MORE THAN LETTER FROM THE CHAIR JUST A UNION! The Azzurri Soccer Wall of Fame

When the Azzurri Soccer Club was conceived and our vision to build a Soccer Center of Excellence was approved in 1999, we could not have understood then how important the project would become. After numerous years of great memories from the love and passionate sacrifice given by so many, it is with great honour and pride that tonight we launch The Toronto Azzurri Soccer Wall of Fame.

As efforts continue to develop aspiring Canadian soccer youth, the Toronto Azzurri Youth Sport Village through its programming, will do its part to pass on our knowledge and experience to those we touch in our community.

However, unless we educate the new arrivals about the stories of our heroes, and what it took for our pioneers and builders to lay the game’s foundations in our great city, we cannot complete their sport education.

On behalf of all the people who lit the torch, who persevered, led only by their hearts and passions, to those who dared to risk and fail, and finally to The LiUNA Families are proud to be part those who inspired us to be the best that we could be, I can offer only my sincere and eternal thanks.

of the Toronto Azzurri Soccer Clu b and Tonight’s first twelve honourees are just the beginning. There are so many who deserve to be recognized. This ceremony will occur annually so please the Azzurri LiUNA Club house. help by assisting us to select those who deserve our appreciation. I ask you to join us in support of a project that celebrates our Community heroes! Congratulations to the Inductees into the Thank you and have a wonderful evening.

Toronto Azzurri Soccer Wall of Fame.

Robert Iarusci, Chairman Toronto Azzurri Soccer Club 2 Est. 1968 TORONTO AZZURRI WALL OF FAME 3 1950s 1. Fred Hamilton Park

1960s 12 11 2. Stanely Park 5 3. Varsity 4. Earlscourt Park 9 4 5. Keelesdale Park 3 1970s 6 6. Brockton Stadium 10 7. 1 2 8.

8 9. York Stadium

7 1980s 10. Centennial Stadium 11. ICONIC PLAYING FIELDS 12. W.L. McKenzie C.I.

4 TORONTO AZZURRI WALL OF FAME 5 TORONTO AZZURRI S.C. BOARD MEMBERS

Tony Garci Orazio DeCientis President Social Director

Robert Iarusci Vince Iarusci Chariman Marketing/IT Director

Ralph Ciccia Pasquale Pietrantonio Vice President Director at Large

Tony Cipriani Frank Iaizzo Congratulations from TFC Treasurer Director at Large Fortunato Ferbrano We would like to congratulate all inductees into the inaugural Secretary Toronto Azzurri Soccer “Wall of Fame”.

Thank you for your outstanding dedication and positive impact to the game of soccer in the Italo-Canadian community.

Steven Caldwell Director of Community Relations President, TFC

6 TORONTO AZZURRI WALL OF FAME 7 SAM CICCOLINI BUILDERS/PIONEERS Co-Founder of the Westwood Young Generation Soccer Club in 1968. The senior team was called Toronto Azzurri and played in the Premier Division of the T&D. The club became the farm club of Toronto Italia.

The Ciccolini Family immigrated to in 1956 from the Club went on to showcase arguably the strongest crop of Pescosolido, Frosinone. . In two years, Sam became local soccer talent Canada has ever produced: Players like CONGRATULATIONS a proud Canadian and together with Donna began to lay Marcantonio, D’Agostino, Iarusci, Barbieri, Morandini, Raso, down the foundation for what has become an incredible Ceolin, DeCiantis and so much more. resumé of selfless contribution to charity, benevolence and TO ALL INDUCTEES ON BEHALF OF While Aldo continued to steer the soccer side, Sam went countless hours of service towards so many community on to drive Minor Hockey. He started with the causes, groundbreaking projects and of course, the local Canucks and Rangers through the ‘70’s, then started up sports landscape. MASTERS INSURANCE LIMITED the Woodbridge Minor Hockey including the amalgamation Sam has always had an enormous love for soccer and of Maple and Thornhill from 1981-1991. Sam carried on to hockey. Much of his free time early in his formative Canadian become the Secretary-Treasurer of the Hockey years was dedicated to developing and strengthening the Federation from 1987-1995. young athletic character and building respect as young Italo- Sam has been recognized for his countless hours of COMMERCIAL SURETY BONDING HOME & AUTO GROUP & PERSONAL BENEFITS Canadian citizens. Sam soon discovered that there were community service for so many organizations; too many to obstacles to overcome within the established hockey and list here. However, it should be noted that Sam was awarded soccer clubs. Many young Italo-Canadian boys were not The Order of Canada (2005) and The Order of Ontario (1999) readily received by these organizations. 1.888.673.6495 as well as The Commander of the Star of Solidarity of Italy in It was fate that brought Sam and Aldo Principe together. 2008, and the Jubilee Medal Award from the Gov’t of Canada. Aldo managed The County Savings Bank and Loans, and Sam remains quite active today within the Community through Sam’s new Insurance company was situated on the second his involvement in politics, amateur sports and co-chairing floor of that building at the corner of St. Clair Ave. West and and organizing many groups and events. Sam is very proud Boon Ave. Along with Joe Vaccari, Nino Sinicropi, Carmen of his Italian heritage and his Canadian Citizenship. TORONTO ♦ HAMILTON ♦ ♦ WINDSOR ♦ ROCHESTER, NY and Bruno DeNino, Sam and Aldo created The Westwood Young Generation Soccer and Hockey Club. Their home was at 15 Robina Ave., the YMCA. Over the next 15 years, 8 TORONTO AZZURRI WALL OF FAME 9 JOHNNY LOMBARDI BUILDERS/PIONEERS

