Buenos Aires, December 12 (NA) — December 12 (12/12) is a very special date for the “xeneizes” fans, as it officially celebrates the Boca Juniors Fan Day. According to the Argentine News Agency, the choice of this date is entirely symbolic and is directly related to the club's identity and its fans.
The numerical origin: the "player number 12"
The date was chosen because it coincides with the repetition of the number 12: December 12 (month number 12). This number refers to the most famous and emblematic nickname of Boca's fans: "The Player Number 12" or simply "La 12".
The meaning of "La 12"
The term "Player Number 12" symbolizes the vital importance and influence of the fans on the team's performance, considering them an additional player on the field, with the ability to influence the game and the spirit of the footballers.
Although the exact origin of the nickname dates back to a tour of Europe in 1925, considered a historic milestone as the first Argentine team to travel to the Old Continent.
Its baptism and naming as Player No. 12 was given by the top scorer Agustín Cerroti, who associated the number 12 with the fans, as a symbol that they are one more player on the field.
The celebration, which began spontaneously among the fans over a decade ago, gained strength until it became a recognized party celebrated with massive gatherings every December 12.
In the midst of the event, a fan named Victoriano Caffarena was sent as a special correspondent by the newspaper El Telégrafo, not only did he form part of that group, but also, thanks to his great solidarity, several footballers were able to travel.
The notary and confessed fan of the club had to donate part of his properties to make the arrival in the old continent possible and became a key figure in motivating the team.
