Today we’d like to introduce you to C.J. Ilardo.
Hi C.J., thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
6 years ago, Nino Germano, Club Founder and owner/chef of La Scala Ristorante recognized that there were many Juventus supporters throughout the Baltimore area, but there wasn’t a central place for them to gather, watch matches, and connect with one another. What started as a simple idea to organize a few watch parties at La Scala gradually grew into the Juventus Official Fan Club Baltimore (JOFC Baltimore). We worked closely with Juventus Official Fan Clubs of North America to become an officially recognized fan club, and since then we’ve built an incredible community of supporters from all backgrounds who share a love for the club, the sport, and Italian culture.
Today, JOFC Baltimore hosts regular match watch parties, social events, charitable initiatives, and community gatherings throughout the year. What I’m most proud of isn’t just the growth of the club, but the friendships and connections that have been formed because of it. We’ve created a place where people can feel welcome, whether they’ve supported Juventus for decades or are attending their very first event. The club has grown organically and we’re excited about its future.
Looking back, our journey has really been about combining professional skills with personal passions. Whether it’s in real estate, Nino’s restaurant or through JOFC Baltimore, I’ve always enjoyed bringing people together and helping create communities that have a lasting impact. Seeing something that began as a small idea evolve into a thriving supporters’ group has been incredibly rewarding, and I’m excited to continue growing it in the years ahead.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
As a small club, without any major sponsors, we’ve had to grow it organically. We charge a nominal membership fee, which helps offset our club fees to Juventus, but we also raise money through various events, including a Bull Roast and annual Soccer Bocce Tournament, which is a fun Calcio-twist on the original Italian game.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
We’ve grown from a few guys getting together at La Scala to over 45 people, of all ages, men and women, children and adults to cheer on our beloved Juventus. As an official Fan Club of Juventus, we are able to interact with the Juventus team through meet and greets, exclusive events at the Allianz Stadium in Turin, Italy, and with a much larger group of North American Fans.
Last summer the Club World Cup was held in the United States and we had members travel to DC, Philadelphia and Orlando to watch games together and with other Juventus Official Fan Club members. We also had an exclusive cocktail party with all of the players on the team and had the chance to interact with them.
What started as a club has turned into one big happy family filled with Italians and folks from all over the world.
I’m proudest that we have grown from 4 to 45 members in 5 years. I’m also proud that we support a Juventus Youth team. Club aspirations include starting our own Juventus Youth Academy in Baltimore, modeled by the coaching strategies of the Juventus Club in Turin.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Put yourself out there. Don’t be afraid to talk to anyone and always be kind. If you have good manners and are willing to talk to anyone, doors will open.
Pricing:
- $50 per year
Contact Info:
- Website: https://juventusbaltimore.club/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juventusbaltimore/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Juventus-Baltimore/100063576697118/
- Twitter: https://x.com/JUVENTUSBMORE
