Italian-American Festival culminates in soccer match

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Sarah Gregory
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy (USAFENS) --  Two communities came together for an evening of sports, games and friendship during a soccer match and traditional American-style barbecue festival Aug. 16.

During the festival, the Aviano Air Base varsity soccer team defeated the Italian air force 5-2 in a soccer match.

“The most important thing is not that we won but that we had fun playing a game we love with our hosts,” said Master Sgt. Lorenzo Torres, the Aviano soccer team coach. “I believe we have earned the respect of our hosts in this European-dominated sport.”

The game was the final event in the two-week long festival featuring folklore dancing groups from Greece, Russia, Serbia, Mexico and Hungary as well as Aviano. Other festival events included orchestras and live band performances.

“The game and festivities allowed the Italians and Americans to fellowship with one another in a fun, relaxing and recreational atmosphere,” said Brian Colonna, the Aviano Community Center director and event coordinator. “It's an opportunity for both nationalities to experience and learn more about each others cultures and become international good neighbors."

In order to promote community relations between the base and local residents, the Aviano Community Center and town of Aviano planned the game as part of a special Italian-American Festival day.

“Events like this are especially important because they allow the American and local Italian communities to come out, meet and have a good time together in an informal way,” said Brig. Gen. Robert Yates, 31st Fighter Wing commander.

The wing commander and the Aviano mayor were invited to play with their respective teams in the game.

After the game, the local community and soccer teams were treated to a barbecue celebration featuring music and outdoor games.

“The American population is considered a part of the local community and we look for occasions like this to get together in a pleasant, social way,” said Paulo Tarchi, 31st Fighter Wing public affairs. “Often we work together on formal affairs that don’t touch the heart of people; sporting events are an informal way to meet and to bring that out.”