Rival Schools and the Code

The Thanksgiving college football games reminded us that most schools have a “bitter rival,” and these games have historically been the final game of the season.  Often the rivalry becomes blown out of proportion – with members of one school vilifying the members of the other school, regarding them as some sub-human form of life.   It is too bad when this happens.  There is nothing more exciting than a game between two opponents with each giving their all to win.  Equally, there is nothing more heartwarming than to see the players from each team embracing the other after a long and hard fought contest.  The privilege of being a part of such a contest is its own reward; the honor of playing with teammates is one of life’s richest treasures; the fact that you are supported by alumni no matter the outcome is as it should be.  Rivalries are wonderful, but the goal should always be to win more than the game.