What began as one man’s lifelong passion for sports cards has evolved into a thriving local business that’s capturing hearts and collections across the North Shore.

Meet Steve Abbondandolo, founder of Filthbomb Breaks, a Glen Cove-based sports cards and collectibles company that has grown from humble beginnings to national recognition.

A Glen Cove native, Abbondandolo grew up alongside his parents, Vito and Maria, brother Brian, and sister Stephanie. Today, he continues to call Glen Cove home, where he lives with his wife Genna—a local pediatrician—and their two young daughters. Together, they embody the small-town community spirit they both grew up with.

“I remember when I was a kid and we had ‘Legends and Heroes’ here in Glen Cove,” Abbondandolo recalled. “It was a highlight of my childhood and fueled my collecting passion. It was the place to hang out! I want to give that same experience to kids now.”

 

Abbondandolo launched Filthbomb Breaks in 2012 after years of collecting sports cards and memorabilia. What started as a personal hobby evolved into a full-fledged business when he opened a storefront in 2020 at 116 Glen Street.

The company gained national momentum through its live sports card “breaks” streamed on Fanatics Live, a platform where fans purchase and open packs in real time. Today, Filthbomb employs dozens of people who manage daily operations both in-store and online.

But for Abbondandolo, it’s about more than business. “The store exists so we can contribute to the community and ignite a passion for collecting,” he said. “Whether it’s a kid buying their first pack or a veteran collector looking for grading advice, Filthbomb is their place.”

Joining Abbondandolo in the venture is his brother-in-law and business partner, John

Yohe, who serves as Chief Operating Officer. In 2024, the family team expanded when

Steve’s brother Brian Abbondandolo came on board as Chief Financial Officer.

A Certified Public Accountant, Brian brought years of financial expertise from his work

alongside their father at Abbondandolo Wealth Management. His addition positioned

Filthbomb Breaks for strategic growth as the company prepares to move into a new

retail space four times larger than its current location.

Q&A with Founder Steve Abbondandolo

Q: What advice can you give a new collector?

A: “Do your research before buying cards—and stop into Filthbomb Breaks to ask for

advice. That’s what we’re here for.”

Q: What sets Filthbomb apart from other sports collectible stores?

A: “With the trading market at an all-time high, we pride ourselves on integrity and

keeping prices fair for collectors.”

Q: What’s your favorite part of owning a successful business in your hometown?

A: “Giving back. We sponsor the local Little League, donate to charities, and recently

helped fund a new field at Glen Cove City Stadium.”

Q: What’s next for Filthbomb Breaks?

A: “The launch of our new, much larger retail space—it’s going to be a dream come

true.”

For Abbondandolo, Filthbomb Breaks is more than a business—it’s a way to connect

generations through a shared love of collecting. “We’re creating something lasting,” he

said. “A place where passion, family, and community come together.”