Celebrate the electrifying start to the Phillies season by diving headfirst into our April #FirstFriday blog series, where we’re kicking things off with none other than the epitome of Philly sports fandom: Jamie Pagliei, better known as The Philly Sports Guy. With his iconic face paint and boundless enthusiasm, Jamie embodies everything it means to be a Philly sports fanatic. From Eagles to Flyers, Phillies to 76ers, Jamie’s passion knows no bounds. We couldn’t wait to delve into the world of The Philly Sports Guy, and we’re thrilled to share our exciting conversation with you below!
PPRG: Jamie, as the Philly Sports Guy, you’ve become a well-known figure in the sports community. Can you share a bit about your journey and what inspired you to become an iconic voice for Philadelphia sports?
JP: I have always been a sports fan since the age of 2. My mother and my grandmother both worked at the Spectrum and the Vet so I had unique access to the teams and the players growing up. At age 10, my mother told me I asked her why people didn’t paint their faces for sports other than football. She told me this when I just began this journey, so I feel it was inspiration from her that helped me start this journey.
PPRG: Face painting has become a signature part of your persona. What inspired you to incorporate this into your identity as the Philly Sports Guy, and what does it symbolize for you?
JP: I feel the face painting signifies the passion of doing this. I would cheer the same way with or without face paint, but with the face paint on, it makes me more tolerable. If I didn’t have it on, people would be like ‘knock it off’ or ‘shut up’. With it on, it’s more acceptable. Almost like I am supposed to be over the top.
PPRG: You have an infectious energy that lights up the screen. What’s your secret for staying hyped and bringing that level of enthusiasm day in and day out?
JP: I have always been very excitable and full of energy. My family would always tell me to slow down or just sit for a minute, or stop yelling, when I am in a normal conversation. I have always been this way and I dont know of any other way to be. I guess I was born this way. It comes out specifically while watching sports, but in my everyday life as well. It is a major part of what makes me, me.
PPRG: You’ve likely encountered some wild and passionate fans. Can you share one of your most memorable fan encounters?
JP: The NFL Draft is one of the largest “Super Fan” gatherings that happens every year. When you get 200 passionate fans together in one location it makes for some fun banter. The most interesting may have been the draft in Nashville. It was my arrival on the scene and it also made me “geek out” on everyone else who was painted and as passionate as me. The party really gets going when the banter starts flowing. It can be quite hysterical.
PPRG: Let’s talk about superstitions. Do you follow any quirky rituals when you need a team to secure a win?
JP: I am not superstitious until we lose a bunch of games in a row. Then I may change something up like attend a game without face paint, or do a different design which I have never done before. But other than that, I don’t really have any superstitions.
PPRG: Philly has many historic sports moments. If you could go back to witness any game or event in Philadelphia sports history, which would you choose and why?
JP: The 1960 Eagles Championship. I think watching Chuck Bednarik play and watch him make the final tackle to clinch the win would truly be something to witness.
PPRG: If you could sum up your love for Philadelphia sports in one iconic Philly phrase or saying, what would it be?
JP: GO BIRDS!!!
PPRG: We’re dying to hear your thoughts on the recent disappearance of Dollar Dog Night! What’s your take on this iconic tradition vanishing from the stadium experience?
JP: I am not as upset as everyone else about this. I remember them giving free tickets to the games in a package of Philly Franks. Dollar dogs were great as a promotion, but the dogs were over or under cooked, the lines were ridiculous, and really they were only good as projectiles, so it’s no surprise to me that they did away with it.
PPRG: Finally, looking ahead to the upcoming season, what team in Philadelphia will have the next championship?
JP: The next Championship will come from the Phillies this November. The Sixers will get closer but are still a year away, and the Flyers need a few more pieces. But in February, expect a 2nd parade with our Birds!
What an absolute blast it was connecting with Jamie and diving deep into the thrilling world of The Philly Sports Guy! Make sure to hop over to Instagram and follow @thephillysportsguy for a front-row seat to all the live excitement and exclusive content! Trust me, you don’t want to miss out on any of the action.
