The Brooklyn Italians are generally regarded as one of the most successful semi-pro teams in the United States, with a linear history that now stretches back over 60 years.

[2] They were also regular participants in the National Challenge Cup, winning the title twice during the pre-MLS all-amateur era, in 1979 (when they were still called the Dodgers) and 1991, and reaching the final in 1981 and 1990.

In April 1991, they beat Bermudian side Dandy Town Hornets 4–3 on aggregate; they withdrew before the second round of the tournament.

The Italians joined the National Premier Soccer League in 2010, with head coach Joe Barone calling it "a new adventure".

[3] In addition to the new NPSL side, the Italians continue to field a number of teams in the New York-based Cosmopolitan Soccer League.