Today, Nicole said that her mom looked like Milton from "Office Space." "Umm...Wow." was about all I could muster, with a look of sheer terror juxtaposed on my face. This was just a small side dish of the humorous dinner conversation at Pincio. We talked of gossip and past relationships and etiquette for God knows how long, boring me to tears, but for the after-dinner gelato, jolting taste buds on my tongue I didn't know existed, it was almost worth it. Please, hold your applause for a taste reference until the end. As a side note, Blue Ice brand gelati is the most excellent of all the gelati, a great dessert at a great price! The dinner conversation spurred me to become involved in a more masculine activity, such as anything other than talking about gossip. Hearing of a pair of soccer courts on the outskirts of town, I decided to enjoy some sport while savoring the last few remnants of incredible gelato.
Past the cluttered streets surrounding the piazza, abounding with fashion and gelato shops, are the enthused groups of young Cagliese soccer fanatics. They emulate the popular David Beckham, a fine soccer player, I think, though my soccer knowledge is less extensive than that of a child in the womb. These youngsters shout vivaciously at the curious American photographer as he slides through the broken fence with the hope of getting great action shots. There are about twelve kids, one with a Cincinnatti Bengals jersey on, oblivious to the fact that Carson Palmer alone cannot save a pathetic sports franchise.

Ground view of the playground..complete with stadium-familiar litter!
  There are many future David Beckhams here. Thinking that I am a reporter from Sports Illustrated, the children play with the same vigor as an intense overtime World Cup match. In 1994, famous Italian soccer player Roberto Baggio cost the national team a world title by failing to convert on a penalty kick in overtime. The jovial youth on these courts long for the day when they can make up for nine years of heartache for dads and uncles over Baggio's misfortune.

Journal by Jason Gorsuch

  I can tell here that, just like in American elementary school dodge ball, the slightly overweight kids and the vertically-challenged contingent still get picked last for the games. One hot shot uses his quick feet to dart by three defenders to shoot into a rickety old goal, without the luxury of netting. The air smells of hot blacktop and my own sweat, with a gorgeous view of the bright afternoon sun serving as backdrop for the mountains. The boy lifts his arms triumphantly as though he were the greatest player for Milan or Juventus. The games continue well into the night. Even with concerned mothers and annoying younger sisters calling the boys for a late evening meal, the sound of shuffling feet and youthful exuberance still goes on, long into the setting sun.
  RETURN TO TOP The boys dreams of having fans one day at the town stadium...