Over the years, I have written several articles which outlined my opinion at the time of various Cowboys players as well as the team in general. Some of those articles were of a positive nature. Some weren't so positive. I'm one of those that calls a spade a spade and sometimes that doesn't go over well with some readers.
Some just ignore me. Some fire back a response which includes facts they believe prove my opinions are wrong. Others accuse me of being a hater, a Philly lover, a Redskins lover or other derogatory names. Some accuse me of not being a "true fan". This article is for that last group.
Being a wordsmith, my first reaction was to overwhelm them with an immediate response, but as I thought about it, I began to question whether I was indeed a "true fan". So I decided to find the definition of a "true fan". To say this was very enlightening doesn't do it justice.
My first discovery was that there is no centralized place on the internet that explains, leaving no chance for error, what a "true fan" is. Once this article is published, I suppose it will become the definitive resource that will answer once and for all the question about what is a "true fan".
First, I suppose I should explain what it was that caused me to do the research and eventually write this article. I had posted an article at cowboys central.com and received this response from SlickReBorn:
http://www.cowboyscentral.com/bb/showthread.php?t=23005&page=2
"Honestly those fans that only buy the merchandise and tickets when the Cowboys are winning aren't true fans anyways so who cares what they think? I remember when this team went 1-15. I wasn't ashamed to be a Cowboys fan then, and I aint now."
Now, for the record, I didn't feel like he was accusing me of not being a true fan. He had no data to base a claim I wasn't a true fan on anyway. He doesn't know if I have ever bought any tickets or merchandise ever in my life or if I own a museum of Cowboys merchandise I've purchased with the walls wallpapered with ticket stubs.
No, his statement just got me to thinking about what was required to be considered a "true fan". So, with no further adieu, let's learn exactly what a true fan is:
Actions & Practices
http://www.cleveland.com/browns/index.ssf/2008/09/browns_welcome_test_against_co.html
“Happy NFL Opening weekend to you all, Browns win a shoot-out 34-31 over the Boys. Cowboy corners can't cover the Browns Wr's and a Dawson FG is the difference. DA continues to silence the BQ lovefest by throwing for 300 plus and 3 scores. See the true fans in the parking lot bright and early.
For the rest of you who don't believe the bandwagon is full and we aren't accepting new passengers.”
This was a blog response from someone predicting the Browns would beat the Cowboys in the first game of the 2008 season.
Since he was dead wrong on that, I don’t know how much credence to put in his statement that true fans would be in the parking lot bright and early. Others have intimated that true fans do get to the stadium early, though, so I included this one.
Actions & Practices
http://www.ultimateredskins.com/our-take-on-the-schedule/
“I believe that true fans of each team hate each other far more than any of the players hate anyone in the League.”
This is the opinion of some Redskins fan and isn’t a statement of known fact, so take it with a grain of salt. On the other hand, he’s a Redskins fan and we hate him. What could he know about it in the first place?
Actions & Practices
http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9F02E0DB1130F930A15752C0A9659C8B63&partner=rssnyt&emc=rss
“In his 1994 novel ''Fever Pitch,'' Nick Hornby outlined the edifying effects of the male sports obsession. True fans, he wrote, ''become repressed, they fail in their relationships with women, their conversation is trivial and boorish, they find themselves unable to express their emotional needs, they cannot relate to their children, and they die alone and miserable. But, you know, what the hell?"”
Finally, someone who truly has a grasp on the subject!
Actions & Practices
http://blog.denverbroncos.com/jsaccomano/2007/10/17/rockies-parallel-1977-broncos/
“What is your definition of a fan? You bad mouth people who state their displeasure with the production of their team? In my opinion - your not a true fan for accepting this garbage that has been thrown on the field lately. A bad fan - or “bandwagon” fan - is someone who doesn’t even bother to boo or voice their displeasure when their team underachieves on a level that is embarrassing. They just get up and leave - and don’t come back until the team is good again. True fans voice their displeasure with mediocrity - and they show up the next week to watch them again. And if they play the way the Broncos have been lately - they boo even louder. But we always come back the next week.”
As you can see, true fans can voice their displeasure with an underachieving team. But they remain loyal.
Age & Longevity As A Fan
http://blog.dallascowboys.com/forums/t/35173.aspx
“I have been a 4 seat season ticket holder for 14 years. Now he wants me to pay $64,000 for the seat license plus the annual ticket price of $12,600 and parking about another $1,000.
FORGET IT!! Jones is successfully getting rid of the hard-working middle class die-hard fans to fill his own pockets. These are the people that have supported him for the last 15 years and he is pricing us out of the new stadium. Their goes our tailgating days.
Glad you're thinking of your TRUE fans Jerry. The only ones that can afford these prices are the corporate and the rich. Just people who want to attend games just for the notoriety, not because they are TRUE FANS.
Thanks Jerry, for alienating your true fans. We'll now be watching on TV. I really despise you now,Jerry Jones.”
True fans can and do get angry at Jerry Jones. (True Cowboys fans do, anyway.)
Age & Longevity As A Fan
http://www.bearsgab.com/2008/07/08/dead-end-ahead-road-to-super-bowl-blocked-by-lack-of-offense/
“So called fans like you are a joke! The only dead end is the blood flowing to your brain! It is fair weather fans like you we can do without! With so called fans like you,who needs enemies!
The sky is always falling in your mind.The glass is always half empty.Why do you even bother,if everything is so bad? Your a joke, that does not understand the game of football or the Financial end of it.Thank god you are not making the decisions!
