The 2002-03 campaign was a season of soaring ambition for Triestina as Alabardati finished a formidable 5th in Serie B, mounting an intense push for promotion to the top flight. Leading the charge was the prolific Dino Fava, whose phenomenal 22 goals earned him the Capocannoniere title and proved decisive in a campaign built on thrilling performances. It was a standout year that marked the team's closest attempt yet to return to the Serie A and remains a defining chapter in the club's modern history.