my free time playing competitive sports, reading books of various genres, listening to jazz, and doing a bit of everything. I’m in love with the Dolomites, so much so that I’ve always been there. And Belluno fascinates me.”
PATH – He speaks four languages, has a degree in Economics, and holds a Master’s degree in Strategic Marketing and Sponsorship from Miami: “In Florida, I learned how Americans interpret sponsorship and how they can create value through sport, including through entertainment.” His career in sports began in 2004: after working for several multinationals, he collaborated with Inter Milan in marketing. From there, he joined RCS Sport, where he covered two Giro d’Italias, Strade Bianche, Tirreno-Adriatico, Milan-Sanremo, the Italian Golf Open, and beach volleyball. He then moved to Udinese and the clubs managed by the Pozzo family: Watford in England and Granada in Spain. A rewarding five-year period followed, before arriving at Hellas Verona as commercial director.
MEETING – The connection with the Rhinos? Almost by chance: “While playing Padel, I met the sporting director Alessandro Carniel. He introduced me to the club’s ambitious vision, and after a discussion with President Da Rold, here I am. Without arrogance or presumption, I am pleased to offer my experience to ensure that Belluno Volley is a brand project, as well as a volleyball one. With four guiding principles: the territory, social commitment, on-field objectives, and business. Schmidt specializes in transforming sports organizations towards advanced business models and managing large international partnerships. But above all, he is in love with the magical world of spikes: “One of my dearest friends is Andrea Zorzi, and it is no coincidence that volleyball has always sparked interest in me. And profound emotions.”
