As early as 1953, a group of Croatians in Cleveland wanted to organize a Croatian soccer club and started to schedule “friendly soccer games.” In February of 1957, the first “Croatia” in North America was initially founded and Joe Hiltner was elected as the first president. From the time of Mr. Hiltner, to our current board members, many Croatians worked diligently to build a successful organization. That same year “Croatia” won the Ohio Cup beating the German Club “Liederkranz” from Mansfield. The original membership cards have these principles and codes of conduct printed on them: “To promote and spread the Croatian name and culture through sport, at the same time being thankful to our new country America. Always participate honorably carrying the Croatian flag, firmly adhering to the sports rules and regulations, respect and honor our opponents on the soccer field without regard to their name and nationality, cooperate with all Croatian organizations in the strengthening of the Croatian cause.”

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