Calcio Storico in Florence

jaculler-since you're holding out on the 'what's that?' question, I went to visitflorence.com and found this:
The Calcio Storico Fiorentino is a combination of soccer, rugby and big time wrestling originated in 16th century Florence and played today in historical costume. The four teams of the historical neighborhoods of the city play against each other, first in two semi-finals and then the final match to determine the winner.

To answer your question as to whether this would be fun for a twelve year old boy, oh heck yes it would-you knew that, right? Tips on going, no, but if I were twelve again, I would definitely want to see this! Have fun; making note of this in the Italy bookmarks.

He'll love it. He'll see 4 sports events in one: Rugby, Soccer, Boxing and Greco-Roman Wrestling.
The game is notoriously violent in the field (basically it's like rugby where any kind of violence is permitted) however fans get rowdy on the stands too therefore keep an eye on brawls. Avoid wearing colors from any of the 4 teams from the 4 historical districts of. Florence (blue, white, red, green), so that the opposing fans don't target you.
Wearing the colors of the Fiorentina soccer team (violet purple) will ensure that you are liked by everybody in Florence, regardless of district.
Google "Florence. Fight Club" and watch the documentary on YouTube (or just the trailer)

No tips for you, but hope it's a unique adventure!

Great input, thanks everyone - what a way to spend our last evening in Italy! Just need to buy a violet shirt now! Thanks!