It's That Time of Year Again . . .

Ah, early September! The time of year where the the leaves change color, Chicago heat becomes slightly less stultifying, and the construction season begins a final push towards completion before the onset of snowfall. It is a time of new beginnings. In my case, the beginnings of two things I have been anticipating eagerly: The academic year and football season.

I started back at DePaul University this past Thursday, returning for another go around in First Year Writing. There were the typical first day butterflies (I’m not sure why; the probability that I’d screw up reading the syllabus was pretty low) but once in front of the class I found footing quickly. I have a technologically capable classroom this term, so I’m going to incorporate more Powerpoint and AV presentations. I’ll also use Blackboard a bit more, to keep myself trying new things. As near as I can tell I’ve got diligent students, and it was good to be back regardless. These ten weeks of not teaching were my longest stretch in the past half-decade—so I’m looking forward to mixing it up.

I’m also looking forward to football season! I’d like to depart from literary themes to express my joy at the return of this excellent sport. I love how football can be incredibly complicated or incredibly simple depending on my mood. I love the shifting storylines, and I even love the pageantry. One of my favorite autumn rituals involves watching football and grading—a ritual I begin again this Sunday. I don’t expect great things from my hometown Rams this year (sorry folks!) but I’ll certainly make a SuperBowl prediction: this year’s NFL season will come down to a San Diego Chargers win over the Chicago Bears . . . and remember I’m in Chicago and saying that!

By the way, for the curious my fantasy team this year (yes, I do that too) includes Vince Young, Willie Parker, Laurence Maroney, Terrell Owens (I know) Hines Ward, Vernon Davis, and the Ravens Defense. Its a good crew, overall, but my opponent for the week has Reggie Wayne—so as of last night’s blowout I am down by almost thirty points even before the first Sunday of action.

As with the challenges of a new school year, I say bring it on.

Posted by Alan Ackmann - Sep 7, 02:31 PM.
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1 Comments for It's That Time of Year Again . . .

  1. Posted by Kimberly

    Long live the Superbears! My doomed fantasy football team had some trouble fielding enough baskets to make it to the fake Superbowl last year, but StevO is confidant that they will eventually make a comeback. Clark did, however, win the cutest mascot ever hands down!

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