During the Como–Bologna match on January 10, Anna and her family were our special guests for a memorable day at Stadio Sinigaglia. Their presence was made possible by the nomination of her niece Ilaria as part of the #Cheers4Christmas charitable initiative last December, a gesture that began as a personal gift and, over time, grew into an opportunity for sharing and broader support.
“I had the pleasure and amazement of experiencing a truly unique day, one that directly involved me, my family, and the association I preside over. I encountered outstretched hands, smiles, kindness, generosity, and great professionalism. It was a joy to recognize each player of Como and Cesc Fàbregas. I hadn’t been to a stadium in many years, and it felt like I was still the girl cheering for Tardelli, Rigamonti, and their teammates, singing and shouting 'Open the gates for Comm’s goals!'” Anna recounted, her words full of emotion.
During the day, Anna enjoyed a full VIP Match Day Experience: from discovering the history of the stadium and the club, to visiting the areas reserved for the team and the media, to watching the players’ warm-up from the sidelines and following the match from the stands amid chants, blue scarves, and expressions of wonder. The experience was made even more special by the gift of a jersey signed by all the players of Como 1907.
Yet the value of this experience went far beyond the pitch. Through the #Cheers4Christmas initiative, Como 1907 also decided to support Incontro tra Popoli, the association Anna presides over. Founded in July 2000, in the spirit of the Jubilee, Incontro tra Popoli was born from the dedication of a small group of people eager to build genuine connections and bridges of solidarity, promoting shared responsibility among communities and peoples.
The association’s story traces back to a real-life encounter in Uggiate Trevano, where families and representatives from distant countries, from Croatia to Togo, from Bangladesh to Cambodia, gathered, united by the desire to share experiences, cultures, and hope. Since then, Incontro tra Popoli has promoted simple but meaningful acts: smiles, hospitality, and daily support, with particular attention to children in need.
For over twenty-five years, the association has supported the orphanages of Sister Martha Herma in Kovié and Notsé, Togo, providing hygiene and healthcare, regular meals, and continuous educational guidance. Thanks to the support received from Como 1907, this commitment can continue and grow, opening new opportunities for collaboration and aid.
“Being recognized as an organization that operates locally and, in its own way, promotes solidarity and the human and cultural development of children fills us with pride and honors us. It is a strong incentive to move forward and continue our work. The news of what happened had a powerful emotional impact on all members of the association and sparked renewed interest in the activities we have carried out so far and will continue throughout 2026. Many people have taken this opportunity to learn more about the association, its goals, and its mission,” Anna explained, highlighting the shared emotion among all members and the renewed enthusiasm for future projects.
An experience that began as a personal gift and became a shared gesture. A meeting point between sport and solidarity, between the heart of a team and that of a community. Because, as the words guiding Incontro tra Popoli remind us, even a smile, a small act of kindness, a helping hand can leave a lasting mark. And, far from the pitch but not from the spirit of the game, it can become the most beautiful goal.