The University of Trieste today awarded an honorary master's degree in psychology to Julio Velasco, one of the most influential figures in international sport in recent decades, in recognition of the originality and consistency with which he has integrated psychological principles into training, group management and performance culture.

This is the first honorary degree conferred by an Italian university on ‘Maestro’ Julio Velasco, a coach who has led national teams to Olympic gold and silver medals, two World Championships, five World Leagues, one World Cup and six continental titles including European, Asian and Pan American Championships.

The honorary degree was awarded on the initiative of the University of Trieste’s Department of Life Sciences, which for 25 years has hosted a Laboratory of Sport Psychology.

The ceremony took place in a packed Aula Magna, also thanks to the strong presence of representatives from federations and sporting associations – a testament to the extraordinary cultural impact that the La Plata-born coach has had in his field and to what he represents, in terms of image, mindset and innovation, for the entire Italian sporting movement.

The event opened with speeches by Rector Roberto Di Lenarda, Luca Ubaldeschi, editor-in-chief of the NEM group’s publications, and Fabrizio Brancoli, deputy editor responsible for the local newspaper Il Piccolo and events. All highlighted, through the metaphor of sport, the human and cultural impact of Velasco’s vision, which has the power to speak to a wide audience with words that are both simple and profound.

In the citation read by Professor Ivan Donati, Head of the Department of Life Sciences, Velasco is recognised as a communication and management model who has succeeded in developing both individual and collective potential in sport and organisational settings, promoting a culture of performance that is conscious, ethical and sustainable. His ideas have reached well beyond the playing field, inspiring fields that may seem distant, such as business, education and managerial training.

The academic laudatio by Professor Tiziano Agostini, Professor of General Psychology and head of the Laboratory of Sport Psychology, retraced an exceptional human and professional journey: from the difficult years of post-dictatorship Argentina, to his arrival in Italy and the leadership of the ‘Generation of Phenomena’; then his return to success with national teams on three continents, culminating in the 2024 Olympic gold medal with the Italian women’s team. A powerful example of how sport can become a space for growth, responsibility and cultural transformation.

'My wish,' said Julio Velasco, addressing the students of the University, especially those studying Psychology, 'is that you may not only successfully complete your university studies, but above all, be able to fully live what you have studied. Because the real challenges begin after university, and that's where more strength is needed. My wish, therefore, is that you may truly practice your profession, practice psychology, and make it a living part of your life.'

‘With this award,’ said Rector Roberto Di Lenarda, ‘the University of Trieste recognises the value of an individual of exceptional stature, capable of combining rigour, vision, and human sensitivity. His thinking and his example have had an impact far beyond the world of sport: they have spoken to generations of enthusiasts, educators, managers, students, and citizens, contributing to a profound reflection on the role of motivation, merit, and trust in the growth of individuals and communities.’

By awarding the honorary degree to Julio Velasco, the University of Trieste not only honours a figure who, through his thinking and actions, has been able to trigger important transformations in his field, but also renews its commitment to sharing with the world of sport initiatives focused on the well-being of individuals and the growth of young people, promoting the values of education, human development, and community living.