Family and friends celebrate Abby Wambach's gold medal

Posted at: 08/10/2012 12:25 AM | Updated at: 08/10/2012 12:33 AM
By: Lynette Adams | WHEC.com

Mission complete for Pittsford native Abby Wambach and the U.S Women's soccer team. They beat Japan today to win their third straight gold medal.

Many of Abby Wambach's fans and family members packed the Back Nine Grill to watch the gold medal game on Thursday afternoon.

Matt Wambach, Abby's older brother, who owns the restaurant, threw a celebration and viewing party.

Every area of the Pittsford Bar and Restaurant was packed. Moans and cheering could be heard from the moment the property was entered. People old and young, friends, family, strangers and even visitors from Japan, gathered to celebrate. They told News10NBC that they enjoyed the game, from the atmosphere to the show of patriotism.

One family friend travelled all the way from Iowa to be here. Shannon Olney, a family friend of the Wambach's said, "Nobody in the midwest knows what it's like to have a true hometown hero like Abby Wambach. I've spent many a days watching the games from afar wishing I was with home with family and friends, wishing I could experience this."

Local residents also expressed their support for Wambach. Kevin Murphy, Rochester resident said, "Oh it's a great atmosphere...its just got a Rochester feel to it. Everybody's rooting for Abby obviously".

Henrietta resident, Charlotte Jaanimag said, "I thought it was a fantastic game, well played. US worked hard. The Japanese had a great team...but we came out on top."

Irondequoit resident, Ginger Jones, said, "I knew that they would win, and the fans were fantastic. Everybody showed their support and everything.So yeah, it was awesome".

Penny Wilkson, Henrietta resident, said "What an amazing game...USA..."

If you want to see Team USA play in person, they will be playing against Costa Rica in September at Sahlen's Stadium. Tickets will go on sale soon, and News10NBC will keep you posted.

Have a story you want our news team to investigate? Call us at 585-232-1010, click here to send us an e-mail or leave us a Facebook post or tweet.

Print Story