Our community is once again proud to extend its congratulations to COPOMIAO Vice President John Viola and his parents, Vincent and Teresa, on their second consecutive Stanley Cup victory. Their Florida Panthers won the NHL title again on Tuesday evening with a 5-1 victory over the Edmonton Oilers in game six of the championship series. 

It’s especially exciting for all of us to see the Viola family achieve such success in the sports world because of the generosity and leadership they have provided to the Italian American community. John is one of the most influential Italian American leaders in our country.

Apart from his role as the National VP of COPOMIAO, he is also the NYC District National VP of the Italian Sons and Daughters of America, Founder and Host of The Italian American Podcast, and Co-Founder and President of the Italian American Future Leaders program. In addition, he opened his new podcast space, Red Sauce Studio — and the Italian American Emporium — in the heart of NYC’s Little Italy, adjacent to the Italian American Museum, on Mulberry and Grand streets.

I’ve had the pleasure of working with John in his various leadership roles, and that has allowed me to observe firsthand the passion and pride he has in our heritage, and to admire everything he does to preserve and promote it.

John’s parents, Vincent and Teresa, have played a crucial role in the huge success of the Italian American Future Leaders program. They have generously donated the use of Amerant Bank Arena (home of the Florida Panthers) to host the annual IAFL National Convention, while also providing exceptional cuisine and unforgettable entertainment for the attendees who participate in the program.

As I have said before, the Viola family stands as a pillar of excellence in the Italian American community. They set an outstanding example for all of us to follow, while instilling in us a strong sense of pride. From the perspective of the Italian American community, there could not be a more deserving family to be honored with the Stanley Cup trophy.

Last year I said I hoped their initial Stanley Cup win was just the first of many more to come.

Well, now I can say we’re looking forward to a three-peat next year!