The Importance Of Being Jews In Football

Words: 644
Pages: 3

Salty-sweet sweat dripped over my brow and into my eyes, my calves were cramping, my lungs were heavy with exhaustion, and I was having qualms. Why was I out here in the heat, doing three-a-day practices for a sport I hadn't played since middle school? Why had I gone out for football my senior year? While the answer was far from obvious, it would come to me in the locker room as we complained about the heat or the constant running. The sense of community, unity of shared experiences, and exhilaration of a close game is worth more than gold to any team. These experiences I share will form the fond reflective memories of reunions and "stories of the glory-days". Yet, I also know that the bonds with my teammates will fade with the painted yard lines at the end of football season, because I am Jewish. …show more content…
Being Jewish at Webb School means that while the school I attend is "tolerant" to all religions, almost all the student athletes participate in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Having an FCA means that there is always a prayer to Jesus before every athletic event. Having a Christian sporting community means that when the parents identify you in the stands, your most prominent attribute is your religion, regardless of your athletic ability. Living in a predominantly Christian community means that the first question anyone asks you is, "where do you go to church?" and being Jewish in this community means you never have a good answer. When asked this question by the protective and religious mother of your girlfriend, that relationship is quickly set up for failure. Being Jewish in Knoxville once meant my best friend decided I was a Satan worshipper when he attended my bar mitzvah. The loss of friends and girlfriends leads the inevitable attraction to fellow Jewish