Four years ago, one of the trendiest fashion items among U.S. soccer fans was the jersey of a team in Italy’s third division. Under the direction of American CEO Ted Philipakos and American owners led by Joe Tacopina, Venezia FC rocketed to chic hipster status in a matter of months.

The club also succeeded on the field, gaining promotion from the fourth tier to Serie B and hiring Italian legend Filippo Inzaghi as manager. At one point, you could buy a Venezia jersey in soccer gear shops in Manhattan, such was the team’s renown.