First Michigan game Dilemma
I have two sons that are 9 & 10 years old. They have been begging me to go to a Michigan game for the past few years. I've been dying to take them. We live in Seattle. I've haven't taken them yet because of a few reasons. I want them to understand the magnitude of where they are to fully appreciate it, It would be pretty tough to see being that the incline isn't that great and I wanted them understand football a little more.
They're ready.
My real dilemma is that I'm not sure what game to take them to. OSU 2011 or Alabama 2012.
Id like to take them to a home game especially against OSU but the Alabama game in dallas sounds very appealing.
Any thoughts?
Pic below is when they're 4 & 5
December 1st, 2010 at 9:24 PM ^
Can't beat the Big House. I remember playing on that field when I was little, back when they'd leave the stadium unlocked. Those were good times.
December 1st, 2010 at 9:24 PM ^
Ohio State 2011. There isn't a better game or venue in the history of college football than Michigan vs. Ohio State at the Big House.
December 1st, 2010 at 9:31 PM ^
Seeing them play at Cowboy Stadium would be cool, but if you want a TRUE feeling of a Michigan game, come to a game at the Big House. Also, if you want to see pure, unyielding hatred towards an opponent, come to the Ohio State game. It's a win win.
December 1st, 2010 at 11:33 PM ^
Come if you want to experience as true a hatred as we have for an opponent, but don't expect a win for a couple of years more. Still I can remember at least 3 times we were huge underdogs and I got to see us rub their nose in it at the Big House. Now THAT'S an experience of three lifetimes !
December 1st, 2010 at 9:24 PM ^
There is nothing like being at that game. More importantly even, make sure to take them around AA before and after the game. Stand in line for an hour at Blimpie Burger, etc. It's all part of being a UM fan. Gauge the time spent around town after the game based on the game's outcome.
December 1st, 2010 at 9:28 PM ^
Best rivalry in North American sport, playing in the 3rd largest stadium in the world, also one of the most unique venues, and seeing M's first win in The Game in seven years - versus an experience that should be pretty fun but is in Jerry World.
Also, think outside the actual game, wouldn't you rather walk around Ann Arbor than be stuck in traffic in North Texas? Simple choice to me.
December 1st, 2010 at 9:32 PM ^
but if you have to choose... OSU 2011.
You cannot overstate the experience of 115,000 people (that's an educated guess) cheering the Wolverines on to victory over their biggest rival!
I completely agree with tmurda, do the whole AA experience. Tailgate before, eat Blimpy or somewhere downtown, walk around campus.
December 1st, 2010 at 9:32 PM ^
Worth it to see the first W since 2003.
December 2nd, 2010 at 1:31 AM ^
Terrelle will be back next year, OSU is stocked at linebacker and defensive back, and Boom will still be around. Meanwhile, Michigan's defense is probably going to still be rebuilding next year, regardless of whether GERG is back or not.
I'm not scared of Michigan next year, but I think they've got a very good chance of beating OSU in 2012 if Denard stays for his senior year.
December 2nd, 2010 at 1:40 AM ^
But what player has ever said he is going to leave in the middle of the season? The only reason he does is because of the potential lockout.
That said, it's 12 months from now, we'll see where these teams are at then
December 2nd, 2010 at 9:34 AM ^
I watch a lot of OSU games and TP doesn't strike me as an NFL-ready QB. I'd even suggest that Kirk Cousins is much more ready to play in the NFL right now. That said, that hasn't stopped some players in the past (Jevon Snead is a great example).
December 2nd, 2010 at 9:17 AM ^
osu had some pretty good LBs and DBs under Cooper, too. the way the osu factory works, there is never going to be a time when they are bereft of talent, unless Dantonio starts rumors that Tressel has parkinson's and osu's AD gets caught with his pants down and no replacement and - nevermind.....
December 1st, 2010 at 9:35 PM ^
December 1st, 2010 at 9:37 PM ^
But he's trying to put the last nail in the coffin - brainwash them FOR LIFE. He's clearly done all the prep work neccessary. It's time to FINISH THE JOB. Go big. Gets no bigger than making Pryor cry at the Big House.
December 1st, 2010 at 11:35 PM ^
Made me laugh out loud !
December 1st, 2010 at 9:37 PM ^
definitely OSU 2011
December 1st, 2010 at 9:38 PM ^
Your sons will always remember this game for the rest of their lives and there is not a better game to start their Michigan game memories with.
I was 12 when i went to my first game and i remember every aspect of that day like it was yesterday.
December 1st, 2010 at 9:39 PM ^
Both. Spoil them like you know you want to....and yourself.
