Susan Football Journey
As I reflected on the last two months of my online and offline journey, I thought I’d share my past experiences with football, so you can see how far I’ve come. I shall refer to them as the football firsts.
Childhood
I remember my family’s first attempts to attract me to sports. My brother would collect these tiny, adorable baseball and football helmets that he got from gumball machines. He and my dad would show me the helmets and teach me the team names. Then they’d come back later and quiz me! Although I didn’t watch football on TV, I loved the challenge and the game and always impressed. Check out the NCAA (college football) version on eBay.
High School
Some of my closest friends were on the football team. Believe it or not, I went to most Saturday games. I was even featured in a yearbook photo or two cheering on the Maine South Hawks. But alas, my mind was often elsewhere: the party we were going to that night, the upcoming dance, you name it.
College
During my glorious four years at Illinois State University, I threw myself into school. A double major, sorority, study abroad in Spain and no lack of committees and social gatherings. I also attended a football game here and there. Of course, there were lots of greek letters and cheers involved….and usually a party or two afterwards. So, did I learn much then? Um….no.
Post-college
A few years ago, a few of my girlfriends thought it would be fun to go back and visit our old stomping grounds in Bloomington-Normal, IL one night and see the Chicago Bears game at Soldier Field the next day. Saturday night was a blast (although I really didn’t think I looked that young in college!). So much so that frankly Sunday tailgating was a bit difficult. Never mind the fact that a carrot was thrown directly at my eye during a food fight. I was convinced it was a football and my dramatic side took over. My friends still laugh over this one,
The 20s
Lucky me, I know a guy who knows a guy…or a few. It’s great to know someone with friends in the MLB and the NFL! A few years back, that friend scored my friends and me great Chicago Bears tickets when Brendan Ayanbadejo was on special teams. We were able to sit in his seats and when the rain started grab some pop and snacks in the player’s lounge (and see all the lovely players’ wives!) I can’t wait for an even greater opportunity when Lisa and I go to Ladies Night!
And so, here I am today. As you’ll see, I’ve had many distractions in my journey to ace the game, but I’m proud to say I’ve graduated from my football firsts and am forging ahead!
