This was my eleventh year attending the NFL Draft in New York. I love attending every year not only because I get to see the top prospects get selected, but that I am one of the few women who attend and I have gotten the privilege to speak with NFL executives about Women’s Initiatives. I have even had a breakfast with NFL commissioner Roger Goodell. The NFL does a good job in trying to make the experience very fan-friendly.
On the first night of the draft which is now on a Thursday, be prepared to stand in line at Radio City Music Hall. The crowd is rowdy to be there and the media is looking for fans to talk to. The best part is that while in line you run into some interesting fans representing team from all of the country, it is so great to see them come and support their teams. I am a Chiefs fan and everyone always finds that interesting. The first question they ask is are you from there, when I saw no that I grew up in Brooklyn; they are left with a dumbfounded look on their faces. It is not until I saw that I grew up a 49ers fan, they the moment of connections comes that when Legendary Quarterback Joe Montana went to Kansas City I went with him.
Being in the building with over 4,000 people is quite exciting. You listen as the picks are made and the reaction of the fans is priceless. They either up and down with excitement or boo the pick. The first Day is always the best day.
On Friday we have to return for the next rounds. It is less crazy than the media hype of the first day of the draft, but just as much fun. In these rounds you can see some gems get drafted and wonder what their careers are going to turn out to be.
Saturday is Die Hard Day. Die Hard Fans have special passes that we get to use every year, as long as we stay all day Saturday and turn in our Die Hard Card. They started out as a large group but we have dwindled down quite a bit over the year. Some Die Hard Fans joke that they are going to will there card to their families. If you do not stay you lose your privilege. One of the keys to this day is that the NFL sets out food for you and you eat all you want.
From the first to the last pick, I endured the weekend in Radio City. If you have a bucket list as an NFL fan I highly recommend attending the NFL Draft.
I bet it is so much fun to be surrounded by all of the excitement of an NFL Draft. Very cool. I like watching it on TV, but being there in person sounds waaaay better.