I have been a die hard bear fan for 38 years.You have no clue what a true fan is all about.True fans support their teams.True fans dont talk smack about their team or back stab their players.True fans are there win or lose.You are probably too young to understand what a true fan is.You only support when the going is good.No team stays on top all the time,get a clue.
TRUE BEAR FANS ARE PROUD & BLEED BLUE!! You probably are too young to even know what bleeding blue is! The true die hard Bear fans know what i am talking about. We need fans who support our team,not dig for negativities constantly! You should join the packers or Cowboys,if you dont like what the bears bring on sundays.
Your opinions are idiotic,& us true fans dont care.Send your opinions to Mariotti,Die hard bear fans dont care to hear it.True fans start out each year with hope,not despair.The games havent even been played yet!! If you dont enjoy being a fan,your not a fan. Be a Fan or be Gone !!!! GO BEARS!!! YOUR TRUE FANS BELIEVE,& WILL ALWAYS BE THERE FOR YOU!!”
I debated on adding this to my article, but there’s just so much in there that helps to show us what a “true fan” is. It’s difficult to ascertain exactly what he’s talking about, between the misspellings/poor grammar (which is apparently approved for true fan usage) and the absolute beligerence coming from the writer.
I believe he’s upset because someone said something negative about the Chicago Bears and the writer took exceptional offense to anyone saying something bad about the Bears.
Apparently, it doesn’t matter whether what was said negatively is the truth or not, only that it was said.
Age & Longevity As A Fan
http://12thmanrising.com/2008/07/20/keeping-it-real/
“This brings me to the purpose of this piece. I want to finally lay down the law on what constitutes a true fan. Nothing pisses me off more than meeting someone who tells me that they are Cowboy fan, “Because I’ve always just liked them.” What the hell is that all about? What they mean to say is that, “During the 90’s when they were really good, I decided to hitch my wagon to a winner and it felt so good rooting for all of those Super Bowls that I decided to stick around.”
I know, total crap right? As we all know, it was easy rooting for the Cowboys when they were running rough shot through the league. Who didn’t enjoy the show when the triplets dominated the NFC? But “fans” like this are missing the essence of being a fan.
Bottom line, the best part of being a fan is being able to celebrate when success finally shines upon your squad. When you were in the stands watching that 2-14 season, that Super Bowl victory is so much sweeter (I image…remember this is a Seahawks blog.)
When you jump from team to team because it just happens to be their turn in the winners circle defeats the entire purpose of being a fan. It isn’t rocket science to determine which team you should root for.
As a matter of fact it can be determined this easily. Either your ass lives in the state, has lived in the state, or one of your immediate relatives are from the state. Case closed”
This is another site that wasn’t specifically a Cowboys site, but they discuss the Cowboys in particular and fanhood. I personally object to him laying the law down regarding what a true fan is without proving he has the authority to do so. This tirade is his opinion and nothing more, apparently.
He also discusses longevity as a fan and claims one cannot be a true fan if one hasn’t paid one’s dues by supporting the team through the hard times. Only supporting a team when they become winners makes you a “fairweather fan”, which is another whole study and goes beyond the scope of this article.
Age & Longevity As A Fan
http://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Dallas-Cowboys-Comforter-and-Sheet-Set-Twin/2659963/product.html
“True fans start young and you can support them with this FANtastic comforter set Ideal for the Cowboys fan in your life, the set includes comforter, flat sheet, fitted sheet and two pillowcases (one in twin set)”
A mere $49.99, however those desiring to support the "true fan" in their life will have to wait because they are out of stock.
Clothing & Dress
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/35952-nfl-fans-support-your-team
“A fan of a less than successful team doesn't necessarily hate on the teams that win, but it doesn't mean that we necessarily like them either. I am an Eagles fan living in Atlanta, which is ok since there are very few real Falcon's fans.
I just wanted to comment that I am indeed a Cowboys hater, primarily because they are division rivals. Obviously the Eagles-Cowboys rivalry has been a big part of the lives of true fans of either of these teams.
What I find the most irritating are the "fans" that claim loyalty to a team that
A) Have no connection to the team or city (primarily bandwagoners)
B) "Fans" that can't name any player on the offensive or defensive line and doesn't even know who the coaches are
C) "Fans" that sport the "in" jersey but yet know nothing about the player they have on their back.
Of course, some could make the arguement that an exception could be made in certain situations- for example, my girlfriend is in possession of my Brian Westbrook jersey however knows only that he is #36, a running back, and had the most yards from scrimmage in the league last year (because I've drilled it into her). In this situation, I am ok with the jersey-wearer not being informed however these girls (or guys in some rare instances) should not call themselves fans until they have demonstrated knowledge of the game, the position of the player and the name of his back-up, the college the player attended, what round they went in the draft (or from what team they were aquired from in free agency), and the ability to pick a buffalo wing clean.”
So, regular fans must know these things before they can call themselves a “fan”.Some sort of “connection” to the city the team is from is also apparently necessary. Apparently, some knowledge of the coaches is necessary. Presumably, a “true fan” would have a much deeper knowledge of the game and the players than an ordinary fan..
Clothing & Dress
http://search.neckties.com/search.aspx?Action=11&Grid=0&SH=QT1EYWxsYXMgQ293Ym95cyB_Qj1EYWxsYXMgQ293Ym95cyB_RD0xMn5JPVByaWNlfks9NH5MPTF_TT0xfg&SI=95884560-f898-45d2-8927-f417ac607715
“NFL Dallas Cowboys Grid black polyester ties.