One of the founders of Eastern Canadian Pro Soccer League launched in 1961. This league featured some great stars such as Sir , , Carlos Medetieri and drew large crowds at .

In 1960, Johnny Lombardi, the noted businessman, grocer The highlight was a challenge between Toronto Italia and promoter of everything Italo-Canadian in the city of President Johnny Lombardi and Toronto Roma’s president Toronto, teamed up with Toronto Telegram columnist George Ted Laraia. Just days before the two city rivals were to meet Gross, Macedonian grocer Steve Stavros, and Hockey Night in the deciding game of 1963, Lombardi and Laraia agreed in Canada host Ed Firkin, to deliver a top brand of soccer to that the losing president of that challenge match would have Toronto. to walk up and down College Street the very next day in their underwear with a placard slung around their neck praising Johnny Lombardi became the owner/president of Toronto the opponent. Italia, and along with Toronto Roma, , Cantalia and Hamilton Steelers formed the Eastern Canadian The ECPSL over the eight years of its existence created the Professional Soccer League (ECPSL). The league debuted at soccer buzz that stimulated the growth and development of Varsity Stadium in the spring of 1961. Johnny Lombardi’s Italia minor soccer clubs like Westwood Young Generation and the defeated Toronto City 3-2 in front of 18,000 people. Lombardi, Soccer Club that would produce a strong crop of was a cagey promoter and understood how to corral this prospective talent into the 1970’s. new pulse. Together with his pals Sam Schneiderman (Sam the Record Man) and Director , they created heated rivalries between the teams that this city has never seen since.

10 TORONTO AZZURRI WALL OF FAME 11 GINO VENTRESCA BUILDERS/PIONEERS Legendary President of Toronto Italia Soccer Club (1969-1976). Won two Championships. Four NSL League titles. Developed 15 players that represented Canada internationally.

Gino Ventresca was born in Torre dei Nolfi (L’Aquila) Italy Ventresca’s Toronto Italia Teams in the early 70’s were top on October 06, 1925. Immigrating to Canada in 1949, he of mind in the local sports scene. York Stadium provided quickly established himself as a leader in the Italo-Canadian the backdrop for large average crowds (7,000), and these community. His passion for life was reflected in his business, teams featured seasoned veterans and a steady supply of as the founder of Ventresca Travel Agency Ltd., where he home-grown talent. Some of these players included Robert pioneered group travel to Mexico and became affectionately Iarusci, , Paul D’Agostino, Jack Brand known as Mr. Acapulco. and Carmello Barbieri. His love for the game of soccer manifested itself in the early The highlight of Ventresca’s Toronto Italia S.C. adventure 1960’s and again in the early 1970’s when as president of the was back to back Canadian Professional Club Champions Toronto Italia Soccer Club he brought the game to high levels (1974-1975). Gino was very well respected and exuded a high CITY 1940 Albion Rd. by combing the best of local talent with players of international level of credibility amongst the players, coaches, and fans. renown such as Jose Altafini and Paolo Cimpiel. He brought Etobicoke, Ontario M9W 5T2 Gino passed away in 2011 but rest assured he’s still chanting ENVIRONMENTAL the Italian National Military team twice which featured players FORZA ITALIA. from such as , Vincenzo D’Amico, and Tel: 416.679.2489 (CITY) SERVICES LTD. . Toll Free: 888.520.2489 (CITY) Fax: 416.679.2490 www.cityenvironmental.ca

Ray Cell: 416.881.0723

12 TORONTO AZZURRI WALL OF FAME 13 CARLO DELMONTE COACHES/MANAGERS One of the most winningest coaches in the GTA over the last 60 years. Five Canadian Championships with his Downsview Youth Teams in the 70’s. NSL Titles with both Hamilton Steelers and Toronto Italia in the 80’s.

