Philly sports collector's museum gets vatican vip treatment – and a villanova jersey
A collector’s paradise in New Jersey just got a whole lot more exclusive. The DePace Sports Museum of Champions, a sprawling shrine to sporting history, recently hosted a private audience with Pope Leo XIV, a moment the museum’s founder, Dr. Nicholas DePace, described as ‘beyond once in a lifetime.’
A gift from the heartland
Forget the Super Bowl – that’s child’s play. DePace, a former NASA data analyst with a strangely specific passion for memorabilia, presented the Pope with a curated collection of Philadelphia treasures: a golden statue of Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, the actual trunks they wore during “The Fight of the Century” in 1971, and even Babe Ruth’s locker. It’s a testament to the city’s enduring sporting legacy, a tradition DePace fiercely champions.
But the real story isn’t just the artifacts. It’s the connection. Apparently, the Pope is a proud Villanova alum. A thoughtful gesture – a custom Villanova basketball jersey, an autographed White Sox photo from their 2005 World Series victory, and a game-used football from the 1946 Bears championship season – went down a treat. “I think we made him happy,” DePace said, “and we wanted to bring some joy to him as he’s bringing joy to everybody else.”
More than just objects
The museum itself is a potent reminder of how Sports transcend borders. It’s a place where people reconnect, sharing memories and stories – the kind that stick with you, the kind you tell your dad. DePace’s own experience underscores that: three weeks ago in Rome, he was face-to-face with the Pontiff, a connection facilitated by a keen-eyed friend who recognized Leo XIV’s Chicago roots.
With the Flyers battling for a playoff spot, DePace is, predictably, hoping for a little divine intervention. “I wouldn’t count them out,” he stated emphatically. “Miracles can happen, the pope will tell you that. Even though he’s not a Flyers fan, I’m sure he’d be excited if they were to get into the Stanley Cup.” It’s a sentiment that perfectly encapsulates the museum’s core mission: uniting people through the shared passion of sport. The Flyers' push for the Cup, combined with the Pope's visit, has injected a serious dose of good fortune into the region.