Polonia Sport Club developed in the 1950's. The club presently is a
leader in Milwaukee's soccer and Polish communities. Numerous indoor
and outdoor championships have highlighted Polonia's accomplishments
on the Majors level during the 60's, 70's and 80's. Once a pioneer in
the development of youth soccer, Polonia's pride now rests in its growing
youth program. As the cofounders grow older, it is their wish that the
torch be passed on to these younger generations.
In 1965, thanks to various donations and contributions, Polonia acquired
property on south 12th Street in Milwaukee and transformed the building
into a permanent club facility. Having a home base boosted the morale
and confidence of the team. The Polonia Major Team achieved the ultimate
goal of winning the State Championship in 1968 and repeating it the
following year. In 1969, the Polonia Majors not only won the State Championship
but also the Referees' Cup, the Challenge Cup, the Uihlein Cup and all
of the minor tournaments. The club was becoming increasingly competitive
as the quality of soccer was rising in Wisconsin. Polonia is well represented
in the Wisconsin Hall of Fame by Stan Kaczmarek, Andy Krupa, George
Foszpanczyk, Carlos Alvarez, Stan Szmidt, Stan Stadler, Sr., Jerry Panck,
John Bocwinski, John Joachimczyk and Henry Wawrzyniak. This is the highest
award presented in Wisconsin soccer.
Under the leadership of club president Henry Matccki, in 1978, Polonia
Sport Club took the unbelievable challenge of purchasing 23 acres of
land in Franklin, to promote the development of soccer and ethnic activities.
Over the years, Polonia's picnics, festivals and religious celebrations
have been a source of pride for the Polish community. For his efforts,
Mr. Matecki was honored at the Pulaski Council of Wisconsin Polish-American
of the year. The soccer organization also holds its annual soccer tournament
in May of each year.
Aerial View of Polonia Sport Club Property
