Football Few sports are as engaging as football, and few sports are as popular. Come Sunday, millions of Americans tune their televisions to their local sports networks to catch the game. Because there are so few games during the regular season, every football game is filled with tension and excitement. Playing football is as much an art as a science; the rules are intricate and mentally demanding, while the game itself challenges its players' physical endurance and strength. The players must learn to endure all sorts of weather conditions, from extreme heat to snow and still pull out a win or at least a stellar try. More than anything, however, football teaches teamwork; although the quarterbacks receive most of the attention in the media, each participant is integral. Some plays demand total unity among all the linebackers on the field and require ultimate mental concentration on the part of each person. In fact, football is a lot more psychologically oriented than many spectators assume by watching it; it seems like the sport is merely about brute force. In fact, the sheer size and fortitude of the men on the gridiron are only parts of the game. Subtle cues, strategies, and interpersonal communication all come into play and require that each player be intensely focused on the game. However demanding football is on the players and the coaches, the sport is ultimately fun to play and be a part of. The camaraderie that develops among teammates is palpable in the locker room and friendships between players often last a lifetime. Playing football involves passion, strength, skill, and strategy; the sport encourages its players to push past personal limits and accomplish their goals.

The gridiron glows green after the rains last night, each blade of grass reflecting the glorious midday sun. Most of the players are warming up on the field, running laps, doing calisthenics, and stretching every limb, muscle, and tendon. The tension in the air is palpable; the opposing team has...

As a result, none of the players talk, instead keeping their fears in check and refusing to admit any nervousness. Most of the men refuse even to make eye contact, keeping their thoughts as secret as their souls. Sweat beads begin to form rapidly on the men's burly bodies, for the day is already a hot and humid one. The Southern clime is ideal for most of the football season, and home games for us often end in victory. However, this year we have had to deal with two serious injuries. After a few more minutes of warming up, the coach blows his whistle. The sound pierces through the deadly silence filling the air on the field and breaks some of the nervous tension as well; it signifies the beginning of a good pep talk and a discussion about today's particular game strategies. We head over toward the bleachers, most of us remaining standing and continuing to stretch or run in place. However, we listen intently to the coach's words. He relays and recaps the strengths and weaknesses of our opponent and reminds us not to fall into the traps we sometimes find ourselves into. Some of our running backs make comments about needing more assistance from the quarterback. The heat of the sun intensifies, and soon we grow impatient and thirsty, heading for the locker room for refreshments and a light snack. Game time is in less than an hour; many of the men don't like to eat anything but I usually eat a few bananas now to keep my blood sugar in check and prevent cramping.
While in the locker room, my left calf aches from a Charlie horse; I rub it vigorously before the coach can see me wincing. I don't want him to notice that my body isn't in tip-top shape. I've been injured a few times this season, and am already contending with a dislocated shoulder. The pain is usually quite dull and improves in the hot, humid weather, so I'm thankful we aren't playing in Minnesota today. A few yelps and cheers echo throughout the room, as we get…