Football brings forth a wealth of emotions – excitement, joy, sadness, hope. It doesn’t matter if you are a player, coach, fan or owner… if you love football…you will be consumed by the game. Howard Cosell said, “The importance our society attaches to this sport is incredible. After all, is football a game or a religion?” What an interesting question Cosell poses. It probably has to do with the intensity of the enthusiast and the power the game has over the spectator. Many relationships have been created and ruined by the sheer magnitude of the immersion being a football fan embodies.
I was curious about the rising interest as the new football season begins and started poking around, asking questions. Some people love it, some hate it and others are indifferent. Personally, I never got into this sport but I’ve learned there is something to be said for the qualities football delivers. Lewis Grizzard noted, “The game of life is a lot like football. You have to tackle your problems, block your fears and score your points when you get the opportunity.” What do you think about that? Or maybe football is like life -- the way Vince Lombardi saw it. He said, “Football requires perseverance, self-denial, hard work, sacrifice, dedication and respect for authority.” Makes you stop and ponder… Victor Nunn of streetdirectory.com likens football to a good game of chess. “Strategy,” he writes, “enters into all elements of play, both offensive and defensive. The entire focus is to outguess the opponent. Each team has its own style of playing, often determined by the individual strengths of its players. Some emphasize a defensive strategy while others accentuate the offense.” Oftentimes, it’s anyone’s game.
Tracy Wolfson, CBS Sports Reporter
“Why do I love this game? How can you not? From my days at the University of Michigan to my sideline treks throughout the SEC, I’ve seen some of the best college football in the country. What has stood out throughout my years of covering this game has been the passion surrounding it.
It’s different everywhere which is what makes this game so unique. The traditions, the tailgating, the stadiums, the history, the rivalries. It never gets old. I can cover 5 straight Iron Bowls and each one would be special in its own way. I know how fortunate I am to be able to be a part of this game week in and week out. I wouldn’t change it for anything!”
Hugh Freeze, Arkansas State Head Football Coach
“Man, I love it because of the relationships that are built and the opportunity to impact the young men that you coach. The competitive spirit in all of us is also a part of it when you are on the field and in practice or games competing. Ultimately, hope it always comes down to the relationships that you build and knowing that you have a chance to impact their lives. I think that’s my calling life right now and that’s why I enjoy it.”
I jumped on Facebook and inquired about the love of the game and what makes football so much fun. Nancy Ash replied by writing, “30-plus years as a Wash Redskins fan...I married into a family of ´skins freaks! LOL ~ Like the Olympics...it´s the spirit of sport, talent, focus, courage, following Soul´s purpose, the dream to be the best one can be - even if it´s football. The excitement, cheer, friends gathered around my coffee table in Love. That´s what I like about football.
Andy Edwards of IllegalShift.com captures the essence of sports enthusiasts. “Friday nights at your local high school, Saturdays yelling at the TV for your Alma Mater, Sundays glued to the Internet for fantasy scores whilst cheering like a madman for your team; this is what football is all about. It is our new pastime. But why? Why do we love the sport so much? What about it generates these emotions and drives us to spend hard-earned money to enjoy it or, if you’re like me, stress so much about it?” Edwards set out to get answers to these questions from all types: fans, coaches, players, journalists and found some interesting, results. Football doesn’t just deliver emotion; it also creates memories and builds lasting relationships. That’s pretty powerful stuff, so go ahead and root for your team, scream, cheer, cry, dream, and let’s all wish Joe Philbin, the new head coach of the Miami Dolphins, a winning 2012- 2013 season.