We parked at the Civic with intention on riding the KAT bus. Met some really great Vols fans and tailgated with them until time to head to Neyland. We all had a great time talking crap to each other, but it was all in fun.
Different story when we got to the stadium. I expected to hear a lot of stuff directed at the Gators but it went above and beyond that. I can't blame "youth and alcohol" for the way these people acted. Most of them were gray haired gentleman who should have more class.
We sat in section F, row 55. It was just my wife and I. Of course we cheered and clapped for the few good things that Florida pulled off - but we were respectful.
We had water thrown at us, people getting in my face and telling me I wasn't welcome there and telling me to GTFO. I just ignored them for the most part.
I know that every fan wants their team to win, but lets have some common decency. It's to that end that I promise that I will go out of my way to talk to Vols fans in the Swamp when I meet them and try to make them feel welcome. It's just a game.
I know that every fan base has their bad seeds - but these older gentleman were just beyond disrespectful.
Congratulations to the Vols, though. This wasn't a game won by a bad call or "cheating." They came out after halftime looking like a team I had never watched before. Enjoy your victory - hope to see you in the Swamp next year!