When it came to winning, there might not ever have been an Hamilton Steelers (NSL). He led his team to the coveted equal to Carlo in the City of Toronto. Born in Barletta, Italy, in triple crown winning the League Championship, the League 1945, it was fate that landed Carlo in Toronto in 1954. Carlo Cup, and the Canadian Club championship. This team will quickly took to the soccer fields playing for the Toronto Italia be honoured on May 12th and inducted into the Hamilton “Puccini’s.” But his real talent as a soccer coach and recruiter Soccer Hall of Fame. was to be discovered in the 1970’s. Carlo moved to Toronto Italia in 1982 and led his team to an Together with Mario and Joe Cortellucci, and President undefeated season capturing both League and Cup Titles. Tony DiMonte, Carlo led the Downsview Soccer Club to five Toronto Italia also defeated Glasgow Celtic in a stunning 4-1 consecutive Canadian Championships from 1972-1976, an exhibition game. In 1983, Carlo moved back to Hamilton and accomplishment that has yet to be duplicated in Canadian led the Steelers to the Eastern in Minor Soccer history. Carlo then moved on to senior soccer the new Canadian Professional Soccer League. That year, in the province of Ontario, starting in 1977 with Macedonia of Carlo notched another impressive international win with a 3-2 the National Soccer League (NSL). The next year Carlo drove victory over touring Udinese of Serie A Italy. down the QEW to coach the Hamilton Italo- and the Today Carlo is a tireless worker having raised over $150,000 following year came a close second to First Portuguese as for Cancer research through Women’s Recreational Adult League runner-ups. He completed the golden horseshoe Soccer. His goal, (and don’t think he won’t reach it) is to tour by coaching the Buffalo Blizzards (NSL) in 1980. raise $35,000,000 dollars (one dollar for every Canadian) for 1981 became Carlo’s dream year. He moved back to Cancer research. Hamilton, this time with owner Mario DiBartolomeo of the

14 TORONTO AZZURRI WALL OF FAME 15 GUS MANDARINO COACHES/MANAGERS General of Toronto Azzurri from 1980-1985. The team won annual League/Cup trophies. Gus also brought in the great Omar Sivori to coach. Gus was also the chief driver of the creation and realization of the Toronto Azzurri Youth Sports Village which opened April 29, 2014.

After arriving in Toronto in 1961, from Rende Calabria, Gus President (1973-1979). The early ’80s would represent Gus’ Mandarino quickly immersed himself into the local community glory years. In 1980, he helped broker the acquisition of soccer fabric. He joined the Italo-Canadian Recreation Club Toronto Italia SC. Gus became the General Manager until out of the Brandon Hall (Brandon Ave.) as a player in their 1985. These were hugely successful years for both the Minor youth system. In 1963, Gus became the Managing Director and Senior Teams. In 1982, Gus brought in legendary player of the youth club and together with coach Frank DiGirolamo, Omar Sivori to coach. He and Carlo Delmonte were selected helped to build the participating boys and girls to over 1500. as GM and coach of the year. Gus was also instrumental in negotiating the first player transfer of local star Enzo Concina Mentored by his new boss, Mr. Cocomile, a prominent to Cesena SS for $25,000. lawyer, Gus was inspired to become the President of the Calabria Soccer Club (T&D League) and this triggered In 1986, Gus was directly involved in the ownership and his long-term vision for player development and Club management of The Rockets of the NEW Canadian management. Through the late ‘60’s and into the ‘70s, Gus Professional League (CPL) together with Basil Policaro, Joe managed the Calabria Minor System and worked closely D’Urso, Joe Volpentesta, Mario Rollo and Tony Ciamarra. with some important and influential individuals, namely The adventure was short lived, but Gus teamed up with Enzo Hector Marinaro, Divo DelBecchi, Luca Tomanelli and Emilio Iantorno and Tony Fontana in 1994 to restructure the Rockets Hernandez. Gus also interfaced and built strong relationships in the APSL with coach Giorgio Piotti. The culmination to with Aldo Principe, Sam Ciccolini and Nino Sinicropi from the an impressive soccer biography happened on April 29th, Westwood Minor Soccer Club leading to a steady stream of 2014 when the Toronto Azzurri SC opened their new Azzurri talented youth players to the Toronto Italia SC under President LIUNA Community Clubhouse. This achievement was the Gino Ventresca. objective of a long-term vision shared by Gus Mandarino and other Toronto Azzurri members back in 2001. Through Gus met Johnny Lombardi in 1968 and worked closely under Gus’ leadership and contacts with Councillor Peter LiPreti of Mr. Lombardi assisting in organizing social events and Italian The City of Toronto, Tribute Homes, and Carmen Principato, Musical Concerts. Under Joe Picinnini, then President of the Business Manager of LIUNA Local 506, we now have a National Soccer League (NSL), Gus moved into the head home where Sport and Educational programming for youth office of the NSL as Director, Treasurer and eventually and “At Risk” children are executed.

