There’s no such thing as a casual bocce match at the Sons of Italy, Gabriele D’Annunzio Lodge 321 in Rotterdam. At least not for some in the men’s league. Pat Corniello, one longtime player with the league and member of the Sons of Italy often finds himself hollering advice at other players. 

“He’s the biggest advice giver, whether you like it or not, he’s got an opinion,” said Fred Mastroianni, the league’s commissioner. Corniello has been playing for decades, as have many in the league. “We’re from Italy, most of the guys here. We used to play there too,” Corniello said, “We try to keep up the tradition.”