Derek Fournier a.k.a. ‘OldSchool76’

A transplant to Florida as an infant, my father taught me at an early age to pull for your home team. In this case, that meant pulling for the Buccaneers as I turned 4 and they were formed. Many painful years followed, but each one started with the same excitement and hope for improvement. Sports have always been a topic near and dear to my heart. The spirit of competition, camaraderie, and desire to excel translate well into all aspects of life. I am a fan of all sports (minus baseball, though I respect the talent it takes to do some of the things they do) but my heart lies with Football (NFL) and Basketball (NCAA). I think I know everything (just ask my wife) so don’t be surprised to hear me pontificate as if informed by some other-worldly source.

I am a fan in all sense of the word. A story that conveys the level of depravity this entails goes back many years to my days in Seattle when, in a fix as DirectTV’s Sunday Ticket did not (and does not) include preseason games and no Internet coverage was available, I used my unlimited weekend calling to have my Mother leave the phone by the television in Florida so I could listen to the broadcast. Yes, I am that sick.

I am the proud father of one wonderful son, Nicholas a.k.a. 'Nicky Noodle' who I hope will grow up and become an NFL placekicker so that Mom and Dad can retire on his inflated salary!

I wish everyone could play as hard as guys like Chris Hovan.