There are the fair weather fans and then there are the true fans. Those diehard fans that journey out to New Cowboys Stadium every Sunday, rain or shine. This necktie is for the diehards. Featured within is a detailed patter of Dallas Cowboys logos set atop a rich woven black background. With silks and design as fine and sharp as Cowboys fans, this necktie is a necessity for any who call themselves a true Cowboys fan. Don't be caught without it come game day!”
True fans journey out to New Cowboys Stadium every Sunday, regardless of weather and it is necessary that they wear this necktie.
Clothing & Dress
http://www.amiannoying.com/(S(craik155hhs4vl45mnpr1355))/view.aspx?id=9009&collection=1443
True fans often dress or paint themselves in the team colors of Royal Blue and Metallic Silver.
I looked at Cowboys jerseys this evening. They were on sale for $69.99.
Clothing & Dress
http://www.stylefeeder.com/i/9nm5qh14/Dallas-Cowboys-Star-Toe-Ring-Solid-Sterling-Silver
“Show Your Team Spirit with this Officially Licensed high quality product. Logo Art manufactures the broadest and most elegant collection of collegiate and sports licensed jewelry products. Constructed using metal molds and injected plastic patterns to give repeatable and highly detailed castings. Then, each piece is hand filed and polished to give it a handsome finish. A must have for all true Fans. Most products are available in 14k & 10k gold and sterling silver.”
OK, for those that didn’t click on the link above, this is a Dallas Cowboys Toe Ring. “A must have for all true Fans.” Don’t blame me. I didn’t write it.
Geography
http://12thmanrising.com/2008/07/20/keeping-it-real/
“This brings me to the purpose of this piece. I want to finally lay down the law on what constitutes a true fan. Nothing pisses me off more than meeting someone who tells me that they are Cowboy fan, “Because I’ve always just liked them.” What the hell is that all about?
What they mean to say is that, “During the 90’s when they were really good, I decided to hitch my wagon to a winner and it felt so good rooting for all of those Super Bowls that I decided to stick around.”
I know, total crap right? As we all know, it was easy rooting for the Cowboys when they were running rough shot through the league. Who didn’t enjoy the show when the triplets dominated the NFC? But “fans” like this are missing the essence of being a fan.
Bottom line, the best part of being a fan is being able to celebrate when success finally shines upon your squad. When you were in the stands watching that 2-14 season, that Super Bowl victory is so much sweeter (I image…remember this is a Seahawks blog.)
When you jump from team to team because it just happens to be their turn in the winners circle defeats the entire purpose of being a fan.
It isn’t rocket science to determine which team you should root for. As a matter of fact it can be determined this easily. Either your ass lives in the state, has lived in the state, or one of your immediate relatives are from the state. Case closed”
This is another site that wasn’t specifically a Cowboys site, but they discuss the Cowboys in particular and fanhood. I personally object to him laying the law down regarding what a true fan is without proving he has the authority to do so. This tirade is his opinion, apparently.
I left this part in my article because he does show that geography has a large part to your qualifications as a true fan. Apparently, to be a true fan, one must live in the state currently, must have lived in the state in the past or have immediate relatives that are from the state, in order for you to qualify to be a fan of a particular team.
If you have never lived in Texas, do not live in Texas currently, and do not have immediate family from Texas, you do not qualify as a true fan. As he said “Case closed”.
Geography
http://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/BEST_FANS_IN_FOOTBALLwho_tops_the_list_you_ask/301618
“This fan base, which was really a bunch of band wagon jumpers during the Aikman-Irvin-Emmitt dynasty, apparently has transformed into die-hards. With fans in every city, "America's Team" is wildly popular. Simpletons flock to the star and seem to be enamored with it. Of course, the rules about cheering for a team you have no connection with is still a violation.”
A violation of what? I presume he’s referring to this generally held belief that a fan must have a “connection” to the team they claim to be a fan of or they’re violating some cosmic standard rule of applied physics.
Knowledge
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/35952-nfl-fans-support-your-team
“A fan of a less than successful team doesn't necessarily hate on the teams that win, but it doesn't mean that we necessarily like them either. I am an Eagles fan living in Atlanta, which is ok since there are very few real Falcon's fans.
I just wanted to comment that I am indeed a Cowboys hater, primarily because they are division rivals. Obviously the Eagles-Cowboys rivalry has been a big part of the lives of true fans of either of these teams.
What I find the most irritating are the "fans" that claim loyalty to a team that
A) Have no connection to the team or city (primarily bandwagoners)
B) "Fans" that can't name any player on the offensive or defensive line and doesn't even know who the coaches are
C) "Fans" that sport the "in" jersey but yet know nothing about the player they have on their back. Of course, some could make the arguement that an exception could be made in certain situations- for example, my girlfriend is in possession of my Brian Westbrook jersey however knows only that he is #36, a running back, and had the most yards from scrimmage in the league last year (because I've drilled it into her).
In this situation, I am ok with the jersey-wearer not being informed however these girls (or guys in some rare instances) should not call themselves fans until they have demonstrated knowledge of the game, the position of the player and the name of his back-up, the college the player attended, what round they went in the draft (or from what team they were aquired from in free agency), and the ability to pick a buffalo wing clean.”
So, regular fans must know these things before they can call themselves a “fan”.Some sort of “connection” to the city the team is from is also apparently necessary. Apparently, some knowledge of the coaches is necessary. Presumably, a “true fan” would have a much deeper knowledge of the game and the players.
