Editor’s note: Amanda Lawson is a lifelong Green Bay Packers fan who is getting into baseball for the first time this year. After much deliberation and counsel, Amanda settled on the Minnesota Twins as her team. With “Beginning Baseball” Amanda is documenting her first season of baseball fandom.
It’s finally here.
I have been waiting for the opportunity to watch the Twins play at home since I started following them earlier this year.
My friend and fellow Twins fan, Dawn, was kind enough to welcome me to Twins fandom with a ticket to the July 2nd game. After receiving the ticket, I have had this weekend circled, starred, and bolded on my calendar. Because the past week of Twins baseball has been a rollercoaster ride, I am going to make this a short, light post regarding my expectations for this weekend’s experience.
Fireworks
Really? Yes. Really. I love fireworks. It’s Fourth of July weekend. I have discovered that you can’t get more patriotic than fireworks and baseball. According to one of my Twitter followers, I will see fireworks during the National Anthem. Perfect.
Fan Bonding
In Iowa, I don’t come across many Twins fans. Actually, I am 99.9% sure I am the only Twins fan in Dubuque. I rely on my friends who are fans, Twitter followers, and media big wigs to develop that sports convo regarding our favorite baseball team. You know when you talk about the players, analyze the rest of the season, reminisce about past seasons, discuss the history of Minnesota’s greatest players…I can’t do that here. Heck, they play the Yankees on TV before they play the Twins.
I am excited to surround myself with fans that are passionate not only for their beloved Twins but also for the game of baseball. As a beginner, I want to immerse myself in the culture of being a Twins fan. I find it important to learn from the individuals who take the time to understand what’s going on within their team’s organization, as well as what’s happening in the league. I look forward to questioning some die-hard fans and learning from the most dedicated individuals that follow the team.
Twins Win
Like I said before, this hasn’t been the easiest week of Twins baseball. A horrendous game against the Dodgers on Monday following being swept up by the Brewers last weekend was enough to put any fan in a mild depression.
Now the Twins face the rival Brewers again this weekend. Milwaukee is leading the NL Central and are looking hot right now, so the Twins have to come into the series strong. And this time, I have Brewer friends who will be at the game. It would be really nice if I didn’t have to listen to them rub in my face that I chose the “wrong” team to follow.
Road trip and fun in Twinkie Town starts today! I will recap my first Twins game experience with you next week. Have a fun and safe Fourth of July weekend!
About Amanda Lawson
