ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — The footprint of Atlanta Braves baseball fandom stretches across the country.
Todd and Anita Dressen are all the proof you need.
“So we got married in October (2016), but we put off the honeymoon part of it to be able to come to Opening Day at Truist Park,” Anita said.
The Los Angeles-based couple went to their first Braves game together in 2013 at Turner Field.
Todd and Anita Dressen have not missed an opening day, apart from COVID, since 2017.(Anita Dressen)
“I actually got a ball signed by Freddie Freeman and I got the first base bag from that game, which is in my office still,” Todd said.
Todd had been a fan his entire life.
“Coming home from school and doing homework, the only team that was on TV was the Atlanta Braves,” he said. ”It was America’s team.”
Todd had his bachelor party at the last game played at Turner Field. He and Anita have not missed an opening day – except for COVID – since 2017.
“We’ve never been to a better opening day anywhere,” Anita said.
Braves Opening Day is how the couple celebrates their anniversary every year.
“Right when I step off that plane, I always tell Anita, ‘ I’m home,’” Todd said.
Todd is a 20-year veteran of the Los Angeles Police Department. His 300-person division only has three Braves fans, and their jurisdiction includes Dodger Stadium.
“I’m in enemy territory,” he said.
The Dressen’s said they’ll eventually move to the Atlanta area in retirement.
“This is where I want to be, with my Braves,” Todd said.
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