Loyalty
http://www.topix.com/forum/source/newsday/T4B2TP5S3LE9QEANG
“Dallas won both games os to say we'll win is kind of crazy I agree. But we do have a shot at this stage those other two games don't matter. The 91 before this don't. This is the biggest game in this rivalries history. Eli has taken a step back but the Giants running games is better than the Cowboys.
Eli also ranks in the top ten in most categories(sufficient)in an overall down year for qb's not named Brady,Favre and Romo or P.Manning.
All true fans and or pundints know the Cowboys secondary is suspect and that their running game isn't all its cracked up to be. Lets not pretend that the Giants don't have an excellent front seven(led the league in sacks), as well. Like I said we lost twice so its tough to be cocky, but I know we are a live underdog.”
I gave the Eagles and Redskins fans a presence in this article. I might as well let the Giants fans run their mouth, too. I would point out that this person puts “true fans” and “pundits” into the same classification. There must be a hidden meaning there somewhere.
Loyalty
http://www.sportsfilter.com/news/9144/most-popular-nfl-teams-order-cowboys
“I don't think steelerbroad meant that those teams are the only ones with "true fans". Of course other teams have true fans. I think she means that a large percentage of the fanbase in those cities are not fairweather fans. Those 3 teams will always be near the top of these type of polls.”
Other teams can have “true fans” also.
Loyalty
http://lonestarstruck.com/blog1/2008/03/pacman_to_the_cowboys_oh_no_sa.htm
“I love my Cowboys as all other true fans do.”
No comment is necessary to this.
Loyalty
http://www.bearsgab.com/2008/07/08/dead-end-ahead-road-to-super-bowl-blocked-by-lack-of-offense/
“So called fans like you are a joke! The only dead end is the blood flowing to your brain! It is fair weather fans like you we can do without! With so called fans like you,who needs enemies!
The sky is always falling in your mind. The glass is always half empty.Why do you even bother,if everything is so bad? Your a joke, that does not understand the game of football or the Financial end of it.Thank god you are not making the decisions!
I have been a die hard bear fan for 38 years.You have no clue what a true fan is all about.True fans support their teams.True fans dont talk smack about their team or back stab their players.True fans are there win or lose.You are probably too young to understand what a true fan is.You only support when the going is good.
No team stays on top all the time,get a clue.TRUE BEAR FANS ARE PROUD & BLEED BLUE!! You probably are too young to even know what bleeding blue is! The true die hard Bear fans know what i am talking about.
We need fans who support our team,not dig for negativities constantly! You should join the packers or Cowboys,if you dont like what the bears bring on sundays.Your opinions are idiotic,& us true fans dont care.
Send your opinions to Mariotti,Die hard bear fans dont care to hear it.True fans start out each year with hope,not despair.The games havent even been played yet!! If you dont enjoy being a fan,your not a fan. Be a Fan or be Gone !!!! GO BEARS!!! YOUR TRUE FANS BELIEVE,& WILL ALWAYS BE THERE FOR YOU!!”
I debated on adding this to my article, but there’s just so much in there that helps to show us what a “true fan” is. It’s difficult to ascertain exactly what he’s talking about, between the misspellings/poor grammar (which is apparently approved for true fan usage) and the absolute beligerence coming from the writer.
Apparently youths cannot be true fans either, nor could they have any knowledge about the team or its true fans.
Loyalty
http://www.igglesblog.com/iggles_blog/2008/09/a-must-win-game.html
“The team itself also seems raaaaaaather confident as well. (I covered this in detail a few weeks ago. I'm not nauseating myself by doing it again.) It's as if that whole organization, the local media ("Dallas Cowboys' greatest obstacles are history, high expectations"), its true fans, and all those wannabe front-runners across the nation believe Dallas' appearance in the NFC Championship Game is simply a matter of scheduling ("That third Sunday of January good for you?") rather that a goal to be achieved.”
I threw this in just because it’s an Eagles fan writing it. I wonder if he’s feeling any different after last Monday’s game.
Loyalty
http://www.amiannoying.com/(S(craik155hhs4vl45mnpr1355))/view.aspx?id=9009&collection=1443
"True fans bleed Blue and Silver."
If they do, they need medical attention, quickly.
Loyalty
http://www.amiannoying.com/(S(craik155hhs4vl45mnpr1355))/view.aspx?id=9009&collection=1443
"True fans have the audacity to claim that the hole in the roof of their stadium is there so that God could watch His team."
Apparently, Jerry Jones believes this also. He's putting in a new hole in the room (although this one can be closed) hoping God comes back after a dozen years of no playoff wins.
Loyalty
http://www.amiannoying.com/(S(craik155hhs4vl45mnpr1355))/view.aspx?id=9009&collection=1443
"True fans like to shout the phrase made famous by former head coach Jimmy Johnson, 'How 'bout them Cowboys!"
Everyone knows it's "dem Cowboys!", not "them Cowboys!".
Loyalty
http://www.amiannoying.com/(S(craik155hhs4vl45mnpr1355))/view.aspx?id=9009&collection=1443
"True fans love their mascot."
Personally, I miss Whistling Ray.
Loyalty
http://www.amiannoying.com/(S(craik155hhs4vl45mnpr1355))/view.aspx?id=9009&collection=1443
"True fans refer to the Cowboys as 'America's Team'."
Well, duhh!!!
Loyalty
http://www.totalcowboys.addr.com/nfceastrankings2000.htm
“True fans will follow the season and watch Emmitt Smith run his way into NFL history.”
