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Fiorentina general manager Joe Barone, who was the New York Cosmos senior vice president, chairman of the National Premier Soccer League and a prominent member of the Brooklyn Italians Soccer Club, has passed away.

He was 57.

Barone was influential in New York and American soccer. He was the New York Cosmos senior vice president, chairman of the National Premier Soccer League and a prominent member of the Brooklyn Italians Soccer Club.

The Italian Serie A club announced Barone’s death on March 19, a day prior to his 58th birthday.

“It is with deep sorrow and immense sadness that Fiorentina confirms the loss of one of its figureheads, a person who has marked the recent history of the club and who will never be forgotten,” a statement said. “General Director Giuseppe Barone passed away today at the San Raffaele Hospital in Milan after suddenly falling ill on Sunday.

“Rocco Commisso and his family, Daniele Pradè, Nicolas Burdisso, Alessandro Ferrari, Vincenzo Italiano, Cristiano Biraghi and everyone associated with Fiorentina are utterly devastated by the terrible loss of a man who showed great professionalism and gave his heart and soul for these colors. He was a treasured friend who always stayed strong in the happiest and, above all, the most difficult moments.

The entire Viola world sends its heartfelt condolences to Giuseppe’s wife Camilla, his children and the entire Barone family during this time of immense sorrow.”

On Sunday, Barone suffered a heart attack during a technical meeting at a hotel, prior to his team’s Serie A game with Atalanta. He was rushed to a hospital and was reported in serious and then criticial condition. He eventually was placed on life support.

“Joe was dedicated to the Brooklyn Italians Soccer Club doing everything from playing, coaching and administration. He was the driving force to their Columbus Day Tournament year after year,” Eastern New York Hall of Famer Jim Vogt stated. “He was an advocate for soccer in New York City, holding many positions while also working in the banking industry and being a husband and father of four. When you look at Joe’s numerous accomplishments, you would think that he was more than one person but that’s what made Joe so good as he could multitask with the best. When do you see a kid from Brooklyn rise to become GM of a storied Serie A team.”

The Brooklyn Italians gave tribute to Barone on Instagram as well, “The Brooklyn Italians remembers its architect, heartbeat, friend, brother, father, husband, grandfather and family. Our thoughts and support extend wholeheartedly to the Barone family. We stand united in offering our deepest condolences and unwavering solidarity as they navigate this difficult journey of grief and loss. Our hearts and prayers remain steadfastly with them, serving as a beacon of comfort and support throughout this challenging time.”

FIFA president Gianni Infantino paid tribute to Barone and his passion for Fiorentina.

“I will carry with me those wonderful smiles you gave me,” Infantino said in an Instagram post. “You were proud of Viola Park, a beautiful sports center. You were always moved when you spoke of Fiorentina. You improved the world of football, who loses you too soon. Tomorrow you would have celebrated your 58th birthday. Have a safe journey dear Joe, and a big hug to all the people who loved you.”

Serie A president Lorenzo Casini said: “Italian football loses an outstanding managerial figure. Joe in his years at the helm of Fiorentina was able to express passion, competence and vision that allowed the club and the team to achieve important results both on the field and in management, with the inauguration of the extraordinary Viola Park facility. Joe was a hard worker, who brought the American entrepreneurial spirit and the ability to think big to Serie A and Italian football. He was generous and always ready to fight for the sake of the system. He will be sorely missed.”

The Cosmos also issued a statement: “It is with deep sorrow and sadness that the New York Cosmos confirm the loss of one of its greatest champions, a person who made a major impact on the recent history of the club and who will never be forgotten. Giuseppe Barone passed away today at the San Raffaele Hospital in Milan after suddenly falling ill on Sunday.

“Rocco Commisso and his family, and all of Cosmos Country are utterly devastated by the terrible loss of a man who was a central figure in the reboot of the Cosmos and a tireless advocate for independent soccer in the United States. Joe was a treasured friend who always stayed strong in the happiest and, above all, the most difficult moments.

“The entire Cosmos family sends its heartfelt condolences to Joe’s wife Camilla, his children, and the entire Barone family during this time of immense sorrow.”

On Instagram, the Eastern New York State Soccer Association expressed its sympathies:

“The entire ENYSSA Family and Friends send its heartfelt condolences to the entire Barone Family during these times of sorrow.

“Joe was a player, coach, administrator, and most of all friend to everyone in ENYSSA; before he took the big leap to pursue a lifelong dream as a GM with @acffiorentina in Italy.

“Joe will be missed in the locker rooms, board rooms and especially the soccer fields in Brooklyn and across New York.”

Added U.S. Amateur Soccer Association president John Motta on X, formerly known as Twitter: “A very sad day for the soccer community!”

