Long before we called them the Tribe or black was added to their uniforms, I’ve been privileged to cheer on the Bridgeport Indians. Probably from the time I attended Bridgeport Junior High – 40 years ago or so - I’ve periodically attended BHS football, basketball and baseball games. As a young teen, I watched the older kids play – and cheer and twirl, in awe of the girls doing the latter. As I got a little older, I marched on the field during football season and cheered on my high school boyfriend as he played baseball and basketball. As the years went on, I watched other family members, including brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews and my own children. Though my role – and my view – has changed throughout the years, one thing has not: BHS athletic teams, cheer teams, music groups – you name it – give it their best shot and take pride in what they do. And like I recently wrote about, the folks behind the scenes, including those in the concession stand and press box, selling programs, T-shirts and 50/50 tickets or carrying band props are vital components to the overall picture.

 

When we take the stands these days, our routine is about the same. We gather our hot chocolate, blow pops, popcorn and other concession goodies and take our seats on the 30 yard line closest to the scoreboard. There, I can see the faces of students who have rushed the stands – collectively dressed in Tribe colors, camouflage or any number of creative themes. While many are jumping up and down, sharing high fives and otherwise celebrating each touchdown, I am often watching faces and actions of players and fans, absolutely loving what I see. I’m often teased about wanting to stay and watch the team members shake hands after the game - but hey, I do. Likewise, I like seeing an arm extended from the sidelines to pat a player on the back or a player sitting out because of injury accommodating the team as water boy.

 

Call me sappy. But you can always call me an Indian fan. It’s about sports – and a whole lot more.

 

See views from the stands at Saturday's BHS victory over RCB in the gallery below. 

 

Editor's Note: For the record, I don't care that the Indians have black in their uniforms and I love the phrase "Roll Tribe!" I mentioned football, baseball and basketball because those are the sports I was most involved with back in the 1970s. I feel the same way about soccer, swim team, track and all other BHS sports. 
 

Julie Perine can be reached at 304-848-7200, julie@connect-bridgeport.com or follow @JuliePerine on Twitter. 

 

Read more "It's Happening" HERE. 

 

 

 

View Photo Gallery

BHS vs. RCB Views from the Stands