Footy star’s Italian grandfathers try to pronounce his teammate’s names – sending the players into hysterics

• Massimo D’Ambrosio has strong Italian heritage 
• He quizzed his proud Nonnos (grandfathers)  
• The results were heartwarming 

By JOSH ALSTON FOR DAILY MAIL AUSTRALIA

Hawthorn might have a new sitcom on their hands, after fans welcomed a heartwarming video involving the Italian grandparents of young gun Massimo D’Ambrosio.

The clip, shared on the club’s social media channels, shows D’Ambrosio quizzing both of his ‘Nonni’ – one from his mother’s side and one from his father’s – as they attempt to pronounce the names of his teammates.

The results had players and fans in stitches.

In the video, Jake Scrimshaw became ‘Jake Scriminations’ and ‘Jake Screaming Sherriff’, William McCabe was dubbed ‘William Macaron’, and Ned Reeves was hilariously transformed into ‘Needa Reverse’.

It was a moment of pure joy that quickly gained traction online.

‘This is so so gorgeous,’ one fan commented.

Hawks star Massimo D’Ambrosio has a strong Italian heritage with a big family supporting him

The Hawks young gun decided to quiz his two Nonno on how to pronounce his teammates’ names

It was all fun and games, with some hilarious results, and plenty of laughter amongst the players and the family

Another wrote: ‘We need a nonno series admin, this is so good.’

Hawthorn supporters called for more of the content, with one plea summing up the general mood: ‘Have to make this a series. Bellissimi Nonni D’Ambrosio.’

D’Ambrosio, who joined Essendon in 2022 before moving to Hawthorn in 2023, has quickly become a fan favourite not just for his skills but for moments like this.

The 20-year-old’s journey to the AFL hasn’t been without its setbacks.

He missed out on the national draft in a year heavily impacted by COVID-19, which initially left him deflated.

‘I definitely had a bit of a down period after the draft,’ he admitted.

‘But then I sat with my coaches and figured the things out that we were going to do to get me to this position.’

That mindset eventually earned him a mid-season draft selection and later a trade to Hawthorn.

When his name was finally called out by Essendon, it was a deeply emotional moment.

‘I had all the family that have supported me along the way,’ D’Ambrosio said.

‘It was special to have them with me to enjoy the moment.’

His player agent Jamie Pi reflected on that day, sharing a touching post: ‘Nonno was in tears, in his Collingwood FC jumper as his grandson Massimo’s name was called out by @essendonfc.’

‘This is what it’s all about for me. Now it all begins for young Massi, a chance at it. Thank you for letting me be part of it.’

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Footy star’s Italian grandfathers try to pronounce his teammate’s names – sending the players into hysterics

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