Brooklyn Italian Social Club, Brooklyn

Since their founding in 1949, the semi-pro Brooklyn Italians have exemplified the gritty, all-heart playing style of American soccer, twice gutting out memorable wins in the US Open Cup in 1979 and 1991. Today, the team plays its games in the National Premier Soccer League and nurtures the next generation of players in the Brooklyn Italians Youth Soccer Club. Through the club's schools, camps, and leagues, kids as young as 4 receive the mentorship, attention, and playing time required to become a skilled player. They also get the chance to study some of the world's finest techniques: the club often sponsors camps and exchanges with noted international teams, including English side West Ham United.