The University of Oklahoma is very well known throughout the United States. Whether it's our world-renowned gymnastics team or our beautiful campus, many people know about OU. However, I would argue that when a majority of people hear the words OU Sooners they think of football.
So far, this season has been rough. The last time the Sooners started a season with a 1-2 win/loss was in 2005. After starting off the season with a loss against the Houston Cougars in Houston, and a loss to the Ohio State Buckeyes this past Saturday at Owen Field, the Sooners have a long way to go this season.
Despite all of this, Sooners (fans, students and alumni alike) put up their hand with their index finger pointing up as if to say we're number one.
Many opposing team fans don't understand why we do what we do. "You're not number one," they'll say tauntingly. The Sooners are not number one this year, but there are more reasons as to why we proudly hold our one's up.
We put our one's up because "There's only one Oklahoma." As long as I can remember, the videos played before the team runs out always end with a Sooner legend saying those four words. And when those words are said, the 85,000+ fans in Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium erupt in a roar.
I believe that is a common reason why Sooner fans put their ones up. I have my own reason that may just be mine, but I would be surprised if I am the only one.
I put my one up because, to me, it is a symbol of unity. When we put our ones up, I feel like a part of something bigger than myself. I know I belong to the one family.
I put my one up because I relentlessly support the Sooners. Until that whistle is blown, everything I say and do is to support my team. Whether I am playing "Boomer Sooner" for the 50th time or screaming "Shake-N-Bake," the Sooners have unwavering support.
I put my one up because I am proud of my team and university. Although the outcome hasn't been what we wanted, I am proud to call myself a Sooner.
All-in-all, when the last whistle blows at the following games this season, regardless of a win or loss, I will be holding up my one. Boomer Sooner!
