What It Means to be a Football Fan

"The essence of tradition lies in the hearts of the people who protect and perpetuate that storied history that was handed down to them. And they carefully pass that legacy down to generations yet to come." —From the Foreword by Bo Schembechler

The book is titled "What It Means To Be A Wolverine". This quote from former coach Bo Schembechler pretty much sums up why any fan remains loyal to his team. If you are a true fan of any team, you must honor, respect and pass on the traditions of that team.

Because I'm sporting a gift Michigan Wolverine Jersey this season I figured I'd better brush up on their history. Wow, they've got a history that makes a Raiders fan jealous. Their stadium "The Big House" seats 111,000 fans and has been sold out since 1975. Not only that but this season they're currently ranked No. 2 in the country and have a good shot at playing for the National Championship.

Wearing my Michigan jersey I'm constantly hearing "Go Blue" shouts from obvious Michigan fans. I found the UMGOBLUE.COM site and will continue to follow the team through the rest of the season.

But check out some incredible writeups about the Michigan Wolverine Football Tradition:

Michigan football is all about tradition. Michigan has not has a losing season since 1967, the longest streak in college football. In fact, they have had only had 14 losing seasons in their 126 year history. They will be playing in their 31st consecutive bowl game. Also the longest streak in college football which would also be about 8 years longer were it not for the Big Ten conferences ridiculous rule that only one team could go to a bowl game up until 1975. Michigan lost only three regular season games from 1970 to 1974 yet only went to one bowl game.

The University of Michigan began playing football in 1879 and hasn’t slowed up yet. The Michigan Wolverines have an All-time record of 849-280-36. The Wolverines’ 849 victories is the most in NCAA history and their .744 winning percentage is also the best of all-time. The Michigan Wolverines have won more Big Ten Championships, forty-two, than anyone, won 18 bowl games, captured three National Championships and have had four Heisman Trophy winners.

". . . how can anyone come close to the tradition in Ann Arbor where games have been played since 1879? "More victories than any school anywhere in the country . . . around 111,000 fans for each game at the Big House . . . the most distinct helmet in the country . . . the greatest fight song in the history of college sports . . . with Ohio State, the most celebrated rivalry in all of sports . . . New Year’s Day bowl games . . . Big Ten championships . . . the tunnel . . . the Little Brown Jug . . . the marching band . . . the tailgate parties. ". . . The history is alive and endless.

Go Blue!