Presumably, this only pertains to true fans who were around when Emmitt Smith was still playing for the Cowboys and they are no longer required to follow that season or watch Emmitt Smith run any longer.
Hopefully, today’s true fans are not required to watch Emmitt Smith run his mouth as an announcer. There is a constitutional right against cruel and inhuman punishment, afterall.
Loyalty
http://www.nydailynews.com/forums/thread.jspa?threadID=34846
“What a shame... we were so close to cutting Manning's dead weight last year and he was booed at home more than he was cheered and now the fairweather fans love him because of a hail mary. I guess it's just football fans these days, hardly any true fans who actually stick to their convictions even if the truth is right there to see.”
This not a Cowboys-specific posting, but it does show us that true fans actually stick to their convictions, even if the truth is slapping them in the face.
Loyalty
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20080411005801AA1Upuc
"When asked why you like the team you like, true fans will say: “ it's not the wins or losses that matter dont get me wrong its very important BUT its all about the team you have been loyal to forever no matter what the record be!!!”
Miscellaneous
http://www.amiannoying.com/(S(craik155hhs4vl45mnpr1355))/view.aspx?id=9009&collection=1443
"True fans are sometimes distracted by team cheerleaders who are as famous as the team."
Double Duhh!!!!!
Other Purchases
http://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Dallas-Cowboys-Comforter-and-Sheet-Set-Twin/2659963/product.html
“True fans start young and you can support them with this FANtastic comforter set Ideal for the Cowboys fan in your life, the set includes comforter, flat sheet, fitted sheet and two pillowcases (one in twin set)”
A mere $49.99, however those desiring to support the "true fan" in their life will have to wait because they are out of stock.
Other Purchases
http://www.american-flag.com/content/Car_Flags.htm
“Where and when the car flag became so trendy is debatable. Waving flags at sporting events goes back many years and is a part of the soccer culture in Europe and South America. But tailgating is the quintessential American way to party and proudly waving the standards of the New York Yankees, the Dallas Cowboys, Jeff Gordon's # 24 and the LSU Tigers is paramount to identifying yourself as a true fan.”
This is how you can identify yourself as a true fan. Stick a Dallas Cowboys car flag on your vehicle.
Loyalty
http://www.amiannoying.com/(S(craik155hhs4vl45mnpr1355))/view.aspx?id=9009&collection=1443
"True fans root for their team."
That's like saying "Colonel Sanders liked fried chicken!"
Spelling & Grammar
http://cowboysblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2008/05/observing-the-dallas-cowboys-otas.html
“Its guys that feel the need to correct a guy doing a fun gig for Cowboy fans that validates all the sheeottt I have fed "Cow-Girl" fans over the past 4 months - what effen losers!!! Why do you think that we have no access from either the players and/or the media? It's BC of a-holes that nit-pick!!!!!!! JC this is not rocket science it is football and I want to see inside of it as much as possible!!!!! But cocker-blockers like the "Proper English Grammar Guys", who will be obsolete down the road soon, keep effen it up! Congrats - we have no new info BC of you guys! Go away and let us true fans try to figure out the game with assistance from the people who in the future would not be afraid to give it w/out repercussions from the grammar police!!! Go back and read Chaucer and Yeats and Poe if you want the proper English and meter!”
True fans get somewhat upset when their grammar is corrected.
So, there you have it. Everything you need to know to determine whether you're a "true fan" or not. I found all this information right there on the internet, so we all know it must be true.
Now, to review the criteria one must meet to qualify as a "true fan, here's the list:
True fans do get to the stadium early.
True fans of each team hate each other far more than any of the players hate anyone in the League.
True fans become repressed, they fail in their relationships with women, their conversation is trivial and boorish, they find themselves unable to express their emotional needs, they cannot relate to their children, and they die alone and miserable.
True fans can voice their displeasure with an underachieving team. But they remain loyal.
True fans can and do get angry at Jerry Jones.
True fans don't care whether what was said negatively is the truth or not, only that it was said. And they don't like it.
True fans have paid their dues by supporting the team through the hard times.
True fans start young.
True fans have a "connection" with the geographic area where their team resides.
True fans journey out to New Cowboys Stadium every Sunday, regardless of weather and it is necessary that they wear this necktie.
True fans often dress or paint themselves in the team colors of Royal Blue and Metallic Silver.
True fans have and wear a Dallas Cowboys Toe Ring.
True fans must live in the state currently, must have lived in the state in the past or have immediate relatives that are from the state their favorite team resides in, in order for them to qualify to be a true fan of a particular team.
True fans may make misspellings and grammar mistakes at will and without repurcussion.
Youths cannot be true, nor could they have any knowledge about the team or its true fans.
True fans can lie without penalty about bleeding silver and blue.
True fans claim that the hole in the roof of their stadium is there so that God could watch His team.
True fans like to shout the phrase made famous by former head coach Jimmy Johnson, 'How 'bout them Cowboys!
True fans love their mascot.
True fans refer to the Cowboys as 'America's Team'.
True fans are confused about whether to watch Emmitt or not.
True fans actually stick to their convictions, even if the truth is slapping them in the face.
True fans are sometimes distracted by team cheerleaders who are as famous as the team.
True fans have a Dallas Cowboys flag on their vehicle.
True fans root for their team.
True fans get somewhat upset when their grammar is corrected.
Now, if I get in the mood at some point, I'll investigate what a "hater", a "real fan", a "bandwagoner" and a "so-called fan" is.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Look Guys. . . .
I guess I just have an active imagination, but I consider myself pretty good at getting mental images of various things and events. To set the stage for this one, I guess you need to read this.
