One tough chick

I know Saturday is college football day, and I know that it was homecoming at my alma mater and DePauw also had a game right here in town. But it wasn't a college game.

It was a 5th and 6th grade game between the Warren County Patriots and the South Vermillion Steelers. Although I would sooner cut off my left hand than cheer for the Patriots to beat the Steelers in the NFL, I was firmly behind the Patriots on this one.

I had to. My niece plays offensive and defensive line for the Patriots

That's right, I said niece.

There was a time I would have been dead set against a girl playing football, but your opinion on such things cools when you have a family member involved.

Why shouldn't a girl play? If she enjoys herself, it's all that really matters. Having fun is the point of the boys playing, so it's also the point when a girl plays.

It has also inspired several versions of the following conversation for her parents and grandparents at recent games:

Do you have a grandson playing?

No, my granddaughter.

Oh, she's a cheerleader?

No ... she's playing football.

Oh ... (awkward silence)

Awkward silences can be a lot of fun if you're on the correct side of them.

It also makes me happy that her head coach was one of my first ever football coaches way back in sixth grade. I know she's in good hands.

So, all I really need to say is, "Go, Kayce! Keep bringing the pain."