How A Tampa Patriots Fan Club Made Me Feel Back At Home
Finally! Football is back, and as a New England Patriots fan since birth, I had the awesome opportunity to DJ for the Tampa Patriots Fan Club’s watch party at the Southern Belle bar in Ybor City. As someone who was born and raised in Hartford, Connecticut, where being a Patriots fan is a way of life, this gig was more than just a party I was booked for, it was like being right back at my local bar back home where I would watch games.
The energy at Southern Belle was great, fans were decked out in Patriots gear and were waiting in anticipation for the game to start. The minute I walked in the bar it was decked out with Patriot mascot Pat Patriot, sections had Pats balloons and other decorations, and the fan club had a backdrop to take pictures in front of and merch available. Already it felt like it was going to be a great day for a Patriots win.
Being the DJ, I fueled excitement of football being back with classic stadium anthems raging from hip-hop, country, and classic rock anthems mixed with high energy songs to keep the energy up. Everyone at Southern Belle sang every word to Neil Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline,” & danced to Tommy Richman’s “Million Dollar Baby.” It was a festive group of fans, and at times I felt like I epitomized the vibe they would have gotten being at Gilette Stadium.
The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the Patriots’ victory. The cheers and high fives when the game was over felt good after many sports analysts had the Pats losing to Cincy. Confetti rained all over Southern Belle as if we won a Super Bowl.
Overall, DJing at the Tampa Patriots Fan Club’s watch party was a fun experience that made me feel a connection to my hometown again. I’m excited for this season and happy to have football back. Looking forward to the next one.
