On the eve the Alabama Crimson Tide football team gets an opportunity to punch its ticket to another national championship game, I've been considering why college football matters so much to me. My team is doing great... been doing great for several years now. They are approaching dynasty status. But I watch and enjoy other teams too, college and pro. So if Alabama faltered, it wouldn't have been just a phase.
Every fall Saturday, since 2006, I've paid close attention to the Tide. I watch, recap, or hear about all the games. I follow practices, press conferences, recruiting, etc. I youtube game highlights. I like collecting Alabama memorabilia. It's a big cycle, and my people in Alabama are in on it too.
So, why? Why do I care? What does it do for me? Why do we act like this - Bama Nation Reacts - The Rally in Death Valley ?
The fact is, most Alabama fans don't feel they need to explain themselves. It's fun. It's tradition. A reason to meet up with buddies at the bar or sit in the den with your father.
It creates talking points with strangers. I met a guy from South Carolina tonight, and we connected talking about football, propelling our conversation from courteous to substantial.
When I talk to my 15-year old brother, we're different and don't have a lot of mutually fascinating things to discuss, but we thrive on talking football.
To me, football serves as a form of relief. An instant charge and excuse to get excited, possibly when there is nothing else to get excited about. It's been a chance to take my mind off serious things, especially the hustle n' bustle of the past couple of years. It's about the thrill of competition. Watching players mix and match. Witnessing good athletes reach their potential and make history. Sitting on the edge of your seat. Having a good time.
I'll be getting more rolled eyes, for some people don't think that calls for the manic nature sports fan have. But let me say. Football, and any sport for that matter, binds people. It lets our hair down and saves us from taking life's routines too seriously.
i love this,nick! when i married steve, he was not into any sports and i quickly realized i missed that! i think it is great for you to have something like that to make life more fun, no matter what sport or team. i am just thankful we are rolling with the winning team. . .rtr!
ReplyDelete