Sport Lisboa e Benfica marks its 121st anniversary today, a milestone celebrated by millions of devoted fans worldwide.

While my own 38 years represent only a sliver of the club’s storied history, I, like countless others, have experienced Benfica’s passion from afar.

Growing up in the United States during the late 1980s and 1990’s, it would have been easy to lose touch with my Portuguese heritage. However, my generation, and those like it, maintained a strong sense of pride and commitment.

For most of us, Benfica is inextricably linked to Portugal— o clube do povo, the people’s club.

Sundays were dedicated to listening to matches on shortwave radio or, on fortunate occasions, watching them on RTPi, in the pre-internet and BTV era. I vividly recall rushing home from school to catch Benfica’s Champions League games in most cases on the radio, and even, as a teenager, skipping the last half-hour of classes to drive forty minutes to watch the match with friends (don’t tell my parents).

No obstacle was too great when it came to following Benfica. Time zone differences meant matches often fell during school or work hours, but we were undeterred. Our fathers would leave construction sites early, gathering around the television with us.

Though we couldn’t attend weekend matches at Estádio da Luz like those in Portugal, we still sought to be part of the club. We sent checks to Portugal for sócio cards, a tangible symbol of our devotion. Our lives, despite the distance, revolved around Benfica’s schedule, and in many cases, still do.

In my 38 years, Benfica has gifted me a spectrum of emotions: joy, frustration, uncertainty, optimism, and unwavering pride. It’s been an emotional rollercoaster, one I wouldn’t trade for anything.

Through Benfica, I’ve forged lasting friendships, created cherished memories, and, through our platform, helped realize the dreams of fellow fans.

Today, I feel an overwhelming sense of pride in belonging to this remarkable club, a feeling I’m passing on to my son (7) and daughter (2), both sócios since birth.

As we celebrate Benfica’s 121st year, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to all fans outside Portugal who go the extra mile to stay connected.

Viva o Sport Lisboa e Benfica!