The Beginning

Team Villa came to be in late 2008 when two very proud Italo-Canadians, Pino Correale and Frank Ciccolini Jr. – both seasoned marathoners, walked into Villa Foundation’s office offering to do something different to help raise funds for Villa Charities. Their passion and enthusiasm spread to 12 others who came together as a group interested in running and honouring their heritage. And in March 2009, this group became the first Team Villa team.

Today, Team Villa has become an annual fundraising destination sporting event that participates in a different marathon across Italy each year. The team has returning and new members who have committed to embarking on a demanding, challenging and rewarding journey.

This year, Team Villa will again have two goals: to raise much needed support for Villa Foundation by personally committing to raise a minimum of $5,500 each and to participate in the 25th anniversary of the Venice Marathon on October 24, 2010.

For those who have never participated in a marathon, taking up this challenge is no easy task. Training during a cold, icy, and windy winter is a challenge, but last years team members demonstrated what can be accomplished when you really put your heart and soul into something. Many who were first time fundraisers were amazed at the generosity of others and many even exceeded their minimum fundraising goal!

Team Villa is a unique experience because it encompasses so many different components: a personal journey to conquer your own limitations, the experience of joining a group of people, many strangers at first but friends forever, who inspire and motivate each other, the ability to do so much good by raising funds for people who rely on the generosity of others to lead a life of quality and dignity and finally, to celebrate ones culture and heritage with pride!

Visit our blog regularly to receive updates on training from our coach Michael Brennan, learn more about the team members and celebrate everything Team Villa!