OK, so now you know what she did. Here's what I think he (Tony Romo) did.
First of all, I envision him at his home. He's up early because he knows she's going to be on Good Morning America and he wants to see how she does. So he's diddling around his home, having breakfast, getting dressed, showering, etc. and not necessarily in that order. The television is on and finally she's on TV. There's a glitch when she's not able to hear herself because of something wrong with the sound system or the settings. At any rate, he hears her say "Go Cowboys". His head snaps towards the television. He knows she's in Philadelphia. Then he hears her say "That's next week! We're gonna kick your butts, too!"
Now, females don't quite understand the male/macho need to not be embarassed by your woman. Tony Romo is riding a wave of success in the NFL, a man's game. His team is mentioned daily right now as being the most probable team to represent the NFC in the Superbowl. Romo's the field general. He is the most macho of the macho. He's a good looking guy, making tons of money, and leading one of the hottest teams in the NFL. When Tony Romo speaks, everyone listens. To say that Tony Romo wouldn't have a problem finding a dinner date is a huge understatement. There are probably thousands, if not millions of females who would trade places with Jessica Simpson in a heartbeat. But he picked Jessica.
And now, she's opened up her mouth.
It's not like he can pretend it didn't happen. It was on Good Morning America. I think they record their viewership in bazillions or gozillions, I forget which.
So he can't hide from it. He remembers last year when she showed up for the Philly game wearing the pink shirt. And the Cowboys lost 10-6. The Jessica Curse was announced. Now she's told all Philly fans, plus the team, plus most of the civilized world that "We're gonna kick your butts, too!"
It's Tuesday, and there's no practice, so Tony decides that since it's 5 o'clock somewhere, he'll have a beer. He spends the rest of the day going about his business, but her words linger in his mind all day long.
Wednesday morning arrives and he gets up, does the breakfast/shaving/getting dressed/etc. thing again and heads to Valley Ranch. When he parks his car, he lingers for a few minutes, knowing the guys are going to be in there, knowing there's no way he's getting out of the locker room without someone saying something. It would be be a travesty of maleness if someone didn't bring it up. He knows it's coming. So he gathers up the courage and goes inside.
He walks in the locker room and notices that conversations cease, sees guys looking at each other. There's not many guys smiling or joking. What few are seem to stop as he walks to his locker.
Finally, the inevitable. . . . one of the guys says "Man, can't you keep that bitch quiet?"
Someone else says "they (the Eagles) probably have that sh** taped on their wall".
Tony can feel the heat of the red flush of embarassment creep up his neck and into his face.
Someone says "Man, you need to control her better than you're doing."
Now we're talking loss of manhood here. This is a male society, macho, manly. Men should not be dealing with the aftermath of some silly woman running her mouth. Tony knows they're right. He didn't control his woman.
Someone else says something, but Tony is so deep in thought the words don't register.
Finally, he turns to the crowd that has gathered and sees all eyes on him. He looks down at his shoes for a brief second and says "Look guys. . . it's just good pu**y." He looks at the crowd, lips somewhat pursed, shrugs his shoulders and turns back to his locker.
The guys look at each other. For a moment no one says anything. Then one guy shrugs his shoulders and kind of nods his head. More heads begin to nod. Someone says "OK, I can see that". The crowd breaks up and everyone goes about their business.
Tony sighs in relief. The embarassment is over. He explained the whole thing with four words. He's still a man. He's still the king of the Cowboys.
OK, so now you know what she did. Here's what I think he (Tony Romo) did.
First of all, I envision him at his home. He's up early because he knows she's going to be on Good Morning America and he wants to see how she does. So he's diddling around his home, having breakfast, getting dressed, showering, etc. and not necessarily in that order. The television is on and finally she's on TV. There's a glitch when she's not able to hear herself because of something wrong with the sound system or the settings. At any rate, he hears her say "Go Cowboys". His head snaps towards the television. He knows she's in Philadelphia. Then he hears her say "That's next week! We're gonna kick your butts, too!"
Now, females don't quite understand the male/macho need to not be embarassed by your woman. Tony Romo is riding a wave of success in the NFL, a man's game. His team is mentioned daily right now as being the most probable team to represent the NFC in the Superbowl. Romo's the field general. He is the most macho of the macho. He's a good looking guy, making tons of money, and leading one of the hottest teams in the NFL. When Tony Romo speaks, everyone listens. To say that Tony Romo wouldn't have a problem finding a dinner date is a huge understatement. There are probably thousands, if not millions of females who would trade places with Jessica Simpson in a heartbeat. But he picked Jessica.
And now, she's opened up her mouth.
It's not like he can pretend it didn't happen. It was on Good Morning America. I think they record their viewership in bazillions or gozillions, I forget which.
So he can't hide from it. He remembers last year when she showed up for the Philly game wearing the pink shirt. And the Cowboys lost 10-6. The Jessica Curse was announced. Now she's told all Philly fans, plus the team, plus most of the civilized world that "We're gonna kick your butts, too!"
It's Tuesday, and there's no practice, so Tony decides that since it's 5 o'clock somewhere, he'll have a beer. He spends the rest of the day going about his business, but her words linger in his mind all day long.
Wednesday morning arrives and he gets up, does the breakfast/shaving/getting dressed/etc. thing again and heads to Valley Ranch. When he parks his car, he lingers for a few minutes, knowing the guys are going to be in there, knowing there's no way he's getting out of the locker room without someone saying something. It would be be a travesty of maleness if someone didn't bring it up. He knows it's coming. So he gathers up the courage and goes inside.
