Hello, from the land of Hurricane Nate. Not even a real name like Nathan or Nathaniel. He uses his nickname and expects us to take him seriously. Its early evening here on Saturday with the worst expected early tomorrow morning, so I’d better watch what I say. Churches are all closed tomorrow in our part of Alabama, which of course, is a clear sign of the end of times around here. Better safe than sorry, but I’m hoping that by Sunday afternoon, we’ll see sunny skies again.
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Here’s this week’s story from the paper. As usual, the anonymity of the on-line comment section drew some irritated readers who weren’t happy I questioned the future of football, but one of the very first commenters brought tears to my eyes as he described the agony their son has endured from head injuries. I also received very nice and objective emails from readers who are passionate about this issue.
So here it is, and hope you are having beautiful weather wherever you are!
The future of college football
Our love of college football knows no bounds in the Southeast, and although I enjoy the season as much as the rest of you, I’ve started wondering if our Saturday afternoon autumn ritual will last much longer, as we know it.
Of course, the current political tug-of-war by the NFL players is on our minds now, but so far, it hasn’t impacted the college game much. With good guidance, college players should be able to voice any political or social concerns in a constructive way, like encouraging children in their local schools or volunteering for causes dear to their hearts. College football fans in the South have a strong voice for patriotism and come to stadiums to see touchdowns, not lectures.
Social issues aside, the most threatening reason the face of college football may be changing is because of the safety concerns. Sure, football has always been a tough game, and I remember my high school science teacher warning us that only the boys who were shaving full beards should be allowed to play tackle football. His reasoning was that growing bones would be damaged from the severe hits on the field. With the recent additional information regarding severe brain injuries, parents are reconsidering their son’s participation and youth football enrollment is at an all-time low. Suddenly, a knee injury from soccer doesn’t seem so bad next to a brain injury from football.
Another blow to the gridiron is the increasing cost of attending a college game. For many fans, the experience of traveling to the . . . please click HERE to read the rest of the story at AL.com
Leslie Anne, Jenna has the right idea a “Narional Valium”! I have been an Alabama football fan for as long as I can remember, I watch every Saturday. I don’t go so often anymore, because my family room viewing is much easier! The injuries are heartbreaking! You stirred up some AL.com readers! Loved your responses!
Football injuries are serious stuff, I do want to see more precaution to protect the players. The thing that really worries me right now is the talk of paying college players…I think that would forever change the entire scenario, the campus life, tailgating, even the college experience for everyone. Can you imagine how expensive games would be if the players were paid???
It makes me crazy how everything is politicized and monetized now, and people are vehemently reacting to everything. I think we need a national valium! I am sick to death of people screaming and ranting about everything, often things they know nothing about, instead of appreciating how lucky they are! Ok, I feel better now, 🙂 thanks Leslie Anne! So glad Nate was so kind to us. I wasn’t happy when I saw Jim Cantore in OB!
“National Valium.” — You win the “make me laugh” contest today! Great points, and yes, I’m glad you were trouble-free in Orange Beach!
Hope all is well in Fairhope from Nate.
I will agree with you that ticket prices are out of control. We are still paying it, but I am really questioning it more and more. We were able to take our family of four to about two games a year from the time they were little right on up. The last few years we have said it over and over there would be no way we could have done that if it was with these ticket prices. I know it is capitalism and the times, but I miss the simpler days. I sound so old. I also don’t really like all the newer stuff. I am not a big fan of our huge new video board. I am probably the only Auburn girl who will admit that. I think it is a distraction. Of course, I crank my head around to watch it.
One more thing I have to admit…when Paul Allen was in high school, a student his age lost his life due to a hit that should not have been a big deal. It was a fluke, but from that moment forward a little was taken out of my love for the game. I was so glad when he graduated and the end of his football games were over.
All very good points and I totally agree. I have friends in Tallahassee and even though they don’t have to pay to travel, the actual tickets were too costly for a family of teacher parents. Too bad because they are huge FSU fans!