|
 Player
and administrator in Northern California for a half-century
after emigrating to the United States. Began playing as a youth in Italy
in 1919.
|
Personal Information |
|
Class of 1971 |
|
Born:
January 16, 1909
-
Vercelli, Italy |
|
Died: January 20, 1982
-
San Francisco, CA |
|
Emigrated to the United States in 1922, and a year later began a
long tenure with the San Francisco Athletic Club. Advanced to the first division in 1925;
the team won league championships in 1926 and 1928. In 1933,
Ardizzone left the Club to help organize the Verdi Club Soccer
Team, and as Captain, led it to the finals of the California
State Cup. The team was promoted to Division 1 in 1934, winning the
first division championship, with John setting a scoring record
with 49 goals in 20 games. This
record remained intact at the time of his induction in 1971. Played for San Francisco all-star teams
against visiting English club in 1937 and against Canada at the
opening of the San Francisco World Fair in 1939. Transferred to Teutonia in 1937, winning
the title in 1940. Repeated
this honor with Unione Espanola in 1941. Ardizzone retired as player in 1947,
concluding his career with an appearance at the California State
Cup final. Also managed and coached Lincoln
School’s team and the Greek-American club. After retirement as a player, served as secretary of the San
Francisco Soccer Football League from 1947 to 54. Served the California Soccer Football
Association as President from 1954-56, board member from 1957-60
and Vice President from 1960-66. He
resumed duties as Secretary of the San Francisco league from
1966 to his death in 1982. He was
instrumental in inaugurating competition of the San Francisco
based teams in the U. S. National Open Cup. Also
an active referee in his later years.
|
