When I was three or four, I wore full Red Sox gear to a game at Veterans Stadium in Philadelphia. My high-pitched preschooler voice sent cheers for the Sox into the ballpark buzz. Donning a tee, a cap, and red sunglasses, I was the poster child for the perfect fan. Only problem was, the Red Sox weren’t even playing that night.
Boston is a sports town. Home to the Sox, Celtics, Bruins, Pats, and even the Revolution, one thing you notice is how much the community loves their teams. While the grandeur of parades and victory has its own pulses of energy, it’s really about how sports bring us all together, both in loving our teams and hating the Yankees.
Boston Red Sox
How did a girl from South Jersey become a Red Sox fan? Guess you could say it’s in my blood. My uncle hails from Watertown, Mass and my aunt is a BU alum. When I was younger, I would run up and down the stairs reporting to them the latest stats from the game on the T.V. downstairs.
Since Fenway Park is basically on BU’s campus, making your way over for $9 tickets couldn’t be easier. Just so you know, it’s basically a graduation requirement to visit the oldest ballpark and sing “Sweet Caroline” at the top of your lungs. Honorable Mention to Fever Pitch (2005) for being the greatest movie of all time.
If you have any free time on your hands, one of the best experiences I’ve had here at BU has been working with the Jimmy Fund. It allowed me to meet some incredible everyday heroes and support their work for the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, a cause that hits close to home.
Boston Celtics
TD Garden comes alive when the C’s hit the court. There isn’t a bad seat in the house. Last year, I was lucky enough to watch the Celts in the playoffs (mind you, only for a few bucks. Thanks SAO!) and it was such an incredible experience. Whether you’re coming to see Kyrie Irving, pay your respects to Robert Parish’s 00 in the rafters, or just to see some really tall, talented people, hop on the Green line to see the magic.
New England Patriots
Boston loves Tom Brady so much that we made an ice sculpture for him before this past Super Bowl. Sure, this past month didn’t go as we planned but please never forget that the Atlanta Falcons blew a 28-3 lead. Pats tickets are a little harder to come by, but since heading to the Super Bowl is a annual thing now, you’ll have more than enough chances to watch the GOAT.
Going back home for Thanksgiving this year will be a bit tense, with a split between the Eagles and the Pats, I guess we’re all in for some wholesome conversations.
New England Revolution
If I’m being completely honest, I have never been to a Revs game but they seem nice.
Boston Bruins
The Bruins have my heart. If you’re iffy about hockey, I strongly suggest you make your way to TD Garden, or even BU’s Agganis Arena, to see what all the fuss is about. The energy is infectious, the game will have you at the edge of your seat, and when the goal horn sounds, you’ll be up on your feet.
With a stacked team (featuring former Terriers Charlie McAvoy and Matt Grzelcyk), the Bruins are looking for a strong playoff run this year. Wouldn’t hurt to have another parade to go to.
All in all, sports are a way of life here in Boston. They’re a way to bond with your community, share in the triumphs and the heartbreaks, and honestly, an invaluable way to escape the stresses of college life for a little while.
For me, they’ve been a way to get closer with so many people I love and are another reason why I call Boston my home.
If you need me, I’ll be here in the City of Champions, waiting for another ring.
Peace and love,
Josee
