Ciao! Sports

Our story

Rooted in heritage.

Ciao! Sports began with a love of sport, a connection to family and heritage, and a belief that teams can bring people together.

Today, we turn that belief into action through sports investment, development and operations. We bring capital, partnerships and hands-on leadership to facilities, athletic programs and community projects.

Founded by Patrick Chovan, Ciao! Sports connects the perspective gained in professional sports with a growing commitment to local opportunity — especially for girls and young athletes.

Our philosophy

Sport is a vehicle for social good, economic regeneration and cross-cultural exchange. Our teams build trust in underserved cities and create pathways — especially for young women — in sport.

A letter from the founder

My great-grandfather, Francesco Raggazzino, came to America as an orphan from Italy with nothing but grit and hope in his heart. His journey — marked by resilience and quiet determination — laid the foundation for my family's story.

Generations later, I've been given the rare chance to return to his homeland not just as a visitor, but as a builder and believer in the future of Italian sport. Through Ciao! Sports, I'm investing in clubs that stand for community, pride, and opportunity.

This isn't just business. It's the rediscovery of heritage.

And the belief that sometimes, when you go far enough forward, you find yourself right back where you began.

Patrick Chovan — Founder / President

Get in touch.

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