Club History

The Southwest Italian American Club was founded 25 years ago in March of 1985.

At that time, a group of Italian-American guys who lived in the Seven Hills area were playing golf and hanging out at the old Sammy G’s, when they came up with a major brainstorm of an idea—“Why don’t we pool our resources and talents and form a Club?” (That was probably not exactly what they said, so I used editorial and artistic license to paraphrase.)

The mission or purpose that they decided upon is stated very simply in the Club By-Laws: 1-To foster and promote brotherhood and good will among the Italian-American community; 2- For the pleasure, recreation and fellowship of its members.

The initial intent was to be a charitable organization, but the IRS had other ideas. The guys decided that even as social club, they could collectively make a difference--and have fun doing it!

Anthony Sartini was elected first president and Nello Trinetti was Treasurer for the 1st 15 years. Lou Gillombardo, Perry Troiano, Herman Luvison, Bruno Moreal, John Verdone and Ralph Cosiano all played important roles during the first few years of Reverse Raffles, Golf Outings and the infamous Pizza & Sausage Dances. Time marches on and the club has five charter members remaining to convey the original club spirit of the early days.

Congratulations to the Club and the long time members for the past 25+ years of brotherhood and activities. The new generation, as well as the current club leadership team, remain committed to community involvement, club growth and the pledge to lead the Club successfully onward for the next 25 years and beyond.