So Much From One Sport

Watching sports on TV is in no way comparable to the drama of being at the event. The energy of the pre-game, the game itself and the half-time show are all apart of football. It is interesting to learn all of the ways football is an institution that reinforces the Protestant work ethic as well as patriotism and nationalism. That there is so much history, tradition, and lore surrounding a college football team is also intriguing as it solidifies the group. All those who are fans are the 'folk' with shared stories, songs, rituals and space. Viewing individuals who are apart of varying groups and sub-groups bring into question how the individuals view themselves. Does their identification as a 'buckeye' supersede other ethnic, racial or economic status identifications; or simply part of a national identification such as a "New Yorker?" It would seem from the article that "Buckeyes" view themselves primarily as such around game time; but once game time is over, they change their primary group.

As I read the article aloud as a nighttime story, I was told I "take all the fun out it." In my view it appeared football was popular as it is the only acceptable form of physical violence for men to engage in. Men in society are taught to live in a non-violent, non-confrontational manner. Any form of aggression is frowned upon. This removal of aggression is what makes male sports fans so determined over football. In this conversation with an avid football fan, I was told I had made a correct assessment; he then began to explain the game, the meaning of the gridiron, the coach as "general" and his assistant and special teams coaches as majors, sergeant's, and specialists. It seems the information from the article could be postulated in a number of ways. Sport as a means to pacify the masses, as a means to solidify national identity, to teach the morals of hard work and success, or to divert male aggression from war. Surely the military style of OSU's marching band lend great reminders to the historical efforts of the military, the fashion of old wars fought, its valiantly and honor. From the uniform to the brass laden songs, the fan is reminded of the love of God, of country, and of the military.