Romania
Club History
Does your country have a saying/slogan?
Hai Romania!
Can you tell us your team’s make up? How did your team come together?
We came together as a team so we can represent and promote Romania and the Romanian culture to the Greater Philadelphia Area. We are a mixture of old and younger men happy to play for our nation.
How do you think soccer in general (and the Unity Cup in particular) promotes inclusivity?
There is something about soccer that brings people together. I’d call it “soccer magic.” I witnessed it at the two World Cup tournaments I’ve been at (Brazil ’14 and Russia’18). I can’t really describe it, it just happens—all the language barriers disappear, the cultures just start to show the best traits in each one of them, and then everyone seems to have a great time together, regardless of the rivalry on the pitch.
The Unity Cup is a great replica of a World Cup, and the fact that it started here in Philly is awesome!
What places (such as restaurants, cultural centers, or groups in Philadelphia) would you recommend to someone if they wanted to learn more about the culture of the country your team represents?
We have two Romanian churches here in Philly, and I encourage everyone to visit them. They often have Romanian food festivals, music, and dancing. There is also a Romanian Professionals Organization that offers scholarships to Romanian students in the Greater Philadelphia Area. Then there is a Romanian restaurant, Cafe Lava (13033 Bustleton Ave.). It’s my recommendation if you’d like to stop by for lunch or dinner and taste some delicious Romanian dishes.
What’s one thing you wish more people knew about your team’s country?
It is a major tourist attraction to Europeans that North Americans, South Americans, and Africans may not have yet to discover. Relatively inexpensive, amazing food, great history, and beautiful beaches.