It was a beautiful Saturday for tailgating among classmates, other friends and family.
Tony Rice was there early as usual for his fresh fruit. He posed for pictures and signed a few autographs. He returned later for more fruit. He spoke to George Scanlon on the cell for awhile, possibly seeking career advice.
Joe and Jennifer Montana sought refuge inside our tent for maybe 20 minutes. I got a first-hand taste of aggressive amateur “paparazzi-ism” as I felt responsible as the host to shield them and politely inform people that Joe does not sign nor take pictures—especially during a relaxing social event where he and his wife are simply trying to meet friends, relax, enjoy the afternoon and watch their son and the Fighting Irish.
Joe and Jennifer tried to keep a low profile under our tent, but that was understandably difficult.
All Joe wanted to do was tailgate with classmates and friends. And Jennifer was anxious to see son Nate play later that day. Once we set the ground rules among attendees and gawkers—no intrusive pictures or insistence upon autographs—J & J could relax and enjoy the camaraderie and hospitality.
For the record, we know Joe as one of the greatest and most successful college and NFL football players ever. But I will affirm that he is also married to a beautiful, gracious, genuine and very warm woman. (And I think Jennifer liked my fresh haircut from Armando’s).
I cannot add to everything else that has been said or written about the ND football team’s performance on Saturday, other than we were better in many facets from last year, performed very well for our opener and this is a great start to the Brian Kelly era.
I never know what a football weekend may bring. I simply “let the game come to me”. Then, I report what I see and know.
Congrats to the 1-0 Fighting Irish.
Out until next week versus Mee-chee-gan.
Abe