I planned my trip to Ireland last year, fully aware of how unique the experience would be. I was astounded by the number of Florida State fans who made the journey. My flight to Dublin a week before the game was packed with Seminole fans. Taxi drivers and barkeeps throughout the city were amazed at how well the FSU fan base traveled across the Atlantic for the game.
After crossing the ocean to kick off the 2024 season for a week-zero matchup against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, though, the Seminoles lost their season opener by only three points.
The week leading up to the game, I explored the beauty of Ireland, enjoying the incredible hospitality of the Irish people. In every town I visited, big or small, I encountered groups of fans with diverse stories and locals eager to learn more about “the match,” as they called it. The Irish were a delight, enhancing the overall experience. While American football may never rival the popularity of their beloved soccer, for one week, it was all about the pigskin.
Before a sold-out crowd at Aviva Stadium, FSU was prominently displayed throughout the venue and across the Emerald Isle. The war chant resonated from the pubs of Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher.
On Friday morning, the Global Ireland Football Tournament kicked off, with players from Georgia Tech and Florida State engaging with the youth of Ireland to teach them about American football. The tournament featured six teams from America and Europe. The Marauders of Maclay School in Tallahassee participated, earning a 35-23 victory against the Windham High School Jaguars of New Hampshire.
The Marching Chiefs and cheerleaders gathered at Smithfield Square, temporarily renamed Seminole Square, for a pep rally. Fans rallied in support of the FSU Men’s Rugby Team as they faced off against Trinity College. The ‘Noles were soundly defeated on the pitch.
By Friday night, the Temple Bar neighborhood and many pubs in Dublin overflowed with fans. It had been 265 days since the College Football Playoff Committee abruptly ended the ‘Noles’ 2023 season, and anticipation for redemption was lingering.
Senior Anabella Deloreto traveled to Dublin with her family for the game and had quite the experience.
“The energy in Dublin was truly unmatched. Growing up, I attended countless home games at Doak and traveled to away games, but nothing compares to the experience of seeing Garnet & Gold take over Ireland. The Seminole spirit was alive and well, and I loved soaking up every moment of it,” Deloreto said.
The morning of the game, the city bustled with nervous energy. College Gameday made its 2024 season debut, filming its first-ever show abroad on Trinity College Green. Fans camped outside the gates hours before the start of the game in hopes of getting their signs on TV.
The Garnet and Gold arrived from an offseason of frustration with pent-up energy, ready to kick off the 2024 season. Thanks to the Marching Chiefs, Aviva Stadium sounded like Doak Campbell Stadium but with a European twist. During halftime, they performed a rendition of the classic Irish song, “Danny Boy,” in an ode to the Irish hosts.
The disappointment was palpable when the final kick snuck through the uprights, with Georgia Tech players storming the field in celebration when the clock struck zero. Hearts sank, tears flowed, faces palmed, but not even a loss could dampen the immense pride I felt for my university. Although the outcome wasn’t in the ’Noles favor, I will never forget my experience in Ireland.