He walks in the locker room and notices that conversations cease, sees guys looking at each other. There's not many guys smiling or joking. What few are seem to stop as he walks to his locker.
Finally, the inevitable. . . . one of the guys says "Man, can't you keep that bitch quiet?"
Someone else says "they (the Eagles) probably have that sh** taped on their wall".
Tony can feel the heat of the red flush of embarassment creep up his neck and into his face.
Someone says "Man, you need to control her better than you're doing."
Now we're talking loss of manhood here. This is a male society, macho, manly. Men should not be dealing with the aftermath of some silly woman running her mouth. Tony knows they're right. He didn't control his woman.
Someone else says something, but Tony is so deep in thought the words don't register.
Finally, he turns to the crowd that has gathered and sees all eyes on him. He looks down at his shoes for a brief second and says "Look guys. . . it's just good pu**y." He looks at the crowd, lips somewhat pursed, shrugs his shoulders and turns back to his locker.
The guys look at each other. For a moment no one says anything. Then one guy shrugs his shoulders and kind of nods his head. More heads begin to nod. Someone says "OK, I can see that". The crowd breaks up and everyone goes about their business.
Tony sighs in relief. The embarassment is over. He explained the whole thing with four words. He's still a man. He's still the king of the Cowboys.
Monday, September 8, 2008
Not this year. . . .
My blog is about reality. Sometimes reality doesn't fit so well with the denizens in Cowboys Nation. But it's still reality. So here's some reality for you.
I watch several of the Cowboys related message boards and have for several years. Historically, Cowboys fans by this point time have lathered themselves into such a frenzy that message traffic is at a pinnacle for the year.
Arguments about particular players and their (perceived) impending positive effect on the team abound. As an example, one says "Quincy Carter will lead us to the promised land". Another says he isn't. Then the arguments about whether Terrell Owens should be brought in or not. Differences in opinion fueled the message boards. Everyone had an opinion and few were reticent to voice them.
Not this year.
This year, there has been a marked and quite noticeable decrease in message traffic during training camp and preseason. Normally, this time of the year, one can log onto the message boards and easily spend an hour viewing new posts, reading new articles about the Cowboys and just generally keeping up with what's going on in Cowboys land. But this year, I can peruse three or four different Cowboys message boards and be through in half an hour at most.
Has eleven years of high (although false) expectations finally sunk in? Are today's fans finally convinced that until the Cowboys prove to us they can end their regular season by winning more games than they lose in December, those fan's aren't going to invest the emotion and money (Read that, Mr. Jones!) into a team that has let them down year after year after year.
Jerry Jones has predicted Superbowl seasons every year practically since they actually did have one back in '95.
Not this year.
I have no doubt he believes this team has the potential to make it to the Superbowl. Whether he's thinking that mentioning the "S" word might somehow jinx them, I don't know. I just know he's dodging that word like he would dodge a Texas rattlesnake.
The players aren't talking smack either. Most of them stay away from the "S" word also. But what's most interesting is that the fans online aren't talking smack about Superbowls either. Sure, you hear one occasionally, but more often than not, if they do mention going to the Superbowl, there's a caveat included about the Cowboys cratering in December or being able to win one playoff game first.
It appears to me that regardless of what we want, the reality of what the Cowboys have shown us for eleven years has set in for most of us. Perinneal losers is the reality. Losing more games in December than they won is the reality. Going into the playoffs on a negative note is the reality. Getting our hopes up as fans only to be disappointed at season end is the reality. Can they change that reality.
Of course. but until they do, reality remains as it is.
We've seen one game so far this season. The Cowboys looked great in almost every facet of the game, handily giving the Browns a 28-10 defeat. For the first time since 1995, we got to see a Dallas offense step onto the football field and just methodically march the ball downfield, seemingly indifferent to what the Browns were trying to do defensively. We haven't seen a Dallas offense with that kind of swagger since the last Cowboys Superbowl season in 1995.
Now, does that mean they're to clear off the shelf for the new trophy? Does it mean the Cowboys will play like that all season? Of course not. It means they owned the Browns yesterday. There are 15 more games to be played this regular season. Four of those are in December. The Cowboys suck in December. They have for 13 years straight. That's the reality.
On, January 1, 2007, I wrote this in my blog:
"To those that might possibly read this that can actually effect a change in the Cowboys organization, be aware that not every fan is going to be like me. Not every one of them is going to return to the trough every year for more of the putrid feed you've been serving us for the past 11 years. Some of those fans are going to find other teams to root for, or another sport. Those fans won't spend money on your merchandise and tickets. And that will make your cash register smaller. And that will mean you have less money to spend in places you really need to spend money. The formula is really quite simple.
Win Games = More Money, Lose Games = Less Money"
Here we are in 2008 now, facing another season with hopes (albeit rather quiet hopes this year). It's hard to get fired up for this team at this point. Yes, they looked good yesterday. But we all ate the cheese last year when they entered December having lost only one game. The December Meltdown showed up right on cue and they went into the playoffs on a downward spiral, only to lose to the Giants, a team they had already beaten twice last season.