16 TORONTO AZZURRI WALL OF FAME 17 ALDO PRINCIPE COACHES/MANAGERS Infl uencer. Co-founder of Young Generation Soccer Club. Aldo is considered the key driver of developing organized soccer for the Italo-Canadian Community. He was also GM of the 1976 Toronto Metros-Croatia Passionate fan. and the architect of that team including his bold acquisition of the Skilled manager. Portuguese Black Panther, Eusebio. Aldo was perhaps the most influential person in the growth would need the “aspiration” piece to the puzzle. Under Fiorigi and development of the game of soccer in the City of Toronto Pagliuso, Westwood would have a senior team, TORONTO for the Italo-Canadian community at a time when certainly the AZZURRI. Now the kids would have their dream team to which Visionary. conditions were not the most favourable. The minor soccer to aspire! scene in 1963 was dominated by strong Anglo groups, and The “Azzurri” became the talk of the town, winning the Toronto Aldo realized that he needed to find a way to harness the and District Premier title in 1968. Principe would then tie his Italo-Canadian youth’s hunger and passion for the sport. Mentor. Youth Organization to Toronto Italia in 1970 to become the farm Aldo was multi-talented. He was a skilled manager of people system. It is no wonder that the Westwood Young Generation and their support groups. He was strategic and used many Teams produced 13 players that went on to represent clever tactics to hit his targets and realize his goals. He was the Canada internationally at all levels of youth and senior levels Trailblazer. Bank Manager for the County Savings and Loan Corporation throughout the 1970’s. situated at the southeast corner of St. Clair Ave. W. & Boon Aldo’s greatest personal achievement came in 1976 when as Ave. It must have been divine fate to have a young insurance General Manager he put the pieces together to create a North entrepreneur, Sam Ciccolini located on the second floor. They American Soccer League Champion - The Toronto Metros- hit it off immediately, and by 1964 they created the Westwood Croatia. With a strong Croatian player base, Aldo brought his Young Generation Soccer and Hockey Sports Club. Their Tonight we honour Aldo Principe, Westwood boys (Iarusci, Marcantonio, D’Agostino, Ercoli, Brand) headquarters was the Robina Ave YMCA. Aldo and Sam began to the “SHOW” and then went out to get perhaps the greatest a 2017 Toronto Azzurri Soccer Wall of Fame Inductee. to form their team, and by 1966 the club began to blossom with player to have ever played in Toronto, the Portuguese Black Managers Joe Vaccari, Nino Sinicropi, Coaches Joe Grande, Panther, Eusebio. He went on to become a Player Agent and John Paolis, Angelo Angelucci, Ralph Pisani, Peter Felicetti travelled over Canada and the US at the height of the NASL. His and Fiorigi Pagliuso. real desire was to stabilize a Toronto base for a constant turnover www.icsavings.ca It was Aldo Principe that realized the club would need a of local talent for placement internationally. That never came to strong foundation and he anchored the Youth movement with be. Aldo owes so much of his triumphs and contributions to his a major sponsor, Mio/Brio Beverages-owned by Elio Madonia. wife Maria and daughter Rosali who supported him faithfully His minor teams now became the Brio Flyers and Mio Majors, from 14 Troutbrooke Rd. in Downsview. amoung others. He also brought in Carmine and Bruno DiNino 18 (Olympic Trophies). Aldo was a visionary, and he knew the Club TORONTO AZZURRI WALL OF FAME 19 MORE THAN JUST A UNION! ROBERT IARUSCI

