The time I went to the West Coast Conference and had the time of my life.

On March 6, 2014, the West Coast Conference Basketball Championship came to the Orleans Arena right here in my very own town of  Las Vegas.  Which means that my beloved Cougars came right along with it.  It just so happens that the Orleans Arena is about 2 miles from my house.  Now how could my team be that close and me not be there?  There was no good reason not to go, other than the rather high price for admission.  Despite the cost, I have no regrets about going.  In fact quite the opposite,  if you factor the joy and merriment I experienced over the 5 day tournament, I got more than my money's worth.  As part of the package deal, I had tickets to all 16 games that took place over the weekend.

In the interest of full disclosure, let me say that first and foremost I am a football fan.  It is by far my favorite sport, but because of the ability to watch most of the BYU basketball games on BYU tv, I grew to love these players this season, as well as gain a greater appreciation for the sport of basketball.  

I went to the first men's game on Thursday night even though BYU was not playing.  The winner of this game would play BYU on Saturday, so it was good to scout out the competition.  Of course I was wearing a BYU shirt, because pretty much 9 days out of 10, that is what I am wearing.  When I first walked into the arena, with in 2 minutes someone yelled out to me "Go Cougars!"  At first this caught me off guard.  I walk around Vegas wearing a BYU shirt ALL the time and no one every says anything.  I walked around for a few more minutes and at least 3 other people called out those wonderful words.  Not having anyone else to attend with, I wondered if it would be any fun.  But here is the thing, when you are a Cougar, you are never alone.  I was truly with my people and it was awesome.

After wondering around, I found an empty seat by a large group of men all wearing BYU blue.  I ended up visiting with them for much of the game.  They were a family group who come every year as a tradition.  Turns out one of the guys was graduating from BYU this spring in Accounting, just like I did.  I had fun visiting with them and made some new friends.

After the game, I tried going up to the third floor to check out the set for BYU Sports Nation.  This is a sports radio show that I listen to daily.  And starting with this tournament, they were broadcasting on BYU tv  as well.  I was determined to meet Spencer Linton and Jarom Jordan.  Unfortunately, a senior citizen security guard prevented me from entering the level where they do the broadcasts.  I gave up, determined to try again another day.

On Friday I went to watch the BYU women's team play.  Again I just sat in a random seat near some other BYU Fans.  During half time I had a wonderful talk with a kind lady who noticed that I was sitting alone.  She came over and introduced herself and just visited with me for a few minutes.  Another kindred Cougar spirit.  The lady Cougs played well and won the game.  It was amazing to watch Jenifer Hamson play in person.  You really don't appreciate how tall she is when watching on TV.

Some excitement happened when a distinguished man wearing a suit came in and sat right behind me.  When I turned around and looked, it was none other than Elder Todd D Christofferson, of the Twelve Apostles.  His wife is a huge fan and cheered almost as loud as I did. Of course, I could not resit the chance to take a selfie with him in the background.  After the game I chatted with he and his wife for a few minutes.  Much to my surprise, there were no other people around us.

When the game was over, I saw Spencer Linton finishing up his broadcast down on the floor.  All of the arena security guards were trying to get the place emptied so they could let people with tickets back in.  Instead of going up to the top and exiting like they directed me to, I went sideways and managed to avoid any of them forcing me to leave.  Just as I was about to step onto the floor and call out to Spencer, a guard rushed over to me and told me I was not allowed to be there.  Curses, foiled again.  Again, feeling dejected I acquiesced and left.

Not yet ready to leave the party, I lingered with the other fans.  Just outside the arena I ran into Kevin Worthen, who is a Vice President for BYU.  I recognized him because of this video:

Earlier when I walked into the arena, he and his family were just in front of me.  I kept thinking that I recognized him, and finally it hit me that he was in this video with the President of BYU, President Samuelson, and Tom Holmoe, the Athletic Director.  So when I saw him again, I spoke to him and mentioned how much I enjoyed the video.  He was very gracious if somewhat disturbed at my recognition.   He introduced me to his wife Peggy and the rest of his family, and we visited  for a minute about my love for all things BYU.  They were on their way to Applebees and I gave them directions as it was near my house.  Little did I know that just a few days later, it would be announce that he was the next President of BYU.  My only regret is that I didn't ask him for a picture.  That is so unlike me and I am sure it will be a lifelong sorrow.

