How has the Phils winning the World Series changed me? My 6-year-old son and I, for no reason at all, will just shout out "the Phillies won the World Series" . . . to anyone and everyone. It fixes a bad day at work, a bump on the little guy's head, a fight with his sister . . . Really just about anything. It's a great diversion from real life, and makes me smile just remembering September, through the playoffs, and the craziest Halloween ever, anywhere.
Fan's view of Phillies in 2009
Ray Markey
Haddon Heights, N.J.
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It hasn't changed my love of the team, nor has it changed the fact that I am critical of their mistakes. That will always be part of being a Phillies fan (and a Philadelphia sports fan more broadly) - we love the teams but will be critical when they make mistakes. Especially those that involve a lack of effort or lame excuses. What has changed, however is the pride that I feel for the team. From where they were [remember the nice stretch from '84-'92 and '94-'00] to today has just been amazing. The fact that I, and many others, refused to jump to a team that was winning more and in fashion (a la those Yankees and Red Sox fans who have no roots in those areas) and stood by the Phillies also makes a fan feel good. It validates the city and the loyal fans.
Chris Janeczko
Haddon Heights, N.J.
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In my opinion, if someone screws up in any situation ... striking out with runners in scoring position, making an error in the field or giving up five runs in an inning ... They are going to get booed. They're the champs! The expectations are even higher now. They reached the ultimate goal and now we want that goal met this year again, 2010, 2011, 2012, etc., etc. It's not a baseball term, but "no easy buckets." No slacking. They have to set an example and play hard every night. I want a repeat and I'll let them know if they aren't playing like the WORLD CHAMPS that they are!"
Cole Boyce Yeager
Langhorne
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I used to watch the Yankees and the Patriots and all those other multiple-title teams and say "just give me one damn title. that's it." Well, I was wrong. I want as many as they can get while their nucleus is still together! Two titles in 3 years or 3 in 5 - let's make it happen!
Marshall Orsini
Des Moines, Iowa