THE BIGGEST FAN AT THE BIGGEST GAME
Amanda Filimon, sideline reporter for the Ontario Fury is also a fan of another team. She was even named their biggest fan. That team is the SuperBowl bound Los Angeles Rams.
The NFL launched a contest in partnership with Captain Morgan to find out who really had what it takes to be considered Fan of the Year. Last October, the LA Rams named Filimon not only their Military Hero of the Game but the Fan of the Year. While bragging rights are one thing the grand prize was a little more tangible - tickets to the biggest game on the year - the SuperBowl.
The NFL wrote, "A dedication to service is an understatement when describing Amanda Filimon, a 15-year combat veteran who served in Iraq to help protect her country. Amanda's desire to help secure a better tomorrow did not stop after serving her country. She was called upon to help her community during the COVID-19 pandemic and currently serves as a Registered Nurse with Cedars-Sinai. Amanda continues to put the needs of others above her own and takes care of Covid-19 patients during surgery. When she is called to action, she always answers. Raised in the Midwest, Amanda's love for the Rams is undeniable and even inspired her husband as they became Season Ticket Members the second the Rams returned to LA. The Rams are inspired by her service and truly fortunate to recognize Amanda Filimon as their 2021 Fan of the Year!"
We caught up with Amanda for a quick interview during her whirlwind weekend.
What was the process like for you to become Fan of the Year?
My husband, Christian, nominated me. It was a complete surprise. As season ticket members, he was asked if he wanted to nominate anyone for Fan of the year. As a military veteran, and a nurse at Cedars-Sinai, he thought I would be the perfect person to nominate and apparently the Rams agreed! They chose me amongst thousands of submissions as their Fan of the Year!
How long have you been a fan? And why did you choose the Rams?
I grew up in the Midwest, and the Rams were a big part of my high school years, winning the SuperBowl by senior year. When they moved to St Louis in 1994 they were one of the closest teams to me and since my family was already a fan of the St Louis Cardinals, it only made sense to cheer for them.
Is this your first time attending the Superowl?
Yes! It’s always been a bucket list sporting event for me. I’m so excited to be able to attend and to watch MY team play in it!
What are you most looking forward to about Sunday’s game?
Seeing the Rams win at home in their stadium is first, but just being able to be at one of the biggest sporting events in the US is going to be pretty special
Did you ever think you’d get to see a home SuperBowl?
I remember thinking at the beginning of the season how cool it would be to be able to watch the Rams play at home in the SuperBowl, it didn’t seem that unreasonable but now, knowing it’s happening, it’s surreal. I certainly didn’t think I’d be AT the game watching them though.
What sort of events/commitments are involved in being the “Fan of the Year?”
I’ve been so busy since this all started for me back in November. We’ve had Zoom calls with former NFL players, officiating staff, Roger Goodell, and the SuperBowl planning committee. We’ve had some pretty incredible opportunities that not many people will ever get. I was also chosen to be a part of the video for the Captain Morgan Fan of the Year campaign along with 6 other nominees which you can see online. We got to attend NFL Honors and have lunch with Victor Cruz and Ben Baller.
**editor's note - We saved you the trouble of wading through Google searches - watch her interview with Victor Cruz HERE **
If the Rams win the SuperBowl what atmosphere are we going to see at Tuesday’s Ontario Fury game?
I think it’s going to be electric!! With whatever energy I have left over from this crazy week I’ll be sure to make sure everyone knows that we brought a trophy to SoCal, and I’ll challenge the Fury to be the next to do so!