Working Hard for PLAYERS Working Families

EXECUTIVE BOARD One of the original 11 inductees into the Canadian Soccer Hall CARMEN PRINCIPATO TONY DO VALE ROLY BERNARDINI LUIS PIMENTEL NICK REPOLE PETER GLAZE JACK EUSTAQUIO of Fame in the year 2000. Played over 250 games in the NASL BUSINESS MANAGER SECRETARY-TREASURER PRESIDENT VICE-PRESIDENT RECORDING-SECRETARY EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBER EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBER from 1976-1985. Won four Soccer Bowls. Captained Canada and was capped 29 times. Played alongside Soccer’s Royalty SENIOR LEGAL COUNSEL LEGAL COUNSEL REGIONAL ORGANIZING CO-ORDINATOR OFFICE MANAGER DISPATCHER COMPLIANCE CONTROL OFFICER MICHAEL HANCOCK ALEXIS MANTELLO-CLEMENT ELIO TOPPAN ISABELLA COSTANZO HARDY JALLOH RENATO TAGLIONE including Pele, Eusebio, Beckenbauer, and Cruyff.

BUSINESS REPRESENTATIVES SUPPORT STAFF MIKE BETTENCOURT, MAMADOU BAH, JOE INACIO SAVERIO REPOLE, PAULA CARDOSO, MARY MAURO, PATRICIA LUM, MONIQUE SERINO VICKY HILL, FABRIZZIO MASSARI, JOE FURTADO, JOHN WALKER NATALIY KRASKOVSKY, CHRISTINA COLELLA DE PAOLA, SARAH AH LIM, MISHEL BIRFIR Bob is proudly the City of Toronto’s most accomplished in NASL history to win four Soccer Bowls. Bob was fortunate ORGANIZERS CARLO RICCI , TONY CASBARRO, PIERRE PRIMERANO, soccer player and a direct product of the minor soccer to have played alongside some of the game’s best players BRANDEN LEWIS, MATIAS MARROCCHI, ROMAN ROZMUS development program. He started his minor soccer, (Pele, Beckenbauer, Eusebio, , Carlos Alberto, 3750 Chesswood Drive, Toronto, ON M3J 2W6 • Tel: 416.638.0506 • Fax: 416.638.1334 • Website: www.local506.ca thanks to a chance encounter with Aldo Principe in 1964, ). Twice named to the NASL All-Star Team with the Westwood Young Generation Soccer Club in and played 263 NASL league and playoff games. Bob also (Robina Ave. YMCA). made 29 International appearances for Canada’s National Men’s team and was the team captain from 1978-1984. In Bob played with Westwood’s Mio Majors in 1970-1971 2000, Robert was one of the inaugural 11 inductees into the winning the Toronto and District Senior loop’s Premier Canadian Soccer Hall of Fame. League title 1971. He debuted with Toronto Italia (NSL) Congratulations Bobby in 1973 and played the next three years with that club Currently, Robert is the Chairman of the Toronto Azzurri winning the Canadian Club Championship back to back Soccer Club. His proudest moment was when the for the honourable induction into the inaugural (1974-1975). 6,000 sq.ft. Azzurri LIUNA Community Clubhouse was opened on April 29th, 2014 at the Toronto Azzurri Youth Robert enjoyed a ten-year professional career in the North Sports Village. The Azzurri execute year-round Educational, American Soccer League (NASL 1976-1985) playing with Toronto Azzurri Soccer Wall of Fame. Cultural, and Sports programming for our community youth Toronto Metros-Croatia, , Washington with a particular focus on “At Risk” children. Diplomats and San Diego Sockers. He was the only player We are so proud of your many accomplishments on and off the field. You are a true leader and special man.

Warmest wishes your friends, Nick and Nicki Perpick.

20 TORONTO AZZURRI WALL OF FAME 21 TONY LECCE PLAYERS Former Italian-Canadian soccer defender who earned nine caps with the Canadian national soccer team and played four seasons in the North American Soccer League. He played for Canada in ‘A’ internationals four times in 1968 and five times in 1972, all in World Cup qualifying.