December 1st, 2010 at 9:43 PM ^
They are older (9&10) so they might not want to see a cream puff, but there are some definite positives.
I would actually suggest taking them to a non-conference game in late September. The weather will be a lot nicer (70's vs. 30's for The Game). The good weather would also allow for some better tailgating as well.
It would be high scoring (with UM doing the scoring). They will be able to see Denard make some incredible plays.
Also, with UM winning by a ton they'd be able to see the wave as well. Take them to Blimpy's after the game or on Sunday.
December 1st, 2010 at 9:48 PM ^
Do the Eastern game. Good crowd, early enough that few of the bandwagoners have fallen off, nice weather for a tailgate and running pass patterns at the golf course or Allmendinger. That's when I take my kids, and if it's enough to whet their appetites, then they join me later on, in person or on the big screen for more important games.
Prime thier pumps with a (nearly) guaranteed win.
Plus, it's easier on the wallet.
December 1st, 2010 at 9:52 PM ^
OSU game is better done after they have a sense of the rivalry, and would make a great "memorable" trip later down the line, after their fandom has grown a bit.
December 1st, 2010 at 10:14 PM ^
You are pretty much assured to see a win. When the game gets out of hand you can take the kids around the stadium and see the sights of the Big House.
My kids first game was Purdue last year. We drove 10 hours each way and it would have been nicer to see a win.
December 1st, 2010 at 9:46 PM ^
The Game should win out any time. Do you really want their first collegiate experience to be a neutral-site game in an NFL stadium?
December 1st, 2010 at 9:54 PM ^
(a season opener against a creampuff) just a few years ago as a college freshman who had never seen a live game before, and the sight of 107,501+ people singing "Hail to the Victors" made me a fan forever.
Definitely take them to a home game (doesn't even have to be OSU; tickets would be pretty expensive if that's a consideration), and I think a non-conf game in September is the perfect way to introduce them to Michigan.
If it's their first game, in my experience, it really won't matter if it's OSU or Eastern, the experience and tradition (and a win!) will be the most memorable parts.
PLEASE don't make their first experience with Michigan at JerryWorld. You always remember your first game-- let theirs be at the Big House.
December 2nd, 2010 at 3:08 AM ^
My first game was against Northern Illinois in 05. Still got goosebumps walking into the Big House for the first time. If you really want to see a big game, maybe try to get tickets to the ND game next year. Its a rivalry, its the first night game ever, and should be a great game.
December 1st, 2010 at 10:03 PM ^
When they're young, they may get antsy and want to leave in the 3rd quarter..so take them to a lower-key game that Michigan will likely be winning comfortably (except for homecoming). Better to pick a game with a lower-key crowd and less obnoxious opposing fans...preferably a late non-conf game (not too hot, not too cold, usually). Get there early to see the pre-game stuff and before they stop selling programs..and do some research to find a good parking spot (again, get there early, or you'll be walking further). Good luck, and enjoy!
By the way, it never fails...every year I have to miss a game for some reason, and like to find a real U-M fan to take my tickets...send me an e-mail as we approach the season if you need tickets.
December 2nd, 2010 at 1:21 AM ^
Jt is right .games in sept. might be better. easy win, warm weather. set them up for the ohio st. game get them ready. when they are older it will mean more. show them what ann arbor is all about. If you need tickets let me know too. There is alot of games that I work for abc or btn, so i sell my tickets to friends and family. I sell them for face. I have 4 together and 2 together. let me know. would love for your family to see their first game in the big house.
December 1st, 2010 at 10:24 PM ^
Late September, early October games-I took my kids to games at this time of year for the first several game experiences in the Big House. Also, the non-conference games tend to be less expensive so you can afford great seats. I try to get section 22-24 about 20 to 40 rows up. This lets the kids see the players close up, but have enough altitude to the entire field. Nothing like reading D.Robinson on the back of #16's jersey.
Good luck, Go Blue
December 1st, 2010 at 10:26 PM ^
a easy choice THE GAME,they will fully understand it then.
December 1st, 2010 at 10:31 PM ^
Add another for the game in 2011. If you're gonna expose them to Michigan football, gotta do it right.
December 1st, 2010 at 10:32 PM ^
Although only Bowling Green the look on my 8 and 9 year old Daughter's faces as they walked into the Big House for the first time will live with me forever.
December 1st, 2010 at 10:38 PM ^
The Game. The Game. The Game.
December 1st, 2010 at 11:00 PM ^
I went to my first game at the Big House this year (opening day, woo hoo!) and it was awesome. I live in Austin and went to JerryWorld last year when it opened to watch a Cowboys game. The Big House is a far better venue.
