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New York Cosmos' Own Salvatore Barone Talks Brooklyn

The Italian-American midfielder gives us the insider scoop on what it was like to grow up in Brooklyn as an up-and-coming soccer player
Published Jul 16, 2017

If you’re a New Yorker, then you know how much everyone loves to represent their neighborhoods and boroughs. This is a city full of pride, and of course Brooklyn is no different.

New York Cosmos and Brooklyn’s own Salvatore Barone talks about this upbringing, and his ties to Coney Island and the community since the very beginning.

“I think the Brooklyn kids have a lot of personality, you know?” says Barone. “Growing up in Brooklyn, playing soccer in the parks - I think that’s how people get to know you, and that’s how you start to get your name out there.”

Sal was born and raised in Brooklyn, so perhaps no one is better equipped to fill us and his teammates in on what this globally known borough has to offer. He enjoys a good slice, and to spend time with his family and friends close to home.

“I always used to play soccer and hang out with my friends at Dyker Park, we would always grab a few slices of pizza - delicious and affordable!” admits the talented midfielder.

“One place in particular that I think everyone should check out is L&B Spumoni Gardens pizzeria in Brooklyn. It’s a must, I recommend it. There’s another place near our stadium called Kitchen 21. We were lucky enough to have a meal there with the team; it was really good!”

Growing up, Sal admitted that he and his family used to go to the beach in Coney Island, and to this day, he likes to walk along the boardwalk near the Cosmos home stadium, MCU Park.

“Coney Island is such a unique place. It’s fun to go down there in the summer, usually on Fridays. My family and I would go down there and watch the fireworks at night. That was always fun.”

The former Brooklyn Italians playmaker is enjoying life with the team for the 2017 season. Having the ability to stay in his home borough allows him to stay close to the people he loves, and he is hopeful about the long-term solution for the team.

“I would love to stay in Brooklyn, I wouldn’t want to go anywhere else!” mentioned Sal. “I am always with my friends and family here. We usually hang out in my backyard, people come visit, chat, play cards and stay up late.” Sal feels a special connection with the borough he’s called home his whole life.

Sal made his NASL debut last week, coming off the bench against Indy Eleven on July 8th. Look for him to join in on the action as the Cosmos will travel to Regina, Saskatchewan to play an exhibition match against La Liga giants, Valencia CF, on July 22.

The Cosmos will return to MCU Park on Saturday, July 29 at 7:00 pm to take on Miami FC in the opening game of the 2017 NASL Fall Season. Tickets are on sale now. For more information, click here.