Ontario resident, Ralph Valdez, starts most of his days out in the same way — a glass of golden orange juice and his bright blue shirt.
- Super fan was introduced to team by his grandfather
- Dubbed his living room "The Rams Room"
- Son is now a flag bearer for the team
The colors are a nod to Valdez' favorite football team, the Los Angeles Rams, because it's a big week for the franchise. Plus, Valdez is no ordinary fan. Step into his home and it's very easy to see Valdez is a super fan.
"About 1967, my grandfather introduced me to the Rams," he said. "Once I saw the horns and the helmet, I became a Rams fan. I've always loved the Rams.
In fact, he loves the team so much that his living room has been rebranded as 'The Rams Room,' a place to store the memorabilia he has amassed over the years. From signed jerseys, to footballs, and everything in between. The centerpiece includes a frames jersey of Super Bowl Champion quarterback, Kurt Warner, who Valdez says is "a favorite player."
His collection is fitting because in addition to cheering on the team on his own, Valdez is also the president of the SoCal Rams Booster Club. He founded it 15 years ago back when the team was still based in St. Louis.
"My wife, I and some friends started the club in 2004,"Valdez explained. "We’ve been through some ups and downs, mostly downs, through some losing seasons."
And tired of watching the Rams alone in Los Angeles, he wanted to build a community.
"Because that’s what Ramily means," he said with a smile. "It’s not just being a Rams fan, it's about taking care of your community, watching out after each other."
His entire family has gotten in on the action and his oldest son, Matthew, now works for the team as a flag bearer. He'll be on hand at the Super Bowl, something father and son are both excited over.
After years of losing, Valdez said, "the Rams are back," and couldn't wait for a member of his Ramily to see them live at Super Bowl LIII.