Part of being a sports fan is coming in contact with fans of our rival teams. While we might try to be civil, there’s always a bit of hostility. Growing up in Pennsylvania, I was always expected to like the Eagles or the Steelers… but never would that happen. I’m a Dallas Cowboys fan and I have no problem saying that.
Now, being a Cowboys fan is exhilarating, stressful and at times frightening. But being a Cowboys fan (especially in Eagles territory) is a roller coaster ride that is so exciting. It doesn’t keep me from supporting my team through every win, loss, 8-8 season, 4-12 and really amazing season. I will proudly don my blue and silver any day of the week.
Now, Eagles fans are a special breed (believe me I know and I’m friends with a bunch) and I won’t bash the team too hard. They let their fans down enough on their own. They tend to only think that the Eagles exist and frown upon anyone not a fan of their team. (Although, that’s not the case with them all because my friends are pretty rad!)
So being out of my “fan zone” in the heart of the territory of my rival team, I hear it all literally.
“Your team sucks”
Oh really? This is actually my favorite. See, I love my team when we win, lose or play like shit. Sometimes they frustrate me but they’re my team and I love them.
“You shouldn’t wear your jersey here”
Oh, shouldn’t I? Does my Cowboys jersey offend you? Too bad, proceed with your day because that comment is irrelevant. I’ll still wear my blue and silver, proudly. Every. Single. Week.
“We can’t be friends if you like the Cowboys”
Fantastic. There’s the door. Want me to hold it open for you?
“This is our house go back to your area”
The great thing about sports—you can be a fan literally anywhere. But yes, I’d much rather be sitting in sunny Texas watching the Cowboys play in the heart of their city. That would be great. But no, it’s not going to happen.
“Tony Homo Sucks”
I lied. This one might be my absolute favorite. Why? Well, it’s just hilarious how you think this is offensive. Like, no he really doesn’t suck. He’s an elite quarterback and does outstanding when he’s on. He’s injury prone, I’ll give you that. But at his age, to be able to throw the ball like he does I’d say that’s pretty impressive. He might not have a ring. He might not have the best post season record. But Tony Romo leads that team and is a hell of a player. Hop off.
“You’re a Cowboys fan. Omg, I thought I was alone. We must be friends”
Thank goodness I found you. I thought I was alone and us Cowboys fans need to stick together. Someone needs to be there for me when I get excited and frustrated each week. After all, it’s blue and silver that runs through my veins.
Lastly, the coveted question: "Who do you have in this NFC matchup between Giants and Eagles, Redskins and Eagles?"
Always the other team. I mean, it’s not that I like the Giants or the Redskins. It’s just that I hate the Eagles that much.
