 Judges Forever
Everybody talks about them, yet many of them have no idea who they are. Unknown people's fame is spreading around the city. It's is not completely “notoriety,” it is just a rumor because reality stands behind the rumor. Actually rumor is very familiar to “celebrities.” Place, where they come from, was structured on rumors by strangers.
They are called the “Judges.” Not so many people see them while they are judging. Every player is part of the village and citizens share lots of things with these guys. However, as a whole team, they are strangers.
I have been proud of the Judges before I met them. One day I was looking for the Giants' Super Bowl match. I realized then that I have my own team to support, and I do not have to look for transatlantic targets. I received a message that invited me to the meeting of Judges Student Group. It was a sign for me.
I felt nervous on the day of the meeting just because being in a place full of strangers is tough for me. Plus, I got a sense of prejudice about the guys. It was a prejudice I've tried to break down for years around the campus, between athletes and academics. After the meeting I felt unexpectedly comfortable and happy. Suddenly a feeling was poking me to do something for the group and team. As a result, between the first and second meeting I went to see them in action.
It was the last match of group qualifications. The opponent was the other notorious team of Ankara, “the Red Deers.” The windy and overcast weekend saw a league game in Beytepe. Two quarters, one touchdown, one injury and wind after, the match and I parted ways.
Football (soccer) is always entertaining for me. Watching Argentina - Brazil, Boca - River and any Beşiktaş match is “priceless.” However, the love of football has clearly decreased year by year. So I tried to find another football (American) to help me get over the "soccer" frustration. We all see legendary and unbelievable last quarter performances in Hollywood films. Genius offense tactics and great passes earn touchdowns at the last minute. We also know these just happen in the NFL. However it does not mean beyond the NFL and films, it is a boring Sunday activity. I love this sport.
Many years ago, a venerable member of the team said: “once Judges, always Judges.” You feel the passion of football, the Judges, the pride of representing your school and the fun of the challenge. And yes he was right, once a Judge, always a Judge.
BY ÖMER CANBEK ÖNER (CTE/IV)
oner_o@ug.bilkent.edu.tr
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