If I watch a ballgame, I get into it like I was playing.

I guess the same goes for a soccer game too.

I am going to yell and scream for my team whatever the game. I both love and dislike close games, especially if my team is playing. The same goes for even the kids’ games.

My granddaughter Olivia plays basketball for St. Agnes in Louisville. I was amazed at how she plays basketball as well as she sings and dances.

I found myself getting into her game and being so happy when they won.

I love the Upward basketball program at Central Baptist Church each year which gives kids the opportunity to play basketball.

I am sure the kids may envision every game the same as if they were playing in Rupp Arena.

They also learn sportsmanship, how to treat others in life and improve their basketball skills all at the same time. It is a great program.

While watching my grandson Hayden playing basketball, I was amazed at how much his skills had improved through this Upward program. I began yelling for his team to make baskets. When he did, I was elated.

I think his team won by only two or four points and I probably yelled louder than anyone else at the game. Maybe I was the one thinking I was in Rupp Arena.

I had to laugh to myself how involved I got into that game even though it was just a group of junior high kids on the floor.

As happy as I was for my grandson’s team, I felt sorry for the other side who had tried so hard and lost. I watched their sad little faces when I went to my car.

However, I think this program can help the kids learn how to handle defeat in life.

Then there was the University of Kentucky and Florida game. Now, I really, really, get into any Kentucky games. I do a lot of cheering for my team to GO BIG BLUE! I help the cheerleaders out all I can.

If you do not believe me, walk past my house on game day.

I also try to help coach John Calipari out and tell him when to call a time out or who not to take out of the game. I also tend to let the referees know if they made a right call or not.

I have been known to either walk away from a game if they have gone ahead while I have taken a break since I think I am bad luck.

I have also stayed put once I have started watching and the Cats go ahead. I do go a little crazy when it comes to the Kentucky Wildcats.

This past Saturday I was so happy P.J. Washington got after his teammates, gave them a talking to and got them motivated.

They were not listening to my coaching even though I was yelling loud enough they should have heard me in Florida.

I wondered how many other Kentucky homes get as involved.

I have often thought how happy I am to have the UK Wildcats as my favorite team since they have winning records every year.

There are times I have felt as dejected as a child would after we lose a big game. I have honestly tried this year not to get as involved in the sports as much as I have in years past to no avail.

I still feel like I played right along with the team on some occasions.

This past week I thought about Don and Carlene Burkhead and Charlie and Allene Eury and could not imagine their anxiety leading up to the Super Bowl.

I also could not imagine what it would be like for me knowing my grandchild would play in the biggest football game of the year.

The thought of knowing the world would be watching my grandson play would probably leave me speechless.

I sure could not begin to imagine the pride they must have to have seen their grandson, Rex Burkhead on the cover of Sports Illustrated this past week.

I felt pride being able to say I graduated with the Burkheads and went to church with the Eurys.

I even felt pride that our son Keith played football at Clark County with Rex’s dad, Rick, and knowing that Rex had ties to Clark County.

I am happy Rex worked so hard to achieve the goals that he has reached in his football career.

I am sure his talent alone was not what got him to the point where he is now, but he’s not giving up on his dream and lots of hard work. He is now living out his dream.

His grandmother Carlean shared the Sports Illustrated cover with Rex’s photo on Facebook.

As most of you know, the Patriots won their sixth Super Bowl. I am feeling proud to see a man who had deep Winchester roots was on that team.

Rex, our town is so proud of you.

We all know you had good grandparents and good parents who helped you to get where you are today, and your hard work paid off.

Who knows what athlete is being formed in our little town of Winchester today?

Sue Staton is a Clark County native who grew up in the Kiddville area. She is a wife, mother and grandmother who is active in her church, First United Methodist Church, and her homemakers group, Towne and Country Homemakers.