Born in Italy, Barone emigrated to the United States with his family when he was eight years old. He played for a local Brooklyn team called Pozzallo, which trained on a dirt field in Red Hook, Brooklyn. He played in local leagues in the Eastern New York State Soccer Association before performing at St. Francis College in the borough. Barone never played pro ball, but brought his passion and business acumen to the beautiful game.

He was a life member of the Brooklyn Italians, the storied New York City soccer club that captured the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup in 1991.

Barone is survived by his wife, three sons – Peter, Salvatore and Giuseppe, and daughter, Gabriella.

Visiting on Monday, March 25 from 2-9 pm at Sacred Hearts-St. Stephen Church, 125 Summit Street, Brooklyn, NY 11231.

Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday, March 26 at 10 am at Sacred Hearts-St. Stephen Church.

Entombment to follow at Green Wood Cemetery, 500 25^th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11232.

For more information, please call Scotto Funeral Home at 718-875-2515.

By Randy Vogt, Director of Public Relations, Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association

March 26, 2024-Every summer, the Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association (ENYYSA) awards college scholarships for deserving high school graduates. Four scholarships are for girls (named after Jack Baumann plus Patricia Louise Masotto and Brenda Driscoll) and there are two scholarships for boys (honoring Livio D’Arpino).

Criteria for Consideration

• Must have a C average or better and graduate by August of the current year
• Must plan on attending a school of Higher Education in the Fall. (Include name of University/College)
• Must be a registered player of the Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association
• Must submit a 250-word essay on why you are deserving of the scholarship. The essay must include at the top of page 1, Your Name, Address, Phone Number, and the Scholarship applying to, indicated below.
• Must submit a personal resume and a school transcript.
• The essay, resume, and transcript must be submitted no later than June 1 to the Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association, email to lfrancis@enysoccer.com or mail to:
  ENYYSA Attn: Scholarship Committee
  167 Nassau Blvd.
  Garden City South, NY 11530
• Indicate at the top of the essay which scholarship you are applying to.

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 on to http://www.enysoccer.com/

By Randy Vogt, Director of Public Relations, Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association 

February 12, 2024-The Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association (ENYYSA) was very pleased to honor Atahan Yetimoglu as our 2023 Young Male Referee of the Year at our Hall of Fame Banquet on January 27 at Marina del Rey in the Bronx.

Atahan took up the whistle with the Long Island Soccer Referees Association (LISRA) in 2020 and recruited his two sisters, Armina and Tuana, to join him. He made outstanding progress and two years ago, he was awarded the LISRA Rising Star Award as well as a LISRA Scholarship. Atahan was valedictorian at Lindenhurst High School in 2022 and currently is majoring in Pre-Med at Stony Brook University. Attending college locally allows him to continue to ref Eastern New York soccer games throughout the year.

At Lindenhurst High School, he played soccer, ran track and swam, being honored as an All-County Swimmer as both a junior and senior. Musically, he plays the tenor saxophone, piano, clarinet and oboe. He somehow also finds the time to volunteer for the Lindenhurst Rotary Club.

Atahan is enthusiastic for all his assigned games, he has officiated from the Under-7 to Under-23 age groups and he has progressed to being assigned the Long Island Cup finals as well as College Showcase tournaments.

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 United States Youth Soccer. For more information, please log on to http://www.enysoccer.com/

By Randy Vogt, Director of Public Relations, Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association 

February 9, 2024-The Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association (ENYYSA) is very pleased announce that Julia Weston has been honored as our 2023 TOPSoccer Buddy of the Year. TOPSoccer stands for The Outreach Program for Soccer, providing an opportunity for children with intellectual, physical and/or social characteristics that may require modified educational practices and services in order to develop to their potential. The award took place at the Eastern New York Hall of Fame Banquet held on January 27 at Marina del Rey in the Bronx.

Julia’s journey with the Auburndale Soccer Club’s TOPSoccer Program began in third grade and she has continued to selflessly devote her time and energy to helping others ever since. As a junior in high school now, Julia’s commitment remains unwavering. She consistently goes above and beyond by arriving an hour early to each session, ensuring that the space is meticulously set up and ready to welcome the Special Needs participants. Her attention to detail and proactive approach create an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone involved.

What truly sets Julia apart is her remarkable ability to connect with the children. Her kind and gentle nature, coupled with her engaging personality, make her an ideal buddy for these kids. One particular participant formed an extraordinary bond with Julia, to the extent that they would independently reach out to her through calls and FaceTime, with the parent’s permission. Julia’s unwavering support and mentorship, both on and off the field, have transformed her into a trusted friend and confidant for this participant.

Another remarkable example of Julia’s impact lies in her work with a participant who faced hearing difficulties in one ear. Initially timid and hesitant to leave her mother’s side, this child gradually developed trust in Julie’s compassionate approach. Through her patient guidance and encouragement, Julia empowered the player to actively participate in every session. This trust and bond that Julia built with her lasted for an impressive four years, underscoring the profound and lasting impact she has on the lives of those she supports.

