I had a great time today! I was able to attend an American Football game here in Timisoara. The 89ers played Bucharest. I knew going in to the game, American Football isn't popular, yet, in most Eastern European countries. And today confirmed that fact. There was no food or promotional items for sale, no cheerleaders, no programs and no admission. The bleachers were small and run
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| The Bleachers |
down (but they were covered!) The field was 10 yards short. The game was a bit slow and the crowd was silent. The guy recording video doubled as the announcer. I only saw one coach on either side. There were no benches for the players. The field was covered in dandelions an they handed out pamphlets with explanation of the rules. Yes, it isn't a popular sport here, yet.
But I LOVED being there. Good or bad, I enjoy the game. These guys were playing a game that wasn't played in this city 6 years ago! They had 18 guys who were playing this year for the first time! Even the lone American playing hadn't played football in the U.S. But, everyone was doing their best! As the saying goes, "Rome was't built in a day." And, American football will take some time to catch on. But, they are playing it. And I hope to go and watch again.
I was able to talk with a few players at halftime and they were excited, also, to be playing. They told me this team was started in one of the parks with 5 guys from Timisoara. They have come a long way from then and I salute them for their efforts. Go 89ers!!!
Here are a few pictures from the game today!
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| For the Love of the Game! |
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| Halftime |
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| 89ers & Nittany Lions Fan!! |
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| Ella enjoying the game! |
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Cameraman and Announcer
I wouldn't want to stand there!?! |
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| The Lone American - From Allentown, PA |
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| The goal posts! |
2 comments:
Thanks for coming to the game. It is exciting to witness American football in its infancy here in Romania. The passion these men have for the sport and each other is amazing. This passion will drive this league to success! Jared
Jared, I am glad to know there are people who share my love of the game. Passion if huge and what I have seen from the guys, success will happen on the field in Timisoara and throughout this league! Thanks for your comment.
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