Keysborough’s Emma and Maria Grella this week left for Germany to cheer for son and brother Vince as he represents the Socceroos at the soccer World Cup.
By Shaun Inguanzo
VINCE GRELLA’S family toiled through years of muddy clothing and rainy Dandenong weather but is now only days away from seeing its son realise a World Cup soccer dream in Germany.
The Grellas left Keysborough this morning (Thursday) to depart for Germany to watch the Socceroos play in all three group stage, and any finals, matches.
Twenty-six-year-old Vince Grella, who was raised in Keysborough and began his soccer journey with Springvale City Soccer Club, will be a starting player for the Socceroos.
His mum Maria, dad Tony and sister Emma say Vince and his team-mates will draw on their skill, and perhaps a little luck, as the Aussies take on the world’s best, including reigning World Cup champion, Brazil.
Maria this week told Star that reaching the World Cup was a dream come true for Vince.
“It is fantastic, I am really happy and naturally really proud of Vince,” she said.
“When they are kids playing sport you do the running around on muddy and wet days, and you do it because you are a parent.
“When something like this comes about you think, oh God, and it’s really weird.
“But Vince has worked hard to get to where he is. Nothing comes easy, and the whole family is really proud.”
The Grellas will not only support the Socceroos, but will act as a personal cheersquad for Vince.
Clothing giant Nike has supplied the family with authentic Vince Grella match tops – complete with a large number 13 and the traditional green and gold colours.
Vince now lives in Italy with his wife and twin daughters, and plays club football with Parma FC.
Sister Emma, 23, said she was rushing to finish a university thesis before spending several months overseas to see the World Cup and then spend time with Vince at his residence in Italy.
“I will be staying in Italy until September, just holidaying and hanging-out with him, his wife and kids,” she said.
“Vince has been gone since 1998, so I probably see him only once a year,” Emma said.
With matches against Japan, Croatia and Brazil, the road may be challenging for the Socceroos, but the Grellas believe anything is possible.
“I am sure they will do well and hopefully we get through the first round and make the second, at least,” Maria said.
“On the day, it will be anyone’s game. It could be who puts in the most effort, or who has the most luck.”
