On June 21, Vancouver Whitecaps FC president Bob Lenarduzzi was awarded the President’s Award at the 2012 BC Italian Business Excellence Awards presented by the Italian Chamber of Commerce. These awards act as an acknowledgement to contributions made by local Italian business leaders each year.
“I’m extremely proud of my Italian roots,” said Lenarduzzi. “It was very humbling to receive such a distinguished honour with so many fellow second generation Italian-Canadians.”
Lenarduzzi received the award for his work with Vancouver Whitecaps FC. Having originally played with Whitecaps FC during the team's first season in 1974, Lenarduzzi has been with the 'Caps ever since. The Canadian Soccer Hall of Famer has held a variety of positions within the club, ranging from player, coach, general manager, and now club president.
While he's proud to look back at his Italian heritage, the 'Caps legend feels that it is the club's work throughout many communities that makes the award so gratifying.
“I’m very pleased with how we as a club connect with our local communities,” said Lenarduzzi. “Our roster is made up of players from 15 different nationalities, and I believe that is an accurate portrayal of our multicultural city.”