The only question would be first night game against ND or against OSU. Both good picks. Either way, your boys might learn some new fun words.
Good luck and have fun.
December 1st, 2010 at 11:05 PM ^
I would agree with those that say "make it a fun event." Warmer weather, fun crowd, blimpies, etc.
It is a long and expensive trip from Seattle. So... I am going to Seattle this summer to climb Rainier - hopefully with my oldest son. Help me with some arrangements, and I will give you my four tickets to one of the games.
Section 36, Row 28, Seats 11-14
Let me know...
December 2nd, 2010 at 12:09 AM ^
Ive never climbed rainier before but I have lots of friends that have. I would be more than willing to help out.
shoot me an email
December 2nd, 2010 at 1:39 PM ^
I will email!
December 1st, 2010 at 11:23 PM ^
The first Michigan game I can remember came at age 7 when we came out to a late Oct game. I don't remember the team we played, I don't remember a lot beyond the fact IT WAS FUCKING COLD.
The first game I have fond memories of was a ND home game. Great crowd, early in the year so it's warm and the first game everyone gets really pumped for. I'd say you should go for that. It's early in the year so people aren't depressed yet (if we're still have defensive trouble next year a lot of us could be suicidal come tOSU and that stadium could be red like the last home game), the weather is nice and the stadium is rocking because we hate the Domers.
Save the tOSU games for the teen years when the kids have a little more maturity and willingness to freeze on a cold piece of metal.
December 1st, 2010 at 11:43 PM ^
Get there early so you can see the first ( UM ) touchdown, since we may already be up 2 scores while you're waiting in line to get in. Hopefully it will get silly soon and it will be "a rollicking crew" before halftime.
December 1st, 2010 at 11:54 PM ^
If it's their first game they definitely need to experience the big house it gives me chills everytime I walk into the stadium. Osu game would be the perfect game or the first night game against nd
December 2nd, 2010 at 12:06 AM ^
i would love to come to an earlier game. The hard part is that we have Pee-Wee football. Games typically go to about Halloween. If I wasn't the head coach and my son wasn't the QB i could make the exception.
December 2nd, 2010 at 12:46 AM ^
How about a night game vs. Notre Dame? Winnable too.
December 2nd, 2010 at 12:47 AM ^
As far as getting them an experience with tradition, The Game is the way to go. That being said, I think the folks above have good points about taking them to a non-conference game in september (though you know your kids and whether those points are applicable to them). The Alabama game would be fun, but I think in the end you need to get them to the Big House!
December 2nd, 2010 at 12:48 AM ^
Notre Dame 2011. A game we should probably win (this is important for youngsters, then they'll make you take them every year). The weather will be a lot nicer. And of course a first time night game experience for everyone, why not be part of it!
December 2nd, 2010 at 12:49 AM ^
If your schedule allows, bring them for the ND game. First night game so it should be a great crowd, and by the looks of it we will probably need a late touchdown to win.
If not, then you have to go with The Game.
December 2nd, 2010 at 1:18 AM ^
Not to throw a wrench in your plans, but have you considered ND next year? After all it is the first night game in the Big House against another hated rival.
December 2nd, 2010 at 2:07 AM ^
I was also thinking ND would be good. They are hated, though not The Game, and we will most likely beat them. Plus the first night game would be really cool and it would give you the day to explore Ann Arbor with them. However, being kids, they might be too tired at night and end up passing out.
Not sure if money is a big deal either but I am guessing that some of the games that have been mentioned could be fairly expensive to get 3 tickets together. ND being the first night game and OSU being OSU. Plus Bama in 2012 will just be nuts.
Honestly, I think no matter what game you bring them to it will be a day to remember the rest of their lives. I still remember my dad taking me to my first UofM game.
Also, taking them to a few smaller games first (non-UM) might be good because it will give them something to compare to when they step into the Big House.
December 2nd, 2010 at 7:42 AM ^
either for tOSU or the ND night game.
Some of my most cherished memories are in that stadium with my Dad.
Regardless, have a great time with your boys.
December 2nd, 2010 at 9:28 AM ^
early season game when they can run around on the golf course - those are great memories. save the osu tickets for graduation or wedding gifts or something big, keep that as forbidden fruit.
December 2nd, 2010 at 9:55 AM ^
that would do anything to go to the OSU game. He maybe 9 but he fully understands what the game is all about, more the some adults! OSU is the game to see. Enjoy your time with them either way. Maybe someday I'll get him there.