The Greek-American community helped brighten the mood during the Philadelphia Phillies game against the Baltimore Orioles at Citizen Park on June 18. The gloomy atmosphere was left behind as the Greek-American baseball fans took their seats at section 104 and 106, wearing their blue and white colors, and waving Greek flags to commemorate Greek Heritage night.
Furthermore, the crowd enjoyed a performance by the Olympian dance troupe of St. Luke Greek Orthodox church, who danced before the game and after the 5th inning.
American Hellenic Institute president Nick Larigakis had the honor of throwing the first ball of the game, while Greek-American Elena Stavrakas sang the national Anthem.
The event was sponsored by the American Hellenic Institute in Washington, the Federation of Hellenic-American Societies of Philadelphia and Greater Delaware Valley, Cosmos Philly and the Hellenic News of America.
However, the performances were not the highlight of the evening, since Greek-American Chris Papadeas stole the spotlight when he popped the question to his significant other, Despina Sourias, after the 4th inning on the stands in section 104.
The couple was surrounded by Greek community members and cameras that broadcasted to the stadium screen. Everyone’s attention was turned to Papadeas surprising his girlfriend -now fiancée- who gladly accepted.
More than 25,000 fans cheered the couple and wished them all the best, before they returned to the much-awaited game.
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