So, we, Europeans all heard the complaints about this game. It's very similar to the British Rugby, and the name is entirely wrong since most of the time these puffed up guys pick up the ball and run with it instead of kicking with their feet. But if you are fortunate enough (like me) and go to a real game with somebody who not only knows the game but patient enough to answer all your annoying questions during the game... then you are actually in for a real treat: an exciting game with lots of action!
To prepare for the game I read about the rules and traditions and background history. Some of that was interesting, even funny, but most of it needed visual explanation. Funny how things work out, I had the chance to meet John Gilliam who played center during the first ever Super Bowl. (see picture)Texas A & M is a former military school with mostly guy students so naturally the Cheerleader Squad comprises of sexy... well, men. Not that I was complaining! But to be accurate, they are called YELL leaders. Each team has their own yells and movements that every fan should know, but courtesy to new fans like me a day before the game they organized a yell practice. It happened at midnight under a bridge in Bossier City, Louisiana. Doug, being a true Aggie got me a proper hoody and made sure we show up before midnight. The temperature is around zero Celsius, you can see your own breath, but hundreds of dedicated fans come for the event. And it was really funny!
5 guys in T-shirts go on stage and crack jokes, make fun of the Georgia Bulldogs and go through the yells that we are to perform tomorrow. I wondered what B.T.H.O. means, but it didn't take long to find out. Suddenly all the people around me lift their right fist while crossing the other arm in front of their body, left arm also in a fist and I stand in awe; it's a RUDE sign to show. They couldn't care less and soon people started shouting "beat the hell out of Georgia". OK, mystery solved. :) And what's in it for the girls? - you ask. Well, when the lights go out at the end of the practice, the guys should kiss their date! :)The other fun activity that's connected to the game is the Marching of Bands. Each team has a strong supporting band of 200+ musicians. They all gathered in a stadium for a few hours of music. Cheer leaders showed up, too, in their cute little dresses to the delight of the guys. The whole event was great except the really annoying fact that I was not allowed to take in my camera. Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr! I had to use a cell phone so the pictures are not the best, nonetheless I tried my best to capture the feeling. :)
On the day of the game we looked at the temperature. It wasn't too bad, the sun was shining, no clouds in the sky, but it was cold. Even though I got used to the cold in Norway, I had to put on several layers of clothing.
American Football (???) has four 15 minutes segments, but due to the many stops usually the games last about 4 hours... go figure. The highway was packed, cars are stuck in all 4 lanes. It took us a while to get there, but once we came close another problem occurred: yep, parking. Finally we found a spot, gathered our stuff and were walking towards the stadium. Tailgating is another phenomenon that only happens in America. Fans open the back of the truck, they bring BBQ and beers and enjoy a fun afternoon with other friends before the game. Some take it real seriously (see picture).Once inside the stadium I get to see the whole field, all the markings, the bands practicing, fans on both sides getting excited and the good mood is contagious. I might not understand the game, but I am glad to be here and experience the whole package. My only problem is that when you watch it on TV they show you the lines where they have to run, while in real life I have to rely on Doug. Oh well... I am ready!
(Gig 'em is the sign of the Aggies)
(Gig 'em is the sign of the Aggies)
Since the Aggies used to be only military, I am not surprised, just fascinated when a B52 flies above us. Soon enough the call for stand up to the national anthem comes and for the first time I listen to the words. I knew the tunes, we all do, but it never touched me; just the opposite. I was often thrown off by their patriotism, hands on the heart praising the freedom of this great country. But for the first time I could look at it from their point of view! Very humbling experience... For the first time I could understand what it means, where their pride comes from and how it strengthens their nation.
The game started and suddenly everybody was on their feet. I was told that current students have to stand during the game to show support, but alumni people and guests can sit. Riiiight. It's hard to see if the people stand in front of you... 
Anyhow, the game kicked off (literally) and though they did have a lot of stops, the first quarter just flew by. The Aggies scored a touch down and I could take some cool pictures.
Halftime came and the bands started marching again. It was really impressive as they made all the different formations while playing on their instruments. Before they left the field you could see a huge T!
The third and fourth quarters were a bit disappointing, but nothing could ruin my enthusiasm. After the millionth question the people around us looked at me strange so I had to explain that this is indeed my very first time watching this game. As a result a man on my left was more than happy to give me his opinion - whether or not I asked. :)
After sunset the temperature dropped drastically and I cannot even imagine how the yell leaders survived the game in T-shirts... I was drinking hot chocolate and tried out the fritos pie (chips with melted cheese and chili). The Aggies' Mascot was not there so we had to settle with a small statue. :)Even though the Aggies lost this game, I had an amazing time. By the end I was somewhat familiar with the rules and could appreciate a good catch, a good block or a good run. The experience was wonderful and my only regret is that I cannot squeeze more into this post, but take it from a European when I say: this is indeed a great game! Touch down!
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