Having lived in San Francisco for the past 7 years I wasn’t a huge baseball fan. Honestly, watching guys wearing oversized baggy pants hitting balls and then running around the bases is not my cup of tea.  I much prefer the sweaty, blood dripping, brief wearing men fighting in an octagon. However, I was always up for a ballpark dog, Cracker Jacks and sitting in the ballpark with beautiful views of the bay enjoying the ambiance, camaraderie and engaging in fan rituals.

It wasn’t until this past year that I really discovered the excitement and enthusiasm of the Orange and Black; I’m sure I’m not the only one. There’s something about the unpredictable, nail-biting plays and “shows” the Giants put on that keep drawing me back. Well, the Coors-Light and Club level seats don’t hurt either.

With the recent success of the Giants it’s hard not to be a fan while living in San Francisco. From the rally thongs and panda hats to the shoe polished beards, the motley team composed of unwanted step children earned their position in the World Series!

The success of the Giants has transformed San Francisco. The talk around the water cooler is nothing but the Giants, the people on public transportation are friendlier, and San Francisco monuments such as City Hall and Coit Tower are lit up in orange. Around town on game days fans are supporting their team from their “fear the beard” orange shirts to their heart throb Buster Posey jerseys.

As the Giants gain success, and the stakes rise, it’s sure to be even more fun rooting for our home team. It’s an emotional rollercoaster, but one I will gladly hop on.

Whether you are rooting for the Giants or the Rangers the World Series is set to be an unforgettable time here in San Francisco!

Go Giants!

-Jennifer Van Pelt