Sports have always been an important part of my family.
I grew up playing, and even after I stopped, I stayed hooked — following teams and being a fan.
For me, I’m Philly through and through — I love me some Eagles, Phillies, and Sixers.
Shout out to my Aunt Jodi — she is the reason I became an Eagles fan, probably to get back at my dad for teasing her when she was younger. He’s a Steelers fan, but when I was a kid, she would send me Eagles gear in the mail. And honestly, what kid wouldn’t fall in love with that logo and the green and black?
Being a fan is important. It’s not just about watching games or events. It’s about connection, growth, and life lessons!
Connection: Sharing fandom with family is one of the greatest things there is. I love getting a call from my dad: “Did you see what Bryce Harper did last night?” or “I can’t believe the Phillies!” Those conversations keep us together and give us a reason to call each other. I’ve also grown to root for Penn State football — my wife went there and is a huge fan, a passion passed down to her by her dad. Being able to share that fandom with them now makes it feel even more special. Shared fandom brings families closer together, or in my wife’s and my case, it has helped me feel more like part of her family.
Growth: At a stadium, a bar, or an event, even strangers become friends in the stands. You start conversations, share experiences, and suddenly, you’re part of something bigger than yourself. It doesn’t matter where you’re from or how much money you make — fans from all walks of life can connect over one thing: their team. I love being at the airport with an Eagles hat on and someone saying, “GO BIRDS!” It’s remarkable how sports, music, or other passions can unite people across diverse backgrounds, ages, and experiences. It would be awesome if we could do this in other aspects of life.
Life Lessons: Being a fan teaches you a lot about life. You aren’t always going to win, and how you handle those losses matters. The sun is going to come up the next day, so wipe it off, move on, and be ready for the next challenge. And when you do win, don’t get too high either — because, you guessed it, the sun is coming up again, and a new task or challenge is waiting. Fandom teaches patience, resilience, and the importance of staying loyal through both victories and defeats.
Being a fan is about enjoying the sport, the experience, and the connection — Don’t make it about gambling. In today’s world, it’s easy to get caught up in betting on every game, and it’s even easier to go down the rabbit hole. It can tear people apart and take the joy out of the game. You don’t need to risk money to be part of the excitement. Focus on the game, the team, and the memories — not the odds.
Don’t just be a fan of teams or players, be a fan of loved ones! Go to their events! It means the world to them just you being there. Shout out to my wife for attending my half-marathon and sitting there watching me run. That can’t be much fun, but she was there for me, and it means the world. I am her biggest fan, and if you ask me, she’s the best dentist in the world.
Have a great week and go be a fan and support someone!
“Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” ~ Philippians 3:13-14 (NIV)