Tony Lecce was the first home grown player from our Toronto Falcons of the new North American Soccer League Italo-Canadian Community that went on to carve out a (NASL) which became the Toronto Metros. Tony fondly professional soccer career and captain his country in World recalls two great highlight games in front of over 25,000 Cup competition. people at Varsity Stadium - vs. Eusebio’s Benfica in 1968 and vs. Pele’s Santos in 1971. The Lecce family immigrated to Toronto, Canada from Rome, Italy in 1957. Tony immediately started playing organized Tony went on to play for and captain Canada’s National soccer at his school St. Thomas Aquinas. The priest coach Soccer team over two World Cup Qualifying Series from there introduced Tony to Toronto Italia SC, and in 1961 he 1968-1973 earning 9 Caps. A jarring blow to his cruciate began playing for the Toronto Italia Juniors under coach ligament in 1973 suddenly cut Tony’s career short. He Alberto DaRosa. Alberto quickly realized that Tony should be recalls that back then, as with Bobby Orr, knee ailments moved from the center forward position to left back because were frequently misdiagnosed. Tony feels that had that injury of Tony’s poise, tactical awareness, and leadership skills. occurred today he would have been able to prolong his Tony talks fondly of that team he played on from 1961 to career. Tony is go grateful that playing soccer allowed him 1963 alongside great players such as Giulio Mattachione, three life highlights: Frank Soppelsa, Gus Falcione, Mario Storto and goalie 1. He met his future wife on a soccer flight to Montreal Mario Presotto. 2. He had the honour and privilege to play with and against In 1963, Tony, along with his older brother Adam, joined the some of the game’s greats and sustain lifetime friendships professional roster of Toronto Italia in the Eastern Canadian Capo Sgro congratulates the inaugural Professional Soccer League (ECPSL). For the next four 3. He was able to play for and captain his country 12 inductees into the Toronto Azzurri Wall of Fame years, Tony blossomed as a regular starter alongside international stars Carlos Meditieri, Giorgio Piotti, Jorgen Peterson and Bernardo Vargas. Tony then moved over to the

22 TORONTO AZZURRI WALL OF FAME 23 PASQUALE PIETRANTONIO Jack Oliveira | Business Manager PLAYERS Luis Camara Nelson Melo Secretary Treasurer President Considered one of the best that the local scene ever Bernardino Ferreira Marcello Di Giovanni produced. An original member of Toronto Azzurri Club in 1968 Vice-President Recording Secretary to then a central pivot for the early Toronto Italia Teams. Pat also Jaime Cortez Patrick Sheridan played for Hamilton Italo-Canadians. E-Board Member E-Board Member

Pasquale (Pat) Pietrantonio played the game of soccer like title. 1970 saw Pat and the Azzurri travel to Mexico, BARRIE - KINGSTON - TORONTO - COBOURG - CAMBRIDGE he lives his life. Pat understood that rewards arise from participate in an international tourney and also witness the @liuna183 hard work and honesty, all of which fall under the canopy of World Cup. Pasquale’s big moment arrived in the final of www.liuna183.ca respect for teams and coaches. the “Targa del Corriere” when after regular time and overtime in the final game, Pasquale scored on five Born Oct 23rd, 1946, in Valenzano (Bari), Pat began his consecutive penalties to give his Toronto Azzurri the Cup. soccer experience as a youth player (ages 13 and 14) with the His perseverance led Nicola Sparano, sports editor of the local Valenzano Football Club. After a two-year interruption Corriere Canadese to quote Pasquale in a post-game when he was forced to move to Brescia with his family, comment. “Dio Perdona..Pasquale No!”...God forgives, but Pat returned home in 1962 and landed a roster spot Pasquale does not. with Trani, a team playing in . In 1964, Pat moved to Triggiano and that year he was called to play for Pat went on to enjoy many seasons in the National Soccer the provincial select team. Unfortunately, Pasquale was League with Toronto Italia and Hamilton Italo-Canadians. summoned for Military duty during the 65/66 season which He won the NSL Cup in 1972, NSL League Championship triggered Pat to call his best boyhood friends, Pino Ferri and the Canadian Club Title in 1974. During his career, and Gino Miolli to help him explore a move across the ocean. Pasquale played with/for/against Omar Sivori (Juve/Napoli), Jair Da Costa (Inter), Altafini and Bettega (Juve) Perani Pasquale arrived in Toronto Oct. 15th, 1966 just shy of his 20th (Bologna), Ancelotti (Parma), Gallina (Genoa/Vicenza) and birthday. After a year or so of orientation and acclimation to Toriani (Independiente). a new country, language, climate, and culture, Pat gravitated to his comfort zone and joined the Delia Soccer Club in 1968. Today, Pat is a founder and Board Member of the Toronto The following year Pasquale joined the Toronto Azzurri SC Azzurri SC and an original builder of the Toronto Azzurri under coach Fiorigi Pagliuso and anchored a dominant Youth Sports Village dream. midfield that led his team to a Premier League Championship

