I was born in 1944 and grew up on the South Shore of Long Island, New York. My father, an avid baseball fan, would take me to Yankee games. Certainly, there were opportunities to attend games of that other New York team - the Dodgers, but we always watched the Yankees. Once I asked my father why we always rooted for the Yankees, and he told me it was because the Yankees cared about baseball, and even more important, cared about the fans! I would certainly understand those words in later years when both the Dodgers and the Giants left New York.
As I grew up life brought me to Colorado where I settled down and raised a family including four sons. Through their growing years I became a Bronco fan - actually as the only female in the house, I had no real choice! However, I remained an avid baseball fan. We often attended Bears games, enjoying the camaraderie of the fans, and the organization's concern for family activities. Job opportunities took me to Colorado Springs, and so the Sky Sox became a regular entry on our social calendar!
Soon, news stories began to herald the opportunity that Colorado was being considered as an expansion state for Major League Baseball. I offered my assistance by signing petitions, attending sponsoring events, and writing letters to show my support. Was it possible that there might be a team in Denver?
Now we have the Rockies! A team that has really made a difference to Colorado, to Denver, and more personally to me! The Rockies provide me with an opportunity to have a great, spirited outing with my husband, with children, and especially with grandchildren. My husband says that I have taught him to enjoy the game of baseball, with all of its strategy, and skill. Sometimes, it is our "discussions" over managers' decisions that provide the most spirit!
Why do I love the Rockies? It is simple - the Rockies stand for perseverance, for community service, for opportunities to build family traditions, and as sport models of whom we can be proud. Who could stay seated when Walker, Bichette, Young, Castilla, Holliday, or Helton ran on to the field for another game! This list is not intended to lessen the importance of any of the other players from the past or current. They are all heroes in my book.
My husband and I are both retired and live in a small rural community about 95 miles from the ballpark. Yet each year we order tickets for a few games, and periodically pick up additional tickets during the season. I always bid on tickets at fund-raising events! I love Sunday afternoon games when I can stand in line to get autographs from players. As I stand in those lines, I can feel my father standing there as well. The Rockies have given me back some of those wonderful childhood memories! I love the Rockies for being the team that they are!