What's Happening?
Three lifelong football fans, Don Crisman, Gregory Eaton, and Tom Henschel, are attending what might be their last Super Bowl together. These octogenarians are the only remaining members of the 'never missed a Super Bowl' club, having attended every game since the first in 1967. This year's game, featuring the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots, is being held at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California. Crisman, a dedicated Patriots fan, is attending with his daughter, Susan Metevier, and acknowledges that this will likely be his final Super Bowl due to advancing age and mobility issues. Henschel, who has been slowed by a stroke, shares similar sentiments. Eaton, who still runs a business in Detroit, plans to continue attending as long as he is physically
able. The trio has scaled back their Super Bowl trips over the years, focusing more on the game itself rather than the surrounding festivities.
Why It's Important?
The story of these three fans highlights the deep personal connections and traditions that sports can foster over decades. Their commitment to attending every Super Bowl underscores the cultural significance of the event in American society. As the group faces the reality of aging, it reflects broader themes of legacy and the passage of time. The Super Bowl, a major cultural and economic event, draws millions of viewers and generates significant revenue, but for these fans, it represents a lifetime of memories and friendships. Their story also touches on the increasing commercialization of the event, with costs rising to the point where attending the game has become a significant financial commitment.
What's Next?
As Crisman and Henschel likely attend their final Super Bowl, the 'never missed a Super Bowl' club continues to shrink. This marks a poignant moment for the fans and their families, who have supported their tradition over the years. The future of this exclusive club is uncertain, as younger generations may not have the same opportunity or inclination to maintain such a streak. The story may inspire other fans to reflect on their own sports traditions and the role these events play in their lives. Meanwhile, the Super Bowl will continue to evolve, potentially becoming even more commercialized and expensive, which could impact attendance and the fan experience.
