Ellington

Football has always been a way for my father and me to bond. When I played in high school, my father would help me keep in shape and work with me to get better.

I was not talented enough to play after high school, but still football has kept my dad and me together. When we watched games on Saturday or Sunday, it would give us a chance to talk as well.

The common bond grew strong. When I lived in Hattiesburg, we would call each other just to talk football. Even though I was an hour from home, I felt like Dad was only a room away.

Now, when my dad calls me to talk football, he usually includes some words of wisdom about life. Sometimes, I think Dad calls just to figure out my picks for the JFP "Pro Football Pick 'Em," but it is still good to talk with him.

Super Bowl Sunday has been the one football day we always get together early and spend time together. This year will be no different.

I will arrive at some point during the pregame show. Dad and I will talk about the game and break down nearly every possible scenario. We will also talk about how life is treating us, and I know Dad will lend an ear if I need to talk about more than sports.

The game is special as well because my mom will cook all the terrible food she discourages (but we love) throughout the year. Dinner will feature chicken wings, buffalo chicken tenders, french fries, cheese sticks and more. Still, every now and then, Mom will make us eat right on Super Sunday. And regardless, Dad and I will snack on leftovers during the game.

If we are lucky, Mom and other family members will join us. But even with other people in the room, Dad and I still have that connection to the men on the screen.

If I care about who wins or loses the game going in, after it is over I won't really care how it all turned out. Just the time spent with Dad is better than the game could ever be.

Football brought my father and me together and has kept us close. One day, when my father has passed, these treasured memories will be even dearer to me—our time spent talking and watching games together.

This year, as you get together to party for the big game, try to find the one thing you can enjoy with your family.

See you Sunday, Dad.