Ever since I was young, I have loved watching sports. I was surrounded by boys growing up and it was an integral part of my childhood. They helped shape me into the woman that I am today. I remember playing soccer all throughout elementary school, playing tennis with my mom, swimming with my brothers, playing field hockey and doing dance all throughout my youth. I still love playing sports because it makes me feel strong and confident.

My parents never told me that I had to dress a certain way or do feminine things when I was growing up. I was always encouraged to like, what I like, and do what I felt made me happy. The moments, growing up, when I would be the most happy were when I was watching my siblings compete in their sports or on Sundays, watching football with my dad.

I cannot even explain to you how upset I get when people question my validity as a sports fan. I am not a sports fan to impress anyone else. I am a sports fan because it helps me bond with my family and makes me feel a part of something bigger than myself. I am a woman and I LOVE sports. For all of you ignorant sexist jerks out there who still question a huge chunk of the population, you are missing out on a group of women that will actually understand what you are talking about for once when it comes to sports.

Here are 10 things not to say to a female sports fan:

1) "Is that the team your boyfriend likes?"

UM, excuse me sir? I actually am a fan of this team because of the number one man in my life, my dad.

2) "Are you trying to impress a guy?"

90% of the time, no, I am not trying to impress a guy. I actually love my teams just as much as any other guy. Quiz me, I dare you.

3) "What did you thing of ________'s performance?"

Yes I did watch the game. Do I care about _________'s insignificant performance...no.

4) "Who is your favorite player?

Is any answer going to be right? Do you have your whole favorite team memorized? Mind you, I am aware that once I answer this question, a snarky comment is soon to follow.

5) "Your favorite player is the quarterback? Well everyone knows him."

Who cares if everyone knows him? I admire players based upon their attitudes on and off the field, not based upon how well they are known by the media.

6) "Are you sure you want to join our fantasy team?"

Yes, I am sure. Your doubt in me, actually makes me want to beat you more.

7) "Do you know what's happening?"

Yes sir. I know what is happening. I would not have wanted to go to this game if I did not know what was going to be occurring. If I have a question, I'll ask.

8) "You shouldn't shout like that, it's not ladylike."

Excuse me sir, that's called passion. I am passionate about my team and THAT is why I am yelling like a man.

9) "Is that a women's jersey?"

No it's a unisex jersey. It is a unisex jersey because both sexes can wear it. Me wearing a jersey with a plunging neckline does not make me feel comfortable nor does it make me feel like more of a fan.

10) "You know a lot...for a girl."

No. No. No. I know a lot about my favorite sports because I have spent countless hours watching games with my family and friends, I have looked up information on players and because I want to know a lot for myself and no one else.

Female sports fans know just as much as male sports fans do. They care about their teams just the same. We cry together when we lose and cheer together when we win. Just because we are a different sex, doesn't mean that we have different reasons for following teams. We love being a fan and that is all that should matter.