Obnoxious and excited cheers echo
from across the field as a very husky boy
in a white and green jersey runs the ball into the end zone.
We watch with bland faces when the players bounce
around and leap over each other with excitement.
Loud cries of proud parents and joyful peers fly through the air.

The clock continues to run down,
and our side is motionless as my heart beats faster.
It sounds strange to think that you probably could have
heard a pin drop on these bleachers.
We are impressed but refuse to show it. Still,
my heart beats faster. Mothers wearing sweet
perfume lean into their husbands and
try to hide their ignorance as they
whisper in their ears, “What is happening now?”
My heart beats faster.
The popcorn I’m shoveling into my mouth is too salty
but I eat my fear away with every crunch.
I, like everyone around me, grip the icy seat with patience.

There is no time for error.
The marching band a few rows away plays a tune as a few
muffled voices chant along, “Go blue!”
Time stops as the ball goes flying through the air.
People stand, cheering once again.
Obnoxious and excited cheers echo.
But this time, it was on our side of the field.