Superfan. . . . That's Me

Well, here we are. The morning after the Superbowl. Let me take some time out from my usual style of blog writing to devote an entire entry to this exceptional day. I have loved the Packers my whole life. I have rarely missed a game since 8th grade. My dad and I watched together for years, even when some fans wore paper bags over their heads to the games in the mid 80's. I would devise scenarios in my head that went something like this. . . .. "Well if they score now and then recover an onside kick, they could score again before the two minute warning," and so on and so on.

I've had many favorite players over these years, Majik, Robert Brooks, Reggie White. None was more beloved to me than the legend that was Brett Favre. I defended him almost to the bitter end, but when things got really bitter, I had to let go. He became a disappointment and let me down big time. I could handle the ego trip, the manipulation, even the multiple false retirements, but the way he fell apart over this past season has revealed more about him than I would ever be able or willing to defend.

It was time for a new legacy. Up until this season, I questioned Rodger's toughness and hated Clay's wet hair. We all watched as our starters fell, one by one, until much of the team was pushing ahead with names unknown to the casual fan. Guys who were not supposed to start, who may never have played, scored touchdowns on both sides of the ball. This gutsy team started the month of December with doubts in its mind, but they came out winners week after week with memorable plays like game saving interceptions by Williams and unforgettable touchdown dances like Raji's.

On Friday night I saw a show about Aaron Rodgers. It was him with an interviewer in a casual setting. He played guitar on the beach and talked about his life outside of football. He is a really cool guy, one I doubt will ever display grandiosity the way his predecessor did. On the field, he has proven toughness that I will never question again. He's held this team together with guts, intelligence, confidence, and one hell of an accurate arm.

So while I usually write about the challenges we face in our own efforts to improve our fitness and lives, let's use this week to instead be inspired by the team we love. Let's bask in the Superbowl win for a few more days. In a league filled with parity, the Packers have stood out as champions, a title they have earned and a title that is well deserved.

Have a great week!