Stomp That Bus

Where’s Z Devil?

Everyday I’m Devilin

Being an Arizona State University (ASU) alum and football fan is a thrilling experience. From the adrenaline-pumping games to the electric atmosphere of the stadium, every moment is a memory I wouldn’t trade for anything. I am extremely grateful for the chance to cheer on the team with my dad through nail-biting home victories. We have had two last-minute wins and a couple of hangers-on. For the third time in the last 8 years, I stormed the field with a win over highly touted Utah and have a photo with Coach Dillingham on the field to prove it.

I may have scared the neighborhood with my loud screaming cheers during our majestic win over Kansas University this past weekend. My favorite football memory was beating our rival, the University of Arizona (UofA) 70-7 a few years ago. And since our seats were on the 50-yard line and the visitors’ side of the field I was able to see the tears of Tucson up close and personal. There have also been heartbreaking losses to our rivals, and the games where you know we could have won if we didn’t make so many knucklehead mistakes.

I am proud to say I have met tremendous players like Eno Benjamin, Branden Aiyuk, Jack Jones, Coaches Dillingham and Herm Edwards, and so many more. I will even be able to meet the leading all-purpose player in the nation this year in Cam Skataboo this  Sunday at a meet and greet.

Jack Jones and I celebrating a win over Oregon Duckies

Football is more than just watching college kids use their athleticism for good entertainment, it is also about remembering the value of time and the importance of traditions. There are times I think, we have 2 minutes left in the game, and a field goal could give us a W, but is that possible? Every time, I am reminded that it is. A game can be made or broken within 7 seconds if a team is hungry enough. Football teaches me never to give up.

Football has also taught me to not believe stats will define a season. Every game is a new game. ASU was predicted to finish last in the Big 12 and would be lucky if they won 3 games. With two games left in the season, I am proud to say they are in contention for the
Big Twelve championship if we beat Brigham Young University this Saturday. I am excited to be part of the rowdiest crowd at the first sold-out game in 10 years. It will be amazing to be with my fellow Sun Devils screaming and yelling at the refs for the bad calls and hugging strangers when we get touchdowns. People have been asking left and right why I am not selling my tickets when I can make $1,000 a ticket, but I say there is something more precious than money. The memories I am making with my dad are worth more than that. Being able to support my team through the ups and downs is what being a fan is all about!

My friend… Coach Dilly

Whether it’s game day at Sun Devil Stadium or watching from home, being an ASU football fan is an unforgettable experience that brings joy and excitement and sometimes heartbreak with every game.

Moral: 1.) “Never give up, never surrender.” 2.) A lot can happen in 30 seconds. 3) Memories are priceless.