The Big Dance can be overwhelming, but at the West Side YMCA, the Vols have plenty of support.
“It’s a good time,” said Eric Freemon, who works there. “No two days are ever the same, but it’s a lot of fun.”
Eric has his hands full this week during the Y’s spring break camp.
Ana Sophia Marquez was there as a group of kids watched Tennessee win over Wright State in the first round of the NCAA tournament on Thursday.
“I like the players,” she said. “That they’re tall.”
March Madness brought out some strong emotions from the young fans.
“He was wide open, literally wide open,” yelled Calletano Rodriguez.
“You get a lot of energy out, you have the action,” he added. “It’s just for fun.”
“I like how they play, and what strategy they use,” said Brantley Abercrombie. “Like the way they trick players out.”
Watching the game here feels fitting as the Y has a deep connection to the sport.
“Basketball was actually invented by James Naismith in 1891 at a YMCA,” Freemon said. “So it’s cool to see it continue on and let us be a part of it now.”
It’s also a teaching moment for the kids.
“It’s all about good sportsmanship,” Rodriguez said. “I play football, and we always have good sportsmanship.”
Of course, it’s always better when the Vols win.
“Come on, Tennessee,” said Abercrombie.
