Benvenuta Hola!

Ternana Women is launching a prestigious editorial project aimed at kids (ages 7–11), built on the union between literature and football. Because football — especially the women’s game — is a powerful tool for promoting cultural growth and fundamental human values such as empathy, anti-bullying awareness, and the firm rejection of any racial or gender discrimination.

The initiative takes the form of an illustrated novel dedicated to women’s football, titled “Hola and the Big Dream”, written by Philip Osbourne (author of international bestsellers such as Diary of a Nerd, published in 48 countries), in collaboration with Terni-based illustrator Roberta Procacci (character design, cover and props) and Max Avo(illustrations).

The story unfolds in a very specific geographical setting. “In the heart of Terni,” the opening lines read, “there were secret corners that protected the dreams of young boys and girls who loved football. On a small pitch… Hola spent most of her time dreaming of playing her first match with a real team.”

The book, distributed free of charge by Ternana Women for strictly educational purposes and with no commercial intent, tackles important themes with elegance and “lightness” — in the best sense of the word — using a pop language that younger readers love.

The publication, created in collaboration with Almond Entertainment and Sport, is sponsored by the Municipality of Terni and has received the free patronage of the Italian FA Women’s Serie B Division.

The presentation event was held at the new Ternana Women headquarters in Via Aleardi 10/a, featuring speeches from Paolo Tagliavento (CEO of Ternana Women), Isabella Cardone (General Manager), Deborah Salvatori Rinaldi (Head of Communications), Dario Maria Gulli (Creative Director, Almond), and Federica Di Criscio (team captain). Institutional greetings were delivered by councillors Viviana Altamura (education, welfare and social policies) and Marco Schenardi (sports).

The next appointment will be on February 21, with local school groups at Palazzo Gazzoli, Via del Teatro Romano 13.