The legacy of a fan who became an eternal symbol of xeneize passion.
The passion of Boca Juniors is deeply linked to its fans, recognized worldwide as the “Player Number 12”. This nickname was not born by chance, but thanks to the figure of Victoriano “Toto” Caffarenaa man who left an indelible mark on the club’s history.
This notary and fervent follower not only accompanied the team in its historic 1925 European tourbut became a pillar of support in various roles, consolidating a legacy that still lives on in every game and in every blue and gold tribune.
Who was Victoriano “Toto” Caffarena and why is he key in the history of Boca?
Victoriano Caffarena, affectionately known as “Toto”, was a passionate member of Boca Juniors since 1922. This notary, with a notable commitment to the club, stood out for his fundamental role during the team’s first tour of Europe in 1925. At a time without sponsorship or external resources, he decided sell properties to pay for their passage and collaborate with the expenses of some playersdemonstrating incomparable devotion.
His presence in the delegation was not merely symbolic. Throughout the journey that included 19 matches on European soil, Caffarena assumed multiple functions: prop man, masseuse, water boy and even technical director when necessary. The relevance of his figure led forward Agustín Cerrotti to baptize him as “Player Number 12”, recognizing his impact within the group.
Beyond the tour, the scribe continued to contribute to the club in various capacities. He commissioned the composition of Boca’s first anthem in 1926, contributed to the consolidation of the xeneize identity and was a reference among the members. Over time, he was assigned a permanent audience and was distinguished as a life member, in addition to receiving a special tribute during the institution’s 50th anniversary.
Boca Juniors
How did the nickname “Player Number 12” that characterizes the Boca fans come about?
The mythical European tour of 1925 marked a before and after in the history of Boca Juniors. For five months, the team represented Argentina on stages in Spain, France and other countries, achieving 15 victories in 19 games. The trip not only consolidated the club as an international benchmark, but also left a symbolic legacy: the birth of “Player Number 12.”
Caffarena, more than a fan, became an indispensable element for the team. His predisposition and effort to guarantee the well-being of the group earned him that honorary title, immortalized by Cerrotti. Since then, the nickname transcended the notary to represent the fansbecoming an emblem of the passion that distinguishes the club.
The recognition of the Argentine Football Association, which named Boca Honorary Champion for its performance in Europewas the finishing touch to an unforgettable journey. Since then, the figure of “Player Number 12” not only symbolizes Victoriano’s commitment, but also the energy and fervor that each fan carries in his heart.
Source: Ambito
I am a 24-year-old writer and journalist who has been working in the news industry for the past two years. I write primarily about market news, so if you’re looking for insights into what’s going on in the stock market or economic indicators, you’ve come to the right place. I also dabble in writing articles on lifestyle trends and pop culture news.
