When I was in the 5th grade, I got an opportunity that I would not let pass. My two friends, Ronnie, Nick and I, were invited by the Boys and Girls club of America to go see the New England Patriots play the Baltimore Ravens at home. I was more excited than ever.

At the time, the game was only a few days away, and believe me, I was counting down. Gameday was on a warm, cloudless football Sunday. It was perfect. We got in the van, (Ronnie, Nick, and I) at around 9:30 and began the few hour drive into Foxboro.

The drive there was incredibly boring, but I knew it was worth it. Being in 5th grade, we didn’t realize just how annoying we were, to each other and the counselors. We listened to music for hours, and sat around talking. When we arrived, we saw people that were tailgating, which I want to do so badly. We met a few people, all die hard Pats fans. Its surprising how something like football really brings people together.

My first walk into Gillette Stadium was awesome. On the middle deck of the stadium where most of the seats were, there were a ton of fast-food places, and a huge McDonalds. We walked around the stadium for at least 45 minutes, since we got their early. One thing I'll remember: How expensive everything was. A bottle of water costed over 2 dollars.

After our fun walk around, we realized we should probably find our seats. I don't remember the exact row and all that info, but i remember that we were in the middle, aligned with the field goal post. They were really good seats for a first timer.

The game was a hard-hitting battle, as always when these two teams play, since i’d say that we’re rivals. Nearing the 2 minute warning in the fourth quarter, the Pats were up 27-21. We were winning, but the problem was that the Ravens were driving down the field, and it looked as if they were going to score. After a deep pass to Anquan Boldin that put them at 1st goal, people in the stands began leaving. They had lost hope. I’ll admit, i sort of did too, but i was there with counselors so I couldn't leave.

On 1st and goal, Ray Rice was stopped for a short gain. On second and goal, Joe Flacco was sacked for a loss. Now it was third and goal. We were two plays from victory. I remember this play more than anything. It continues to run through my mind to this day. Joe Flacco called the snap, dropped back, and was pressured heavily. He escaped the rushers, fled out of the pocket, and began to go on the run. He threw a pass to one of his receivers, who tipped it. There were three defenders around the receiver, watching the ball almost in slow motion as it came down to earth. Our strong safety at the time, Leigh Bodden, flew in the air at the ball and came down with it. Interception.

The crowd roared. Like I said, i was only in 5th grade, so I was still young. But still, that crowd was LOUD. The stadium felt like it was shaking. I watched as the players all jumped on one another, celebrating. I saw the coaches run out, shake hands, and walk away. That was true sportsmanship.

This day will always be remembered by me, since it got me into football and being a die-hard Patriots fan even more. I’ve been to a few other games, and I have tickets for a few more. But still, years later, each new game is more exciting than ever.