Thanks, Dad!
This week’s match preview takes on a different tone as both the Miami Dolphins and San Francisco 49ers find themselves on the brink of elimination, with playoff hopes looking slim.
The match-up stirs up personal memories for me, going back to January 1983 when I was almost 14.
That year, my dad let me stay up late to watch the Super Bowl. I was hooked from the opening kick, even though the team I rooted for – Miami – fell 27-17 to Washington.
Two years later, the Dolphins were back, facing off against my Dad’s team – the 49ers – in another Super Bowl. This time, San Francisco came out on top.
After the game, my dad reassured me: “Don’t worry, son. Marino will have them back every year. He’s phenomenal… there’s always next year.”
Those words stuck with me, even as the Dolphins have yet to return to the big stage, while the 49ers became regular contenders.
Super Bowl Sunday became our tradition, a day we eagerly anticipated and always dreamt of a Dolphins-49ers Super Bowl rematch.
It has been 21 years since we lost my Dad. He never got to meet his grandson, a passionate Dolphins fan just like me.
Now, my son lives and dies with every interception, fumble, or missed field goal. He keeps me updated on every transaction from his NFL feed, whether it is a big-name signing or a practice squad move – delivered with equal intensity.
The love for the game, passed down through generations, remains a cherished connection to my Dad and a bond I now share with my son.
So thanks Dad, I miss you mate and Merry Christmas.
