Phillies Home Opener Attracts Fans Eager To See Hometown Team Win
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — For many, Opening Day is nearly a holiday.
Joe Schneberger is a familiar face at the ballpark, selling programs at every game for decades.
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"41 years," he said.
The game is perhaps the only sign of spring at the moment.
"Aside from it being very, cold — there's a warm feeling," said longtime fan Jerry Ventresca of Ambler.
Tens of thousands of fans packed Citizens Bank Park on Thursday for the Phillies home opener against the Miami Marlins.
"As a kid, I always got to come to the park so it's great to bring my kids and their cousins for Opening Day and having a great time together," said Meredith Becker of Cherry Hill.
It's a family tradition that only continues to build their love of the sport.
13-year-old Richie Burger learned to play baseball from his dad.
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"He's been playing forever so it carries on to me basically," the Northeast Philadelphia native said.
Considering how successful of a year it's been for Philadelphia sports, fans say it's the Phillies' turn now.
"After the Eagles won, I keep saying, 'Pinch me!' It's nice to be in the city of champions," Ventresca said.
