Years with the Lancers: 1967-1980 (Owner, President)
Born: Rochester, NY, USA
A man of great principle who believed that Rochester would become the “Green Bay” of soccer in the United States and dedicated his life to make that belief a reality. Became interested in soccer when he joined the Italian-American Sport Club in the early 1960’s. Became an owner of the Lancers in 1967 after he and fellow Wall of Famer Charlie Schiano were engaged by another Wall of Famer, Tony Pullano, and his committee to head up the ownership group for a potential franchise in the American Soccer League. Started as Treasurer of the Lancers in 1967 and was soon named President of the Team, a role which he held for the remaining 14 years of the franchise’s existence. Ran the day-to-day operations and business side of the Lancers office and Aquinas/Holleder Stadium.
Negotiated alongside Charlie Schiano to move the Lancers from the ASL to the North American Soccer League in 1970, a decision that allowed the NASL to remain in existence and shaped the future of American soccer as we know it today. Well respected by the NASL Board of Directors and his fellow owners. Served on the Executive Committee, the Indoor Soccer Committee, the Long-Term Planning Committee and the Labor Relations Committee of the NASL, where he helped to form league policies, rules and regulations and player contracts through the NASL Players’ Union. His reputation for being fair and practical led to an appointment as an arbitrator appointed by FIFA (the world governing body of soccer) to resolve disputes over ownership rights of foreign players.
Attended John Marshall High School, where he was an accomplished hurdler in track and field. Attended the University of Rochester, Rochester Business Institute, St. Bonaventure University and earned his Law Degree from the University of Buffalo. Practiced law in Rochester for over 50 years. Served as Chairman of the Board of the Northwest Hearing and Speech Center for many years. Passed away on April 13th, 2006. He cherished his days as a Lancers’ owner and considered everyone associated with the Club as his Lancer family. He will be most remembered for having the courage to dream and the fortitude to follow his dreams.