Guest blogger Brandon explains why he looks forward to the Clemson/Carolina game each year.
This time of year, I look forward to the holidays, spending time with my family and all the great things that come with it. But none of these compare to the anticipation of the big game.
See, I have a unique perspective on the rivalry that is South Carolina vs. Clemson. My Grandfather was a huge Clemson fan, my Father was a huge Clemson fan and I gladly follow in that tradition. I have watched hundreds of Clemson games on TV, been to a few dozen games in Death Valley, been to many bowl games and I read multiple websites every day soaking up any news I can about the tigers.
Nothing unique about being a fan, but there is a twist. I graduated from the University of South Carolina. Yes, a die-hard Clemson fan that went to USC.
I was accepted at both schools, but chose to go to South Carolina. For me it wasn’t allegiance to the football team or a campus that drove my decision. It was based on money.
I had to pay my own way through school so I focused on getting the best value I could from my education. I had family in West Columbia and couldn’t pass up the opportunity to save a few dollars by not paying rent. As well, I went to high school in New York, so I had to establish residency. That can be hard to do living on campus.
I still wore my orange on campus every Friday and supported the Tigers in any way I could. I had to sacrifice quite a bit being surrounded by Gamecock fans, but I grew to like and even become friends with some of them. I knew I had to make those sacrifices, but given my financial situation, it was the right decision. We all know the economy is weak and everyone is making sacrifices…what are some of the sacrifices you are making this holiday season?
