Series: Navigating Aggieland as an International

For most outsiders, the game of “football” often conjures memories of what one might call “soccer” around these parts. But while football and soccer as sports couldn’t be farther apart in their gameplay and rules, the emotions they stir up are certainly comparable. Hollywood has portrayed football for viewers outside of the U.S. in ways that are not easy for those in the U.S. to understand. While we saw Burt Reynolds mesmerize us in The Longest Yard, we have also seen Adam Sandler goofing around in The Waterboy. But the truth is that an honest portrayal of the game in its truest sense is impossible to do, and I realized this recently.
 
When I serendipitously received my tickets to the Texas A&M Aggies vs. New Mexico Lobos game on the 18^th of September, the only expectation I had was “I’m in for a good time.” As with almost all Ph.D. students, any time we get off is worth its weight in gold, and it was the same for me. What I didn’t realize was that I would end up becoming the 12^th man!

Kyle Field is huge. The dimensions of the stadium are enough to intimidate anyone. But it was the sheer scale and passion of the fans and the players, and the electric atmosphere that almost makes you stop and stare in awe. To be part of something so magnetic is indescribable. Of course, the Aggies won. We crushed it! But in true Aggie fashion, it was not just about the game of football, it was more: it was about traditions. This game was nothing different. Aggies of the past were honored, yell leaders pumped up the crowd, spectators rejoiced in their festivities, the magical Corp of Cadets performed their halftime drill, and it all topped off with the fourth quarter rain! As the game ended, throngs of people left the stadium after a day well spent. Some went to the MSC to shop and get their coffees; others went to their cars to join almost stagnant traffic. The rest were on foot surrounded by friends and loved ones already planning their next game day weekend.
 
If you are from outside of Aggieland, it may seem difficult to understand. For some of you, soccer might be “the game;” for others, it could be hockey, rugby, or even cricket. As Texas A&M becomes more diverse, we bring with us our cultures, our passion, our knowledge, and our sports. But among everything we bring with us, I believe the most important is an open mind. Let the beauty of this game, and the experience of enjoying it at Aggieland, enhance your love and understanding of this beautiful country and its people. Of course, I won’t ask you to not believe what I write. Rather, experience it and judge for yourself. Nothing brings Aggies closer than to spend time at the home of the 12^th man.
 
I will see y’all at the next game.

Gig ‘em!
 
– Gogoal Falia
 
Gogoal is a first-year Ph.D. student in the School of Public Health.