Julia’s exceptional leadership qualities shine through in every aspect of her volunteer work. She serves as a role model for other volunteers, inspiring them to emulate her dedication and compassion. Moreover, Julia actively encourages her classmates to get involved and support our cause. Her ability to rally others and foster a sense of community is truly commendable.

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 United States Youth Soccer. For more information, please log on to http://www.enysoccer.com/

By Randy Vogt, Director of Public Relations, Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association 

February 8, 2024-The Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association (ENYYSA) is very pleased announce that Timothy Schwabenbauer has been honored as our 2023 TOPSoccer Coach of the Year. He was also honored as the Regional TOPSoccer Coach of the Year. The festivities took place at the Eastern New York Hall of Fame Banquet held on January 27 at Marina del Rey in the Bronx.

TOPSoccer stands for The Outreach Program for Soccer, providing an opportunity for children with intellectual, physical and/or social characteristics that may require modified educational practices and services in order to develop to their potential. 

Timothy has been an integral part of the Auburndale Soccer Club’s TOPSoccer program for the past 14 years. Starting as a player, he expressed a desire to stay involved and contribute more to the program. Since then, he has consistently gone above and beyond in his role as a coach.
His dedication is evident from the moment he arrives at each practice session. He comes early to help set up the field and ensure everything is ready for the players. Additionally, he takes an active role in running the program each week, providing guidance and support to the players.

One of Timothy’s notable qualities is his ability to connect with the parents. He takes the time to speak with them individually, sharing his personal experiences with TOPSoccer. This not only helps build trust and rapport but also showcases his genuine passion for the sport and the impact it can have on the players’ lives.

Furthermore, Timothy takes on the responsibility of communicating with other park-goers to secure the field for the sessions. He handles this task with professionalism and ensures that the program has the necessary space to operate.

At the end of each season, Timothy delivers a heartfelt speech to the entire group, expressing his gratitude and appreciation for their commitment and hard work. He is a true testament to the values and impact of TOPSoccer.

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 United States Youth Soccer. For more information, please log on to http://www.enysoccer.com/

By Randy Vogt, Director of Public Relations, Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association 

February 1, 2024-The Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association (ENYYSA) is very pleased announce that Michael Cannizzaro has been honored as our 2023 Boys Competitive Coach of the Year. The festivities took place at the Eastern New York Hall of Fame Banquet held on January 27 at Marina del Rey in the Bronx.Michael is the head coach of the Silver Lake Soccer Academy 2008 Premier Boys and has coached Silver Lake teams for nearly a decade. He grew up playing for Silver Lake teams in the Cosmopolitan Junior Soccer League (CJSL), has served as a member of the club’s Board of Directors and was recently voted as Director of the Boys Program.

It’s easy to understand why that vote was unanimous as Michael serves as an amazing role model for his players. Silver Lake President Ken Granowski wrote in his nomination letter, “Michael has created a positive atmosphere for his team. He teaches his players the right way to play the game. Win or lose, he has taught his team to do it with respect. Michael’s demeanor on the sidelines is always positive and his passion to teach his players is matched by none.”

In addition to all this coaching, Michael also serves as a great role model to the students he teaches in his “real job” as a New York City elementary school teacher.

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 United States Youth Soccer. For more information, please log on to http://www.enysoccer.com/

By Randy Vogt, Director of Public Relations, Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association 

February 2, 2024-The Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association (ENYYSA) was very pleased to honor Ana Penagos-Bolivar as our 2023 Girls Competitive Coach of the Year at our Hall of Fame Banquet on January 27 at Marina del Rey in the Bronx.

Ana was nominated by Dana Richardson, the administrator for the Merrick Pumas, one of the three teams that Ana coaches. In the three years that Ana has coached the Pumas, they have been promoted three times in the Long Island Junior Soccer League (LIJSL), going from Division 2 to the Premier Division, won the Long Island Cup and received the LIJSL Sportsmanship Award for their Fair Play. The Pumas also finished in first place in Oceanside United’s Bob Schrager Memorial Tournament.

Dana wrote, “Ana never yells or corrects her players during play. She will always pull players aside when they come off the field to offer advice, make a correction or adjustment…Ana continues to find creative ways to keep things fresh and new and the girls continue to improve their skill set. She has the ability to bring out the best in each player and recognizes that they all need to be coached differently. She is always creating fun ways at practice and beyond for the girls to stay engaged…Ana also encourages the girls to try out and play for different teams over the summer. Two Pumas played for the LIJSL Academy and two played for the Long Island Rough Riders last summer.”

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 United States Youth Soccer. For more information, please log on to http://www.enysoccer.com/