Igor Gorgonzola Novara enters the 2025-2026 Lega Serie A1 season, starting October 6, as a team to keep an eye on, aiming to challenge for the national title and make waves in the CEV Women's Champions League.
Coming off a fourth-place finish in the 2024-2025 Serie A1 playoffs and a triumphant CEV Volleyball Cup win in 2025—their third in the competition—Novara’s mix of grit and talent positions them as serious frontrunners under coach Lorenzo Bernardi, even as Imoco Conegliano remains the formidable favorite.
Their recent Courmayeur Cup triumph on September 27, a prestigious preseason tournament against Serie A1’s elite (Conegliano, Milano, Scandicci), showcased their potential. A dramatic comeback sealed the title, proving Novara’s readiness to compete at the highest level.
Key players to watch:
Key players to watch:
Mayu Ishikawa (Outside Hitter, Japan): The Courmayeur final hero, her dynamic attacks turned the tide; a rising star with scoring flair.
Tatiana Tolok (Opposite, Russia): CEV Volleyball Cup MVP with 22 points in the final (68% efficiency), her power is crucial for big moments.
Britt Herbots (Outside Hitter, Belgium): A new comer from Savino De Bene, her explosive attacks and experience (including a 2025 Champions League final) make her a leader on the wing.
Sara Bonifacio (Middle Blocker, Italy): The team’s new captain, her leadership and defensive prowess at the net, combined with her experience, anchor Novara’s core.
Whilst they aren’t the outright favorites, Novara’s blend of skill, determination, and recent successes makes them a formidable rival for any team, as they set their sights on securing top spots in both the Italian Serie A and the European stage.
Photos: Igor Gorgonzola Novara
