Sh@t talkers?!

[djnemo65]

Originally Posted by GMScud

Exactly. I grew up IN the District. Not in the 'burbs, but actually in NW DC. When the Expos moved and became the Nats, I had love for 'em, but I grew up going to 20 Orioles games every summer. I love the Birds despite their constant futility (much like the Skins). I wasn't about to switch my loyalties.

College is a little different though. I grew up loving the Terps and the Hoyas, but I moved to Gainesville, went to the University of Florida, and have lived here for 8 years. I friggin' love the Gators. When I bleed, it's four colors: burgundy, gold, orange, and blue. I still cheer for the Terps and Hoyas, but the Gators have become "my team." It's easy though because they're in 3 different conferences (ACC, SEC, Big East) and rarely play each other in any sport.

You bring up an important point GMscud, one that I would like to address. The only time jumping ship on your team is permissable is if you like a college team and matriculate to a different school. I grew up a diehard Terps fan - my parents actually met there. When I went to Penn State I showed up with a closet full of Terps gear. Today I still like the Terps and root for them, but it's nothing compared to the love I feel for Penn State. There's just something about going to a school, knowing the players, connecting with old alumni, and remembering not just the games but the whole experience associated with going to the games, that can't be described.

So I think that's the one time you get a pass, because you don't chose to like your school's team, it's more like something that takes a hold of you. A passion kind of like Brokeback Mountain, except not gay.