Introduction
Please allow this humble coal cracker from Pennsylvania to submit himself to be worthy of being labeled a Green Bay Packers fan. My name is Jon Knepper and I grew up in Lansford, Pennsylvania about 125 miles north of Philadelphia. I'm not as fortunate as most of you to be living in WI, but this doesn't diminish my Packer enthusiasm. Midwesterners are the friendliest most sincere people I have come across in my travels. These community qualities transcend throughout to the whole Packers organization.
My Life
Growing up, I saw Eagle fans curse, boo, throw batteries and beer bottles at fans, officials, players, and even Santa Claus. On Dec. 7, 1968 the Colts knocked the Pack out of the playoffs. With 12 minutes remaining in the game the fans gave the team a standing ovation. I asked my dad what's up? He simply said, "They have the greatest fans in the world." I wanted to belong to this following, so I researched their franchise history. In 33 years, I've only missed one game (via TV, radio internet or in person).
Highlights / Lowlights
My first visit to the Holy Land was Sept. 27, 1992 - Brett's first Packer start as they beat the Steelers 17-3. It was a little bit of heaven here on Earth. My house to Lambeau is exactly 950 miles and takes 18 hours. I proposed on the way home and now my wife knows more about football than any of my friends. Watching the Packers win either in person or on TV is always a high. Meeting the players, coaches, and team officials was a whole lot of fun. Seeing the Lombardi trophy glitter as Reggie ran around the Superdome raising it high above his head was the epitome of excitement, exhilaration and ecstasy. I've converted thousands of fans over the years. Thanks to Packer donations, I have created a massive fan base from managing companies Tutor Program over the past 20 years. Finally, the ultimate Packers gift was becoming a team owner with my one share of Green Bay Packers stock.
Packers Class
It's easy to be flying high after a Packers victory, but is extremely difficult to show any sign of life following a loss. Always keeping an optimistic look to next weeks game and meeting next weeks challenge in life has guided me throughout my life as a son, brother, husband and father. This Packers mentality has helped me obtain an Associate Degree in Electronics, BS in Computer Science, MS in Manufacturing Systems Engineering and three patents with AT&T Bell laboratories, while raising two wonderful children.
Conclusion
I've been fortunate to attend 30 Packers games covering a total of 110,000 miles both driving and flying. I know other teams have fans outside of their city; but not in the multitudes of the Packer faithful. For this reason, I thank the Wisconsin faithful for graciously welcoming all fans into their Green Bay Packers family. The Packers are indeed AMERICA'S TEAM!
Self nomination
|
