15 athletes who are grandparents at heart

FOXBOROUGH, MA - JANUARY 16: Patriots quarterback Tom Brady leaves the field after the Patriots defeated the Chiefs 27-20. The New England Patriots hosted the Kansas City Chiefs in an AFC divisional playoff game at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Mass., Saturday, Jan. 16, 2016. (Photo by John Tlumacki/The Boston Globe via Getty Images) /

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REGGIO NELL’EMILIA, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 05: Gianluigi Buffon of Italy celebrates at the end of the FIFA 2018 World Cup Qualifier between Italy and Israel at Mapei Stadium – Citta’ del Tricolore on September 5, 2017 in Reggio nell’Emilia, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images) /

8. Gianluigi Buffon

The legend known as Gianluigi Buffon is the epitome of the friendly grandpa. He’s a man who is usually smiling, giving a thumbs up, and hugging anyone he sees. You know that when you see Grandpa Buffon, you’re going to be treated with kindness.

Here’s what I imagine a trip to Grandpa Buffon’s house to be like:

First, you’re greeted with a big hug. Then, he asks you how soccer camp has been going. You tell him you’re struggling a bit and he says, “that’s ok, champ. We’ll go out back later on and I’ll show you some tricks.” This brings a big smile to your face. Next, he gives you a gift. Grandpa Buffon always has a gift. It’s a new pair of soccer cleats. You immediately put on your new cleats and had to the backyard to work with one of the greatest goalkeepers of all-time.

Even though you’re not very good at soccer, Grandpa Buffon remains positive with you. It makes you believe you’re good. Sure, your spirit gets crushed at your next game, but there’s Grandpa Buffon on the sideline to give you a big hug and a new set of shin guards.

Buffon is even kind to those who are not his grandkids. You can be the best friend or on the rival team and Grandpa Buffon will still give you a big hug and a sweat band. That’s just the kind of grandpa he is. He’s the kindest grandpa around and don’t let anyone tell you different.

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