24 TORONTO AZZURRI WALL OF FAME 25 Seafood_Depot_Half_Page_Salmon.pdf 1 2017-03-13 4:32:55 PM

TINO BAXA MEDIA Considered the original voice and face of soccer, Tino delivered Italy’s Serie A Sunday Soccer “game of the week” on CHCH TV in the 60’s/70’s. Tino also wrote about soccer and its issues on behalf of the “English” press. Tino was the PR Director of the 1976 Toronto Metros-Croatia alongside Aldo Principe.

The consummate sports journalist, the complete professional Tino moved back to the Corriere Canadese in 1970 and and a passionate student of the game of soccer, this is just a then in 1972 he moved to CHCH-TV (channel 11-Hamilton) quick snapshot that describes one of our community’s most where he worked with Emilio Mascia in presenting the respected soccer journalists over the past 60 years. Sunday Serie A “Game of the week”. Tino became the voice of the Italian Soccer World for all of us in Toronto and Canada. Tino Baxa landed at the Canadian port of Halifax in 1951 and, His broadcasts went through the 1970’s and until 1985 when like so many other Italian immigrants, has his name imprinted the program transferred over to TeleLatino. on the hallowed halls of Pier 21! He brought with him a budding sports journalism savvy that he learned in Milan Tino had also written soccer columns in the Globe and as he apprenticed with the weekly Milan/Inter Sports Paper Mail when Jim Vipond was the Sports Editor covering the just a year before his Canadian adventure began. European Soccer scene. His most memorable journalist experience was when he was appointed Press Secretary for After some employment at the Oshawa GM plant, in 1954, the 1976 Toronto Metros-Croatia Soccer Club of the NASL. Tino jumped on the opportunity to become the Sports writer That year, of course, that team, led by the great Portuguese at the NEW Corriere Canadese when then publisher Dan superstar, Eusebio, went on to capture the NASL Soccer Iannuzzi and Editor Arturo Scotti decided the City of Toronto Bowl in Seattle. needed a weekly Italian publication. He worked at the Corriere until 1965. Tino also found time to debut his TV talents Over the past 20 years, Tino also lent his skills as a writer and when in 1960, he became the Sports Announcer on CFTO illustrator with the Italian publication “Lo Specchio” (Channel 9). The program was called “Album TV” and was thanks to Mr. Sergio Tagliavini and Giovanna Tozzi. produced by Faro Films thanks to the collaborative efforts of Ontario Saracini, Vito Barbera, and Agostino Venier. Oddly enough Tino negotiated a deal with an old colleague from his Milan-Inter weekly newspaper days, Luigi Scarambone, who was at time Secretary of the Lega Nazionale Calcio Italia, to acquire the rights to Serie A Soccer highlights. 26 TORONTO AZZURRI WALL OF FAME 27 Your home away from home

Experience PAOLO CANCIANI luxury at a very comfortable price. MEDIA

Your home away from home Synonymous with Soccer since the early ‘70s, Paolo understands the game at all levels, from strategy to execution. As a journalist, he is an ardent proponent of the sport, ensuring that its coverage is fair and balanced.

