I loved that old ABC Wide World of Sports show that used "The thrill of victory, the agony of defeat" as its mantra. I can still see that guy go off the ski jump ramp in a tangle of limbs, ski's and poles.

I got to thinking about the emotions a sports fan goes through before, during, and after a game (whatever sport).

TV and newspapers hype up the upcoming game to no end. It's supposed to encourage one to watch the game, perhaps in person. It's to increase ones interest and enthusiasm.

For three and a half hours Saturday, I was on a high as I watched Purdue whip Ohio State (football). Suddenly, with 3 seconds to go, a "hail Mary" passed turned things around, and Purdue snatched defeat from the jaws of victory. I noted the change in my emotions, from exhilaration to depression. It took me several hours to recover.

For this reason alone, I seldom get emotionally involved in watching any ballgame. But it's difficult to suppress feelings. And it was a roller coaster of emotions over the weekend. My IU football team lost 31-30, last second. Bummer. But the Indy Colts won a thriller! And the women's pro basketball team (Fever) won the WNBA championship!

I guess that's why we Americans--even World wide--enjoy sports so much. We identify with teams and players in a bizarre way, like they're part of our family somehow. We crave that special feeling of winning--a feel good sensation. Instant gratification. Arms in the air shouting YES, YES, YES!

AS for losing, well, we get over it quickly. We rationalize reasons for the loss, and move on, eagerly anticipating the next game--and victory! Agonies and thrills.