By Randy Vogt, Director of Public Relations, Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association
August 23, 2025-The Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association (ENYYSA) is mourning the passing on August 20 of Claudio Bulian, who volunteered for over three decades as Treasurer of the Cosmopolitan Junior Soccer League (CJSL), the oldest league in American youth soccer. Claudio was 82 years old.
Claudio was one of only nine people to be honored as a CJSL Life Member, the equivalent of the Lifetime Achievement Award. His steady hand, integrity and unwavering commitment helped shape the CJSL’s legacy and ensured its strength for future generations. The Astoria resident was more than a board member as he was a pillar of the New York City soccer community.
Claudio’s passion for the game was evident through his lifelong connection to Istria SC, where he began as a player in 1970 and remained an active supporter of the club’s youth programs for decades. His contributions helped nurture the development of countless players, coaches and families.
“Claudio Bulian was with the CJSL for over three decades as a dedicated steward of the game,” CJSL President Paul Kontonis commented. “He was a quiet force behind the growth of youth soccer in our city. We are forever grateful for his service and friendship.”
With over 100,000 youth soccer players––both boys and girls––and more than 25,000 volunteers, the non-profit Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association (ENYYSA) stretches from Montauk Point, Long Island to the Canadian border. Members are affiliated with 10 leagues throughout the association, which covers the entire state of New York east of Route 81. ENYYSA exists to promote and enhance the game of soccer for children and teenagers between the ages of 5 and 19 years old, and to encourage the healthy development of youth players, coaches, referees and administrators. All levels of soccer are offered––from intramural, travel team and premier players as well as Children With Special Needs. No child who wants to play soccer is turned away. ENYYSA is a proud member of the United States Soccer Federation and US Youth Soccer. For more information, please log onto http://www.enysoccer.com/