No, eating the cheese is much harder this season. How can we get fired up in September. Or even October. We did that last year. Or November. We did that last year, too. Do we want to go spend a ton of money on Cowboys paraphenalia before December? I don't. And I firmly believe there are lots of other fans that don't, either. There are few things worse than watching your favorite team just turn into mush. Is this silence an indication that the fans are hanging onto their hard earned dollars until they see some viable positive results from the Cowboys? I contend it is. And I believe this was inevitable. Most loyalties are a matter of convenience. We want to feel like "our team" is the best. When "our team" wins, we feel better. "Our team" has disappointed us for years. And I contend many are jumping ship because of it. At the least, many are holding on to their dollars until they see some results. If Jerry Jones hasn't already seen a change in his bottom line, I truly believe he will.
Now, if the Cowboys play the rest of the season (that includes December!) like they did yesterday, then I believe they can go all the way. Yes, I'm talking Superbowl Championship winners. World Champions.
If they crater in December, regardless of their record before then, they will not go to the Superbowl.
Now, is that a prediction?
Not this year. . . . .
I wouldn't want to interrupt the silence. . . .
Rod
I watch several of the Cowboys related message boards and have for several years. Historically, Cowboys fans by this point time have lathered themselves into such a frenzy that message traffic is at a pinnacle for the year.
Arguments about particular players and their (perceived) impending positive effect on the team abound. As an example, one says "Quincy Carter will lead us to the promised land". Another says he isn't. Then the arguments about whether Terrell Owens should be brought in or not. Differences in opinion fueled the message boards. Everyone had an opinion and few were reticent to voice them.
Not this year.
This year, there has been a marked and quite noticeable decrease in message traffic during training camp and preseason. Normally, this time of the year, one can log onto the message boards and easily spend an hour viewing new posts, reading new articles about the Cowboys and just generally keeping up with what's going on in Cowboys land. But this year, I can peruse three or four different Cowboys message boards and be through in half an hour at most.
Has eleven years of high (although false) expectations finally sunk in? Are today's fans finally convinced that until the Cowboys prove to us they can end their regular season by winning more games than they lose in December, those fan's aren't going to invest the emotion and money (Read that, Mr. Jones!) into a team that has let them down year after year after year.
Jerry Jones has predicted Superbowl seasons every year practically since they actually did have one back in '95.
Not this year.
I have no doubt he believes this team has the potential to make it to the Superbowl. Whether he's thinking that mentioning the "S" word might somehow jinx them, I don't know. I just know he's dodging that word like he would dodge a Texas rattlesnake.
The players aren't talking smack either. Most of them stay away from the "S" word also. But what's most interesting is that the fans online aren't talking smack about Superbowls either. Sure, you hear one occasionally, but more often than not, if they do mention going to the Superbowl, there's a caveat included about the Cowboys cratering in December or being able to win one playoff game first.
It appears to me that regardless of what we want, the reality of what the Cowboys have shown us for eleven years has set in for most of us. Perinneal losers is the reality. Losing more games in December than they won is the reality. Going into the playoffs on a negative note is the reality. Getting our hopes up as fans only to be disappointed at season end is the reality. Can they change that reality.
Of course. but until they do, reality remains as it is.
We've seen one game so far this season. The Cowboys looked great in almost every facet of the game, handily giving the Browns a 28-10 defeat. For the first time since 1995, we got to see a Dallas offense step onto the football field and just methodically march the ball downfield, seemingly indifferent to what the Browns were trying to do defensively. We haven't seen a Dallas offense with that kind of swagger since the last Cowboys Superbowl season in 1995.
Now, does that mean they're to clear off the shelf for the new trophy? Does it mean the Cowboys will play like that all season? Of course not. It means they owned the Browns yesterday. There are 15 more games to be played this regular season. Four of those are in December. The Cowboys suck in December. They have for 13 years straight. That's the reality.
On, January 1, 2007, I wrote this in my blog:
"To those that might possibly read this that can actually effect a change in the Cowboys organization, be aware that not every fan is going to be like me. Not every one of them is going to return to the trough every year for more of the putrid feed you've been serving us for the past 11 years. Some of those fans are going to find other teams to root for, or another sport. Those fans won't spend money on your merchandise and tickets. And that will make your cash register smaller. And that will mean you have less money to spend in places you really need to spend money. The formula is really quite simple.
Win Games = More Money, Lose Games = Less Money"
Here we are in 2008 now, facing another season with hopes (albeit rather quiet hopes this year). It's hard to get fired up for this team at this point. Yes, they looked good yesterday. But we all ate the cheese last year when they entered December having lost only one game. The December Meltdown showed up right on cue and they went into the playoffs on a downward spiral, only to lose to the Giants, a team they had already beaten twice last season.
No, eating the cheese is much harder this season. How can we get fired up in September. Or even October. We did that last year. Or November. We did that last year, too. Do we want to go spend a ton of money on Cowboys paraphenalia before December? I don't. And I firmly believe there are lots of other fans that don't, either. There are few things worse than watching your favorite team just turn into mush. Is this silence an indication that the fans are hanging onto their hard earned dollars until they see some viable positive results from the Cowboys? I contend it is. And I believe this was inevitable. Most loyalties are a matter of convenience. We want to feel like "our team" is the best. When "our team" wins, we feel better. "Our team" has disappointed us for years. And I contend many are jumping ship because of it. At the least, many are holding on to their dollars until they see some results. If Jerry Jones hasn't already seen a change in his bottom line, I truly believe he will.
Now, if the Cowboys play the rest of the season (that includes December!) like they did yesterday, then I believe they can go all the way. Yes, I'm talking Superbowl Championship winners. World Champions.
If they crater in December, regardless of their record before then, they will not go to the Superbowl.
Now, is that a prediction?
Not this year. . . . .
I wouldn't want to interrupt the silence. . . .
Rod
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