An open letter to Bama fans

0Niki Doyle • 9th Dec 2008 • Driving me crazy

I am not a “Barner,” or a “cowturd,” or a “Barner flamer.” I am a graduate of Auburn University, a school that happens to be known for its outstanding agriculture programs, its nationally recognized school of architecture and its world-renowned fisheries program. I earned my degree. Some of you, usually the most outspoken of fans, did not even attend the university you so fervently root for.

I do not need my school’s football team to win to feel validated. I do not care if my Tigers lose; they played their best, and that is enough. I do not taunt you when my team wins and yours loses. Some of my fellow graduates and fans do, and for that, I am sorry.

I chose Auburn for a reason. When I walked onto the campus for the first time, I was greeted continuously. “War Eagle,” said the students. “War Eagle,” said the professors. “War Eagle,” said the bookstore clerk. They all encouraged me to join their family. I felt at home.

I am grateful that the University of Alabama graduates who work with me are kind, considerate people who carry themselves with dignity. So are my Alabama friends, who see the infamous rivalry and as a way to poke fun once in a while and nothing more. They love their school. They respect mine. That is the way it should be.

Do not toss around the word “class.” Those who claim others act without class are often the ones who lack it.

War Eagle (and Roll Tide),
Niki Doyle ’07