Bowl Season Blues

I love college football.  I think it’s because I went to school at Texas A&M and it’s hard not to fall in love with the spirit and rich tradition there.  I’ll watch pro football as well.  I’ll root for the Houston Texans but it’s not the same as the Aggies.

I have noticed over the last couple of years that my passion for Aggie football has mellowed or at least matured.  I used to get my stomach all tied up into knots when I watched the Aggies.  My wife touched my arm one time during a game and she was shocked how hot my skin was to the touch.  That doesn’t happen so much anymore.

I’m not sure why I’m not as physically affected by Aggie football any longer.  It could be their lack of success has taken it’s toll on me.  I remember thinking at times this year, “so this must be what it feels like to be a Baylor fan.”

I’d like to think that my more balanced attitude is more maturity than just a sport’s fan beat-down from following an under achieving team.  I’d like to think that I may actually be living what I preach to my oldest son.

My son has the same passion for Aggie sports as I do.  When the Aggies lose he’ll storm out of the house, mad and upset.  Did I mention he’s ten?

A couple of years ago, the Ags lost to Texas Tech on a last second touchdown pass.  My son stormed out of the house so I followed him and we had life lesson discussion about football and what really matters in life.

It’s crazy that sport’s fans, like myself, can have so much passion about other men or women playing games.  Games that don’t determine life or death.  Just games.

What I tried to explain to my son was that Aggie football can be a lot of fun, if you don’t let it consume you.  We have to learn to keep our priorities, God, family, and the needs of other people first.  Sports can be a great mental distraction for a little relaxation.  However, when your team’s performance overly affects you emotionally or even physically, then you need to reassess your values.

So as we enter bowl season and my team is no where to be found, I am still excited. It’s the Christmas season and I have extra time with my family.  I hope my lack of Bowl Season Blues is because I’ve grown up; not just a result of giving up.