by jmccoy3 on February 11, 2022
Opinion
Sports are an essential part of cultures across the world. In America, football is the most popular sport. An abundance of resources are put into football programs across the country, all with the objective of winning a national championship. At the professional level, the National Football League harbors the same culture of working towards a championship, only itsbig game is quite literally the biggest spectacle in the western hemisphere: the Super Bowl. While tens of millions of Americans tune in, there is so much more behind this event that makes it such a staple of American culture and deserving of a federal holiday to the likes of the Fourth of July, Veterans Day, and Memorial Day.
The NFL itself is one of the most watched programs throughout its season. From September to February, no other sport receives the same attention as professional football. On Sundays, the only thing outperforming the NFL in ratings is God. Besides that, millions of Americans are putting a pause on life, gathering with friends and family, and watching seven hours of football. It is so big, there is an entire channel on television without commercials just so fans can get their fill of football. These are not ordinary fans, but fans who live and die by their teams, rooting like they have control over a game’s outcome. To watch the Super Bowl after months of dedication to the league is the culmination of all that time and energy put into the rollercoaster of emotions that come with being a fan.
What makes the Super Bowl different from any other football Sunday is the fact it brings the diehard football fans together with everyday friends and neighbors who might not care about football at all. People come together at Super Bowl parties all over that nation, and it might not even be for the game itself. There are the one-of-a-kind commercials that will not air anywhere else, the halftime show with high profile performers for a fifteen-minute concert, and the endless array of classic football food. Burgers, hot dogs, ribs, you name it. Even if someone does not watch the game or go to a Super Bowl party, they will still be subject to the constant media coverage of the big game. It is an unavoidable event in this country; therefore, it should get the recognition it deserves.
This country would have done a great service if the Super Bowl was declared a federal holiday. No matter who you are, where you are, or how much of a fan you are, the Super Bowl will be observed in some sort of capacity. This is not a matter of getting a free day off from school or work, but instead the recognition of one of America’s most unifying days of the year. The vast majority of Americans are spending time with loved ones and enjoying all the various elements of the Super Bowl. It brings the nation together for one day to celebrate the culmination of yet another football season. That is a difficult feat, especially in the current climate, and only furthers the significance of the game. Therefore, to have a day off every year to fully enjoy some unity and bonding with friends over the sport this country cherishes should not be a question. The Super Bowl as a federal holiday honors football and gives the nation at least one day to come together. That should be encouraged.