Stay Dine Meet In 1972, Paolo began his Canadian broadcast in Montreal (Digital Service)]. In 2000, Paolo also joined Toronto’s SEE WHY WE TRULY ARE YOUR HOME AWAY FROM HOME. CONNECT WITH US as a radio sportscaster for the multicultural station, multicultural station,CHIN Radio/Television International, Locations throughout Southern Ontario 1-800-363-6400 | montecarloinns.com CMFB 1410 Radio. He then moved to Toronto and became as a news anchor and writer. the host of a daily Italian program, which aired on Today he continues to work at CHIN where he produces City TV. Paolo continued to expand his horizons when MOC044 TorontoAzzurriAd_FNL.indd 1 2017-03-13 2:32 PM “Mandi Mandi,” a weekly magazine styled radio devoted he joined CFMT Television Network (now known as to the Friulan community of Canada and the famous OMNI) in 1979. “Soccer City Show” on Monday nights. Over the years, he hosted and directed sports programs Throughout his impressive career, Paolo has been involved at CFMT, and eventually moved into an executive with numerous charities and organizations such as Caritas producer position. However, Paolo answered a higher Telethon, Natale Della Bonta, Woodbridge Santa Claus calling in 1993 when he became Executive Vice Parade, and much more. He has published works such President and General Manager of Telelatino Television as Almanacco Degli Italo-Canadesi, N Uocchio N Lacrema, Network. Since then Paolo remained in the executive Protagonisti Italiani del Mondo, and various other English realm as he became editor and CEO of Les Publications and Italian works. Paolo also is a member of organizations Ensemble Inc. (a weekly Italian newspaper in Montreal) such as the National Advisory Board of the PIER 21 in 1999; Founder and Member of the Executive Committee Society, Caritas, the Italian Press Federation, and A.C.I.N.A. and Board of Directors of Italian Canadian Savings and Credit Union in 2000. In that same year, Paolo become President and CEO of Inner Peace Television Network [The first Canadian Religion (Catholic) Television

28 TORONTO AZZURRI WALL OF FAME 29 NICOLA SPARANO MEDIA Since 1972, Nicola has delivered the local soccer news to the Italo-Canadian Community. He is still the Director of Sports for the daily Corriere Canadese.

Born in Casolla (Caserta) 21-4-43. Arrived in Canada the Soccer is a game of passion, fierce and undiluted love. summer of 1967. Started working for Corriere Canadese in Soccer is a legacy that Italian fathers passed down to their October 1968 as a sports reporter and later promoted to sons and mothers to their daughters. Sports Editor, today he is Senior Editor. These days, soccer is the true love of many Italo-Canadian In the past five decades, he has seen most of you here, kids, both boys and girls. All over the Greater Toronto Area, present, play. Nicola was in Germany for the 1974 World Cup, fields are filled with so many children running after the ball, in Argentina 1978, Mexico 1982 and USA 1994. Sparano not just hoping to become professional, but solely for the watched Pele’s first American game, and many many, many fun of it! more games in Canada and abroad. Sadly, Canada has rarely produced players of top caliber. In 2009 he was the recipient of the first Antonio Maglio Award This result may be due to the fact that the Canadian for the excellence in promoting “la lingua italiana” in Canada. Soccer Association essentially is nonexistent, unable, or unwillingly, to create a system in which young talent could When Nicola Sparano started writing for Corriere Canadese, flourish. The Toronto Azzurri fulfills the void today, by soccer was considered “bush league” sport, vilified in print teaching new generations of players and honoring those and on TV. Today, mainstream media has learned the true who played a major role in developing the sport of soccer. meaning of “the beautiful game” and how to make money from it. Averton is proud to support Toronto Azzurri Soccer Club | 161 Pennsylvania Ave., Suite #5. Vaughan, Ontario L4K 1C3 | 416-740-5544 | www.averton.ca

30 TORONTO AZZURRI WALL OF FAME 31 TORONTO AZZURRI Congratulations to all of the new inductees to the Wall of Fame from everyone at Falco Steel Fabricators Inc.

The Toronto Azzurri Soccer Club in partnership with the City of Toronto has developed and is operating a community-based soccer/sports complex on the Keele/Steeles Reservoir lands to benefit youth through skills development, health, and fitness.

On April 29th the Azzurri LIUNA Community Clubhouse opened and currently the Toronto FALCO STEEL FABRICATORS INC. Azzurri S.C. is executing sport, educational and cultural programming for our youth with 323 DEERHURST DRIVE, BRAMPTON ON L6T 5K3 special focus on “At Risk” children. TEL. (905) 799-9000 - WWW.FALCOSTEEL.COM 32 TORONTO AZZURRI WALL OF FAME 33 From The Cristina Ciccolini Fund Building character, one soccer ball at a time

Congratulations to All Inductees

Can a soccer ball build self-esteem and character? We certainly think so. Best wishes from We are proud to support the Toronto Azzurri Soccer Club as it works to help at-risk Sam, Donna, Michael, Rita Eric youth lead happier and healthier lives. Cristina & Jacqueline Ciccolini www.icsavings.ca

34 TORONTO AZZURRI WALL OF FAME 35