Epic ND Game

I had promised Novali last year that once she was ten she could go to an ND Football Game. I told her that the games are long, and we go to watch the game... not spend it taking 15 minute trips to the bathroom, wanting to walking around or leave early cause she is bored. So I said once she is ten she should have the patience for a long football game.

Well for my birthday her and I went to the Notre Dame vs University of South Florida game... it was set to be a hot day. We prepared for the heat with sun screen, shades and she wore a cap. There was potential for some rain and we figured a nice rain would help cool the game off.

We walked up to the stadium just as the AirForce Flyby happened... she said... "Man that was loud, but it was awesome!"

We got some pop and headed into the stadium! Found our seats and settled in... Go Irish!

The game started off rough... actually rough might be an understatement. Two turnovers in the red zone, fumbled punt return... the game was a complete mess for the Irish. Then the real mess started at half time... weather delay just as the band started to take the field. Then they evacuated the stadium! We stayed in the concourse area for what we hoped would be a 15 minute delay...

Two hours later, and several refills into our "All You Can Drink Souvenir Cup" we were still in the concourse. Novali was resolved to stay, she didn't want to leave, but she did want a hot pretzel. The only happy people were the concession stand staff... they were raking in the money!

We finally got in for the second half and the Irish started with a FURY! It was exciting, we were getting yards, the new QB was getting it done and Novali was finally understanding some of the rules on downs.

Then as the game was looking grim... another rain delay! She still wanted to stay, we topped off our pop and waited it out.The Irish rewarded the faithful with a great touchdown to bring the game within 3 points with only seconds left on the clock... excitement filled the air as the onside kick looked good... but was grabbed at the last minute by a USF Bull. Game over.

We had a great time! We got two games for the price of one basically... a hot day game... and a cool night game under the lights. We broke a record for a 6 hour football game, we made some friends, and Novali got her wish of watching the Irish play. Hopefully next time we go, they win...