Welcome to the first edition of a new series on Giallorossi Yorkshire – giving English-speaking Roma fans the chance to explain their love for the club.
The first fan to contribute to Roman Roots is Mario Battista, from Canada, who you can follow on Twitter @BatulliR.
Mario may live more than 7,000km from Rome, but as he explains, the passion embodied by players like Francesco Totti drew him to the club…
When and how did you become a Roma fan?
I became a Roma fan ever since I was a young boy. I am 20 years old and followed in the footsteps of my father who is a Romanista. Although half of my family are Milan supporters, I chose my beloved Roma as legends such as Totti and De Rossi delineated Roma as a club with heart and passion.
What are your earliest memories of Roma?
My earliest memories of Roma are mainly derbies and Totti goals. One memory I’ll never forget is sitting at my Nonna’s house on a Sunday and watching Mirko Vucinic put two past Lazio after being down 1-0.
Who were the first Roma players you can remember liking and why?
The first Roma players I remember liking was of course Francesco Totti and John Arne Riise. I adored Totti because of his ability to make back heels, passes, and goals look so easy. His loyalty was truly unique and he will always be my favourite player.
Riise was a fantastic attacking LB and he defied the laws of a defender as he played like he was a winger. His left foot was great for set pieces and he was such a likeable character.
Embed from Getty ImagesHave you been able to form connections with other Roma fans? If so, how?
In Toronto, it is rare to come across other Romanisti. I mostly encounter Juventinos and Milanistas; however, the odd Romanista I do run into is greatly cherished and we instantly become friends. Twitter is a great place to interact with fellow Romanistas, a place to discuss the team with others who share the same passion as you is a special thing.
What makes you proud to be a Roma fan?
What makes me proud to be a Roma fan is the fact that we are the capital of Italy and many players throughout our history honour the badge. During my generation, players like Totti, De Rossi, and Florenzi illuminated this the best. Those players truly played with their heart every single match and it made me proud because Roma is more than just a club to us, it is our life.
Embed from Getty ImagesGET INVOLVED!
If you would like to be featured on Roman Roots, please send your answers to the five questions listed above to giallorossiyorkshire@gmail.com, including your name and Twitter handle.
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