???It is hard to say why professional sports get so much attention and are such a huge part of American society.
???Professional athletes appear to live a very glamorous and extravagant life. People everywhere idolize them, young and old.
Athletes exist under a spotlight and represent the city that they play in, as well as the fans that show their support all across the country.
???Growing up, I, like many of my peers, was a huge sports enthusiast. One way I showed this was by collecting trading cards and other sports memorabilia. I spent hundreds, maybe thousands, of dollars on these collectibles.
???My friends and I would get together and gawk over newly acquired items. We would talk about how much we wanted cards we didn't have, and sometimes even trade to expand our collection.
???Even though I collected items from many different players and loved the Bills and Sabres more than life itself, New York Rangers goaltender Mike Richter was the true object of my affection.
Throughout my childhood, I managed to acquire three different jerseys, four different figurines (the boy's word for doll), and 74 trading cards.
???My most prized Richter item was a game-used jersey card that I purchased at the flea market for $80. I didn't collect these things to try to sell them and make a profit; I did it because I wanted a piece of something that I thought was greater than myself. I wanted to be a part of somebody else's success, even if they were unaware of it. I looked up to Richter and used him as a role model.
???When I was 11, I went so far as to write Richter a letter, telling him how much I looked up to him, asking him for an autograph. Young and naive, I figured that I would immediately get something back in appreciation. I waited and waited and checked the mail every day, but found nothing more than a new Sports Illustrated for Kids magazine or a card from my grandmother.
???I was devastated, but still followed Richter and the Rangers more closely than ever before. About five months after drafting my letter of adoration, there was an envelope in the mail from a strange address. I opened it curiously and inside I found a letter from Richter and two signed cards. It was the best day of my life. I felt as if a dream had come true.
???Looking back, I now realize how lucky I was to have gotten a response. We see athletes everywhere today snubbing young kids and adults trying to get autographs, a picture, or even just a simple handshake.
???Athletes are often too concerned with getting to their bus or their hotel after a game to take a simple second to show their appreciation to the fans that put so much effort, money, and energy into a person or team. Without the fans, the athletes and the teams that they play for would be nothing.
???Many say that professional sports are just stupid and a waste of time. I find it difficult to come up with a rebuttal to this statement. It is uncertain to me the actual reason that we as fans put so much into just watching sports. I'll never have a valid rationale for the support we pour onto teams and players, especially ones that give us nothing in return.
???Being from Buffalo, I have been surrounded by Bills and Sabres fanatics since the day I was born. Maybe it is just in my blood, or maybe it is a cultural thing. When I sit and actually think about it, what difference will it make to me personally if the Bills win a Super Bowl or the Sabres clinch a Stanley Cup?
???I won't profit from it physically at all, but I can tell you that the day it happens will be one of the most fulfilling days of my life. Now that Mike Richter has retired, Buffalo sports are all I have to turn to. It may not happen this year or the next, but I am certain that one day it will and I will be there basking in the glory of Buffalo sports success.
???For those laughing at me, just wait and see. It will come and I still won't have a valid explanation for those who ask me why I care so much.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
