Long before I became a REAL writer, I produced one of the largest Pittsburgh Steelers websites on the Internet. I also published a monthly Steelers magazine called “The Black and Gold” and provided editorial copy and satirical essays for several fan networks and print publications (see "Contributing Works" on my Baseball Studies links page). This "out of control hobby" landed me in the Pittsburgh Post Gazette newspaper three times and represented my first baby-steps toward becoming a professional writer. To say that I was (and "is") a Stillers' fanatic (as we say in the 'burg) would probably be an understatement. Steeler’s fans are almost too obsessed with their beloved team (myself included) and wear their “Black and Gold Pride” like a huge badge of honor. If you lived (or grew up like I did), in Pittsburgh during the 1970's - you still bleed black and gold.
Therefore, it is only in the way I was raised that I now own an obscene amount of Steelers jerseys, hats, jackets etc. The master bathroom in my house is completely covered in the Steelers logo (that may be a problem when we sell) and I have an entire wall of bookshelves filled with autographed memorabilia and game jerseys. It is a sickness and I am glad that I can finally get it out in the open. However, after 11-years of excruciating disappointment and 4 unforgettable AFC Championship Game disasters – Pittsburgh finally ran the gauntlet, set several post-season records, and most importantly, landed Jerome Bettis the opportunity to play in his first (and probably last) Super Bowl in his hometown of Detroit. This was a tremendous season of adversity - and this team (especially) deserves all the respect in the world. Not since the days of “The Dynasty” has a Steelers roster looked so promising.
Now I sit here, relishing in the victory, but dreading the next two weeks of bandwagon press coverage and propaganda. After all, the Super Bowl has become a tacky "pop culture" phenomenon full of crappy half time shows and even crappier commercials. Unfortunately, the game itself has taken a backseat to everything that is wrong with America, BUT I am very thankful that they are going and cannot wait to witness history. So don't call me on February 5th because I won't answer. I'll be too busy waving my Terrible Towel (with a bottle of Pepto in hand) and chanting "Here We Go Steelers - Here We Go!"
And to Big Ben, The Bus, and the rest of the 2005 AFC Champions… Thanks Yinz' Guyz'.