Connecting Over the Game: How Football Brings Us Closer

It’s Super Bowl Sunday, and for many, it’s about more than just football. It’s about connection—gathering with friends and family, sharing snacks, and shouting at the TV together. For me, football has always been a reminder of the quiet moments of connection I shared with my dad.

As a kid, I didn’t just watch football; I lived it. I collected football cards and spent hours flipping through them, memorizing player stats and marveling at the designs. One Christmas, my brother gave me one of the most cherished gifts I’ve ever received—a wooden holder he had made just for my cards at school. On the back, I painted a Chicago Bears helmet, a little nod to my favorite team. That holder wasn’t just a way to organize my collection; it was a symbol of love and connection—a thoughtful gesture from my brother that meant the world to me.

But my love for football started long before the cards or the handmade holder. It began with my dad. Football was his thing, and I wanted to be a part of it. So, I’d sit quietly next to him during games, watching and listening. If I didn’t talk too much, he would explain the plays, the rules, and what was happening on the field. Those moments weren’t just about the game; they were about the connection. It was a way for me to be close to him, to understand a piece of his world.

While I connected with my dad over football, my mom had a different tradition during the Super Bowl. She would go shopping with her friends, a yearly ritual that brought her joy. It was her way of staying connected—sharing laughs and stories while the rest of us were glued to the TV. Connection looks different for everyone, and that’s the beauty of it.

Listening: The Heart of Connection

What struck me about those moments with my dad wasn’t just the game; it was how listening created space for connection. When I listened to him explain football, I wasn’t just learning about touchdowns and penalties; I was learning about him. And when he saw that I was genuinely interested, he opened up more. Listening has that effect. It builds bridges, strengthens bonds, and creates shared experiences.

The Super Bowl isn’t just a sporting event; it’s a cultural phenomenon that brings people together. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or someone who only tunes in for the commercials, the game offers an opportunity to connect. But connection doesn’t just happen—it requires presence, attention, and a willingness to listen.

Finding Your Own “Football”

For me, football was the key to connecting with my dad. But connection looks different for everyone. It might be cooking with a loved one, playing board games, or simply sitting together in comfortable silence. The activity itself is secondary to the intention behind it.

Think about the people in your life. What are the things they love, and how can you show up for them in those spaces? Maybe your child loves drawing, or your partner has a passion for hiking. By stepping into their world, even for a little while, you’re telling them, “I see you. I value you. I want to understand you.”

The Role of Listening in Relationships

Listening isn’t just about hearing words; it’s about understanding the emotions and intentions behind them. When my dad explained football to me, it wasn’t just about the game. It was his way of sharing a piece of himself, and my listening was a way of saying, “I care.”

In relationships, listening creates a foundation of trust and respect. It’s how we show others that their thoughts and feelings matter. It’s also how we learn to navigate differences, celebrate successes, and offer support during challenges.

Super Bowl Sunday: A Chance to Connect

As you gather with friends and family to watch the game, consider how you can use the day as an opportunity for connection. Whether you’re swapping predictions about who will win, laughing at the commercials, or sharing your favorite game-day snacks, there’s magic in those shared moments.

Pay attention to the people around you. Are they sharing something about themselves in the way they cheer for their team or talk about their favorite players? Are there opportunities to listen more deeply and connect on a new level?

For Those Feeling Disconnected

Not everyone has a full house or a family tradition to turn to on Super Bowl Sunday. If you’re feeling lonely or disconnected, know that you’re not alone. Life’s challenges can sometimes leave us feeling isolated, even during events meant to bring people together.

If that’s where you are today, consider reaching out. Whether it’s to a trusted friend, a family member, or even a HOLD professional listener, connection is always possible. Sometimes, we just need someone to hold space for us and truly hear what’s on our hearts. If you’re looking for that kind of support, HOLD is here for you. Our professional listeners are ready to help you feel heard and understood. You can learn more and book an appointment here.

Cherishing the Moments That Matter

Looking back, my love for football wasn’t really about the game itself. It was about the relationships it nurtured—the quiet moments with my dad, the thoughtful gift from my brother, the memories that still make me smile. Those moments taught me that connection isn’t about grand gestures; it’s about showing up, being present, and listening with an open heart.

As the Super Bowl kicks off today, remember that connection is the ultimate goal. Whether you’re celebrating a touchdown, debating a call, or simply enjoying the company of those around you, take a moment to listen and be present. Those are the moments that matter most.