Calciatore Americano

Development players take a break from the rain to watch the U.S. vs. Italy game

Would you say calcio or soccer; attaccanti or striker? Domenico Parrelli, a proud Italian-American, from Met Oval was taught to embrace both cultures and, have the best of both worlds. "My mom and dad are from Italy, I speak Italian, and go there every year," Parrelli said. " Growing-up as an Italian-American kid, I root for the U.S. But, when it's U.S. vs. Italy, I go for Italy."

At the Development Academy Lounge attendees and players took a break from competition to watch the U.S. Under-23 Men's National Team vs. Italy match at the 2008 Toulon International Tournament. Although Parrelli rooted for Italy he said U.S. Soccer has made giant leaps in the last few years.

"The U.S. is developing its style of play and being able to face teams like Italy only helps us improve. The Development Academy is playing a big part in showing the world we can play with the elite teams." Parelli does not hide his Italian background but, says he hopes to play for the Stars and Stripes, one day. "I'm focused on becoming a great player and playing for the U.S. National."