I am not sure why, I can't place my finger on it....but for some reason that article made me tear up.
The only thing in it I did not understand was the part about the 40 year old who was "too young to remember Bryant walking the sidelines."
I beg to differ. I am 31 and I remember three times watching him on the sidelines. I was far too young to care who he was or why it was important. All I knew is that I was there to root for the good guys in Crimson.
My father who took me to the game put his big hand on my shoulder and said,
"Son...I want you to look at that man over there on the sidelines."
"Which one dad?"
"The big one with the black and white hat on."
He then pointed to Coach Bryant. I followed the direction of his point and was able to pick the big man out. I remember he was striding the sidelines in a white collared shirt with black-grey slacks on. I remember even at that age being impressed by the manner with which he walked. Being four years old at the time though, I was more interested in Go-Bots.
"I see him dad. Who is that?"
"Son, that is Coach Bryant. I just want you to remember that you saw him."
"Yes sir."
I have never forgotten.
