It was an invite-only event designed for the local community, especially children and football academies. Around 800 people attended, including many Croatian fans who travelled from all parts of the USA. The atmosphere at the training was excellent, particularly around the pitch, where supporters enjoyed themselves. Tamburitza players from the St Joseph Society in Pittsburgh also appeared, accompanied by children in traditional folk costumes.
“Croatia has arrived at the World Cup because that is where it belongs,” rang out a traditional bećarac. There was also singing of Thompson’s “Lijepa li si...”
“This means a great deal to all of us; it is a huge moment for Croatian communities in the United States. We are excited and cannot wait for the start of the tournament,” said Dario Barišić between two bursts of tamburitza music. Barišić is originally from Đakovo and has lived in the US since 2002.
The excitement was also shared by American Eric, who received Croatian citizenship a month ago. His wife’s grandfather travelled from Brač via Australia to the United States. “I’m an American born in D.C., but now I’m Croatian, he said with a smile, adding that his daughter Bri was with him.
“I love football, especially Modrić and Perišić – they are outstanding. I hope the ‘Vatreni’ go far in the tournament,” his daughter said.
Alexandria Mayor Alyia Gaskins also attends the first training session of the “Vatreni”
“We are excited and delighted to host one of the best national teams in the world. For us, this is a great opportunity to welcome such a major team, but also to showcase all that Alexandria has to offer,” Alexandria Mayor Alyia Gaskins said attending the event
This is a moment of celebration for sport and football, but also an opportunity to build a lasting friendship. I hope that through our hospitality, excellent sporting facilities and safe environment, we will put ourselves on the map of sports tourism, the mayor added.