Whether or not you actively follow American Football, the Superbowl is an event that dominates the sporting world each year. Whether it’s because you’re a music fan eager for the half time show or a movie buff waiting for the newest trailers in the adverts, it will appeal to you.

This is the first year that I have taken the time out to actually sit and watch it. This year the game was between the Baltimore Ravens and San Francisco 49ers, and other than bracing myself for a long night, I didn’t really have any other expectations. I can’t tell you anything about the rules of American football, I can’t tell you I’m any more informed about the game as a sport. I can totally see why it draws fans in though. At the start of the game, between the ‘Ravens’ and the ’49ers’ I had no allegiance or preference. I was very much led by the people in the bar I was with, the majority of them wanting the Ravens to win. It was great, the atmosphere of the bar I was in was pretty chilled as the win for the Ravens just kept increasing right up until half time.

I’ve always enjoyed watching aggressive things, whether it’s films or sport, so the Superbowl really appealed to me. The only problem is, is that I often feel what I watch. It wasn’t too long before my view of the game got heated. After the blackout at the stadium, different theories as to what had happened were being discussed. The phrase ‘conspiracy theory’ was also suggested; this suggestion led me down my long dark path for the rest of the game. The 49ers then came out fighting and I became desperate for them to win, mainly because of optimistic attitude rather than it being a conspiracy theory that would feed someones wallet.

I love an underdog. I love it even more when nobody wants the underdog to be a winner. I think that’s what really made the Superbowl a great event for me. I don’t remember the last time I felt that passionate about something or felt driven wild over a thirst for victory. The Superbowl had my adrenaline raised and my stomach tensed. I don’t even follow the game, so I can’t imagine how exhilarating the rush is for actual fans. Increasingly over the past year or so, I’ve really enjoyed watching sports. It causes not only a slight amount of identification, but a momentarily blinding excitement. The skill that athletes also put in and maintain is admirable on a whole other level. The Superbowl showed me yet another reason why sport should be celebrated.

Unfortunately, (or fortunately enough to disprove beliefs of a consipracy theory) San Francisco didn’t win. I was explicitly outraged for all of ten minutes over their loss. It means nothing to me now; nor will it to anyone who isn’t a fan; watching the Superbowl has been one of my favourite nights out though. Even if you don’t think it’s your thing, you should check the game out. I promise it will grip you.