Behind every ski fan page, there’s a person with passion, memories, and a story that connects them deeply to the sport. For Giorgia — better known as Gio, the founder of @skii.italy — it all began on March 17, 2021, almost by accident.
“One evening at home, I decided to open the page, thinking it wouldn’t last long and that I would soon close it,” she remembers with a smile. But the project didn’t fade away. Instead, it grew and transformed into one of the most passionate ski fan communities in Italy.
Looking back, Gio sees that the roots of her project go much deeper. Her mother was a ski fan before the age of social media, collecting photos of great athletes, gluing them into a notebook, and writing about races and training. “Perhaps it was her who started it all,” Gio says.
A Family Tradition
Skiing has always been part of daily life for Gio’s family. Winter weekends meant waking up, turning on the TV to watch the races, cheering for Italian and international athletes, or heading out to the slopes themselves. Over time, what started as tradition turned into something much bigger.
“Since 2021, this passion has grown and expanded to other winter sports as well. Now I can’t imagine life without it,” Gio shares.
Finding Strength Through Criticism
Like many who start a public project online, Gio wasn’t spared from criticism. At first, it was hard — hard enough that she even thought about giving up. But then, encouragement came from where she least expected it: the athletes themselves.
“They reminded me that criticism often comes from envy. With time, I received so many compliments and kind messages that the bad things faded away.”
Memorable Encounters
Running SKII.ITALY has also opened doors to unforgettable moments. Gio still remembers the first time she met Sofia Goggia, by pure chance at a service station near her home. “It was just a few words and one photo, but something beautiful was born from that moment.”
Since then, she has attended events, fairs, and races where athletes recognized her and thanked her for her work. The highlight so far? Her first World Cup in Sestriere, where Marta Bassino won. “What a joy that day!”
But perhaps the most moving experience came in Sölden: “Hearing my name, receiving a flood of compliments — it was truly emotional.”
Community and Gratitude
What makes SKII.ITALY special is not just the updates and photos, but the personal touch. Gio manages the page completely on her own, making sure to reply to everyone. “I don’t think I’ve ever left anyone without an answer. It wouldn’t be fair.”
And the messages she receives in return are powerful. One fan once wrote:
“She’s Giorgia and she runs the Ski Italia page. Follow her. She’s amazing! Anyone who loves skiing knows her work. She’s passionate and wonderful!”
Moments like these, along with the thanks she receives from athletes themselves, are what keep her going.
Looking Ahead
For Gio, SKII.ITALY is here to stay. Whether it turns into a full-time job or not, she dreams of working more closely with athletes — perhaps as a journalist or social media manager. “It would be a dream to live the races up close, to hear their stories, to be part of that world.”
She’s also open to new ideas, like partnerships with ski brands or even podcasts. “Who knows, maybe the future will bring formats like this!”
A Word of Advice
To anyone who dreams of starting a similar project, Gio says:
“Always believe in what you do. Open that page you think will be nothing — because, as in my case, it can become everything. Trust me, athletes are happy and appreciative when they see fans create something for them.”
Photo credit: skii.italy
Gallery:
