Thanks Rocco: The New York Cosmos are back for 2017
Nov 13, 2016; Queens, NY, USA; New York Cosmos defender Ayoze (17) celebrates after scoring a goal during penalty kicks in the NASL final at Belson Stadium. Cosmos won in shootouts 4-2. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Schneidler-USA TODAY Sports

It was just a short month ago that the New York Cosmos ceased operations. The champion of the NASL three of the last four seasons were in financial straights and in need of an investor who would be committed to the iconic franchise.

Step forward, Rocco B. Commisso, CEO and Chairman of Mediacom Communications Corporation. The man who brought cable to small communities owns the nation’s fifth-largest cable television provider is also a fan of the New York Cosmos from their heyday of the 70’s.

As of today, he responded to the desperate plea of that franchise by purchasing a majority stake in the New York Cosmos, while installing himself as its new chairman. The destiny of the current NASL Champions is in his hands, via newyorkcosmos.com.

“Like so many of our fantastic fans, I have followed the Cosmos since the fabulous days of Pele, Chinaglia, Alberto, and Beckenbauer,” Commisso declared, “I look forward to building on the rich history of America’s most iconic soccer club.”

He has not wasted any time as he has essentially allowed the Cosmos to pick up where they left off as the Cosmos will resume play in 2017 with Giovanni Savarese leading the club once more on the field.

“Cosmos fans deserve a world class experience,” Savarese said, “I am thrilled Rocco is giving me the opportunity to continue as head coach to pursue our fourth championship in five years.”

Commisso was born in Calabria, Italy, but since coming to the U.S. at age 12, he has been a city boy who has a soccer pedigree of his own. He played for the Columbia Lions from 1967 to 1970 serving as Co-Captain in 1970. He led the Lions to their first NCAA playoff appearance and was All-Ivy three times.

He continued to support his alma mater for over 40 years which gained him recognition through the naming of its sports complex Rocco B. Commisso Soccer Stadium in 2015 and as a member of the Columbia Athletes Hall of Fame in 2016. Seamus O’Brien, who will be replaced by Commisso, had only good things to say about Rocco.

“He is not only extremely knowledgeable about the beautiful game as it is played worldwide but brings extensive entrepreneurial experience in the media and communications business to the organization.”

For New York Cosmos fans and followers, this is the best of news as a man with the means is behind the wheel.

I am a veteran sports writer who has contributed to New York City Sporting News, Double G Sports, and Latino Sports. As the Voice of the Voiceless, I serve as the instrument that educates and informs.