Fanfare, popcorn, disappointment and a curious student: Homecoming football

As 8000 fans cheered, the UBC Thunderbirds took to the field for a game of football against the (University of) Regina Rams.

Homecoming season brings football fanfare to freshmen, returning students and alumni, uniting the university in support of their home team. It’s a big deal, and many look forward to the day with huge hopes.

With so many fans to put up to, the UBC Thunderbirds were ready to fight hard. Although it rained all morning, the clouds cleared up before the game and students and fans gathered in the Thunderbird Stadium dressed to cheer for the team.

And fight hard they did. The UBC Thunderbirds led the first half of the game, with a good 10-3 lead. However, the Regina Rams’ strong defence prevented Thunderbirds from scoring any more touchdowns and the home team lost 10-20. Although the game left many fans disappointed, I wasn’t one of them – I had just watched my first full game of live football.

Believe it or not, Homecoming was the first time I really watched football. All through my childhood, I had never cared to understand the game of American Football, because this game isn’t played in my home country of India. In fact, I am not big on sports, and I stuck to playing street cricket and soccer. When I was offered Homecoming tickets, my curiosity struck and I decided to understand the game. Homecoming would be a great start to football in my life.

I thoroughly enjoyed the Thunderbirds vs Rams game. While others spent their time cheering and eating popcorn, I tried to analyse what the quarterbacks and receivers did, and how the touchdown was scored. I understood what ‘downs’ are and how passes are made. Football is a fast-paced game, and I tried my best to keep up with the progress.

UBC Thunderbirds lost the game, but I succeeded. I walked back to residence reflecting on the many new things I had learnt that day, and how that spark of curiosity, kindled by the opportunity, gave way to a unique first experience. As for the UBC Thunderbirds, they put up a great game – and I wish them luck for next time!