Attending first UA game? Priceless

By Staff
Leada Gore, Editor
Shortly before my nephew Isaac was born, my sister Anna went to the gift shop at the hospital and bought him a teddy bear. The bear was wearing an Auburn shirt and, when you pressed its stomach, it played “War Eagle.” This bear was placed into his crib minutes after he was born.
He literally was born an Auburn fan.
Fast forward 10 years. For some reason, Isaac has decided he doesn’t want to be an Auburn fan, bucking the preferences of his father, mother and brother. Instead, he wants to be an Alabama fan, something that made his Aunt Leada very happy.
So, I was thrilled earlier this year when I asked him if he’d like to go to a Bama game and he replied with an enthusiastic yes. I picked the game carefully, thinking Alabama vs. Duke would be a sure victory (I know, I know. I was sweating it for a while, but it turned out OK). I drafted my mother – also an Alabama fan – for support and headed off to Tuscaloosa. Once we were there, we were determined to show Isaac the full spectrum of being an Alabama fan.
Purchasing an Alabama football jersey with the same number as the quarterback?
Done.
Buying a sweatshirt and matching hat so he could wear them to school on team day?
Done.
Visiting the Bear Bryant Museum?
Done.
Buying commemorative cup, football and crimson and white shaker?
Done.
We went to the game, taking time to point out all the neat things about the new stadium. We watched the game, cheered, visited the concession stand, anything at all. This day was all about Isaac and Alabama football.
Just as I thought we were heading into the home stretch – both on the field and in the stands – there was a small commotion on the field. Isaac and I looked up just in time to see a young man sprinting down the field. He wasn’t wearing a uniform but he was making good time.
The crowd cheered, especially since his 80 yard sprint was more than we had seen all night. He was caught by security who quickly escorted him off the field. Suddenly, this became the most important event of the night to Isaac. He wanted to know what would happen to the guy, where he would go and why did he do that in the first place.
In the end, Alabama and Isaac won. I hope he remembers the time his aunt and his grandmother took him to the game. I hope he forgets the kid running across the field.
I do not want to post bail anytime soon.