Forza Viola! Forza Fiorentina!

Sunday April 10th, 2011

I have to say, I’ve never been much of a futbol fan but after attending the #1 AC Milan – #10 Fiorentina game, I’ve been converted!

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After a few pre-game dinner, and drinks at the Lions Fountain with the whole gang and Katie and Kevin’s parents, we trekked over to the stadium and found the whole AIFS group sitting down in the Ferrovia section.  Maybe its just Italians and their pride and their sense of “campanalissmo” that makes the games so entertaining and exciting, or maybe its going down to the local stadium sporting Fiorentina apparel with my friends that makes me feel just that much more part of the culture here.  Either way, that experience was like none other that I have had here in Florence.  Sitting in a sea of purple watching in person what I only seldom (if ever) watch on television back in the states was exciting and transforming.  Being the naturally competitive person I am, sporting my purple and white-stripped polo complete with a Fleur de Li, I really got into the game.  Everyone had so much fun together, all rooting for the same team in unity. 


 

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It was interesting to see the crazy Italian Fiorentina fans cheering because for them futbol is a way of life.  It was cool to be in such an atmosphere like that similar to die-hard Raider fans or Giants fans back at home, who paint their faces and cheer on their team like its going out of style.  Unfortunately, AC Milan took Fiorentina 2-1 but it was nevertheless and eventful night and a great game with great entertainment and even better company!

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