Youth soccer coordinator
When he was seven years old, Antonio “Tony” Tirino’s father, Pasquale,
returned home after serving Italy in World War II. Pasquale Tirino
brought
home two soccer balls, a simple act that ultimately would have a
major impact on the lives of thousands of Albany children.
The Tirinos moved to America in 1956 and settled in Albany. After many
years
of success at the club level, Tony Tirino became a founding member
of the Albany Junior Soccer Program in 1972. The program began with 36
children
and grew over the decades to involve hundreds of children and
families each
year through the tireless commitment and love of Mr. Tirino and other volunteers.
Mayor Gerald D. Jennings recognized Mr. Tirino’s dedication by
proclaiming
Feb. 23, 1997, as “Tony Tirino Day” in the city, and in
April 1999 the mayor
also dedicated soccer fields in Mr. Tirino’s honor.
Today, the city’s recreational soccer program, as well as an independent
club soccer program, continue on under the guidance of Mr. Tirino’s
simple motto: “For the kids.”
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