If you ever want proof that love makes people do irrational things, look no further than the woman who agreed to marry an aspiring sports broadcaster in October.

Right in the heart of football season.

October 22, 2025 marks 37 years since my wife, Dawn, and I said “I do.” Somewhere between kickoff and postgame, we managed to build a life together — one that’s seen more than a few Friday nights spent under the lights, and more than a few anniversary dinners postponed because, well, “I’ve got a game.”

In the last few years, I’ve tried to do better about that. These days, I block the calendar for our anniversary weekend, no matter what games are on the schedule.

This year, we’re heading to Memphis — Beale Street, barbecue, blues, and a riverboat cruise on the mighty Mississippi. So don’t call me this weekend…

No headset. No call sheets. Just us.

She’s never been a sports fan — not even close — but she’s the one who’s cheered the loudest for my career. In fact, I might not have one if not for her. (Remind me to tell that story someday.)

She’s made more road trips with me than she probably ever wanted to, been to more ‘great sports venues’ that she could not care less about, sat through more postgame recaps than any human should, listened to me express all my insecurities (common broadcaster’s syndrome) and somehow still tells me she’s proud.

So, here’s to the woman who made me believe you can love the game and love the one who doesn’t care about it at all.

The best teammate I ever signed doesn’t wear a jersey — she wears patience, humor, and more understanding than I deserve.