In a football world dominated by men, "one woman has been quietly working in the lower leagues of Italy for a number of years," according to Elliott Bretland of the London DAILY MAIL.
Elena Pianigiani, "has been the vice-president of Italian fourth division side US Poggibonsi since the age of 21." Former Siena Dir
Antonello Pianigiani purchased 51% of the club in '08. Buying the remaining 49% two years later, Pianigiani "soon appointed his daughter as the club's vice-president." Pianigiani revealed she did not hesitate in accepting the position and said, "It was unusual because I was only 21. When you’re that age, it’s usual for a father to give his daughter a new bag, not a football team." While Pianigiani admits that football is dominated by males, she "is encouraged by the progress women are making in the game." Pianigiani: "Calcio is very macho, but something is certainly changing with more women appearing, though I believe purely technical aspects are suitable for only men." Pianigiani is not "the only female making her way in the game." Rosella Sensi of Serie A side Roma and Barbara Berlusconi of AC Milan "are two women who hold positions of authority within the Italian top-flight" (DAILY MAIL, 9/25).
