Thanksgiving Day at Texas Stadium provided the backdrop for 15-year-old Flavio's wish. The football fanatic wanted to combine his love for the Dallas Cowboys with his love for his family. The result – he wished to attend a Cowboys game with his relatives.
"I've always loved the Cowboys," he explained, "and my family has always been a big part of my life. I wanted to be able to share my special wish with all of them."
Before Flavio could catch the action of the matchup against the Denver Broncos, he had an opportunity to create some special memories. The day before the game, the teen and several friends toured Texas Stadium. Afterwards, they traveled to Valley Ranch to meet the players and get autographs. Flavio met team owner Jerry Jones and many players – including his hero, star running back Emmitt Smith, who autographed Flavio's #22 Cowboys jersey.
The next day, the Cowboys squared off against the Broncos. The day began with Flavio arriving at the stadium early in a limo. A special Cowboys escort took him to the field to meet former Dallas football stars Charlie Waters and Babe Laufenberg. Before going to his suite to join his family, Flavio enjoyed a private visit with Roger Staubach in his suite. Roger welcomed the teen by saying, "I was expecting you!" Flavio received a Cowboys watch, a hat, and signed pictures.
Although the Cowboys eventually lost to the visiting Broncos, 26-24, Flavio and his family enjoyed plenty of food and entertainment. The young fan and 28 family members took in the game action from two adjoining luxury suites, where they enjoyed a fully-catered Thanksgiving feast. Additionally, they were mesmerized by a magician and got to watch a halftime show by music group Creed.
Flavio's mother Maria saw the positive effect the wish had on her son. "I haven't seen him smile like this in such a long time. It's so wonderful to be able to stand back and watch him enjoy this experience so much."
This page can be found at http://www.wish.org/stories/sports_entertainment/sports/flavio_the_cowboys_fan
©2006 Make-A-Wish Foundation®