Still feeling the rush of excitement in the air, I wondered around until I bumped into this amazing player:

Here name is Jennifer Hamson.  If you can't tell, she is the starting center for the Women's basketball team.  She is pretty good at basketball.  She was named the best Offensive and Defensive player in the conference.  She was very down to earth and fun to visit with.  She also plays on the Volleyball team.  I asked her which sport she wants to play when she graduates and she truly doesn't know.  She loves them both.  Oh, and by the way, she was just drafted to play in the WNBA, so yeah, she is kind of a big deal.

Next I found this flag hanging up and knew this picture had to happen:

I had to stop a random stranger to be my photographer.  He probably didn't think I was weird at all, right?

Right after I took this picture, I met a very nice young man who asked if he could interview me about being a fan of  BYU.  You can read his blog for the Deseret News here.  It is pretty hilarious and I want to know if I get a sash and crown to go with my title of "Biggest BYU fan in Las Vegas."  I may or may not have frightened him a little bit.  But if he was looking for a fan to interview, I am kind of gold when it comes to being passionate about my team.

After that, I renewed my quest to meet the guys at BYU Sports Nation.  I returned to the third floor where I knew they were getting ready to do a broadcast.  For one of my jobs, I have a picture ID on a lanyard.  Realizing that these security guards were really not scrutinizing things that much, I put it around my neck.  With an attitude that I knew what I was doing and was supposed to be there, I walked right past the guard without giving her a second glance.  The third time was the charm, as I was not stopped.

I had fun visiting with Ben Bagley, the voice of BYU Sports Nation.  He didn't seem to think it all that strange that an old lady would bamboozle security.  We chatted about being a fan, until Spencer showed up and this picture happened:

The quality is not very good, and Jarom is missing, but for now it will have to do.  I know there will be other chances for pictures with them.  It is strange to meet someone you listen to every day.  I love how that show keeps me informed on all the latest news with BYU.  It is pure fun and tom foolery.  Any BYU fan should check it out.

All of these events made me feel like the tournament was a success and the men's team had not even played yet.  Saturday I arrived early for the game and again found an open seat next to some other fans.  My previous experiences were repeated as I found a camaraderie with some fellow Cougars.  We cheered and yelled at the refs together.  The team won and all was well.  Here is a blurry shot of the guys warming up:

And here is one from my seat at that game:

Someone told me that I would not want to miss watching Gonzaga play nor seeing how passionate their fans are.  Sure enough I was not disappointed.  Again I found some BYU fans to sit by.  I ended up sitting next to two lovely elderly couples.  It turned out that one of them was the sister of my Stake Young Women's president in Seattle.  It really is such a small world in the church.  Her husband sat next to me and it was like watching the game with my Grandpa.  He was very friendly and we had fun visiting while watching the game.  It was a very close game and it looked like Gonzage would loose for most of the game.  It was only with a buzzer beating coast to coast move by John Stockton's son, that Gonzaga managed to win.  The BYU fans around me were going crazy thinking that Gonzaga might get eliminated in their fist game, but they pulled off the win.

On Sunday, we had many visitors at church who were in town for the tournament.  Most only stayed for Sacrament meeting, but one couple did stay for all three meetings.  Of course I spoke with the wife in Relief Society as any good RS president would do. It turns out that her husband is another VP at BYU, Brother Webb.   I also shared about the blog written about me as my good news minute, and the whole RS laughed about what a big fan I am.  Afterwards, I met Brother Webb and he said "Oh, are you the big BYU fan that they warned me about in High Priests?"  Well, yes, that would be me.  I visited with both of them and made two more new friends.

Monday night finally arrived, and I was back to the arena for the evening of games.  Gonzaga played first.  I arrived early, hoping to find a good seat down close.  The good thing about going alone, was that you can always find one open seat just about anywhere.  As I was looking around, I noticed that Danny Ainge was sitting near by.  So of course I took a selfie with him in the back ground.

Then I noticed an empty seat on the second row next to a large group of fans.  I asked if the seat was open and the girl sitting there said I was welcome to sit there.  It turns out that this was the family of Kevin Worthen, who I had met on Friday.  It was so fun to sit and cheer and visit with them.  The girl sitting next to me said that I should just ask Danny if I could get my picture with him and she helped take it.  So this is better than a selfie:

We got to be very good friends and I shared all about my love for BYU.  She mentioned that her dad had to go home because of the devotional the next day.  I thought to myself, how sad, but I suppose when Elder Eyring comes and speaks at a devotional and announces that you will be the next president, you have to be there, basketball tournament or not.  We watched as Gonzaga easily won their game, advancing to the championship game the next night.  As I look down the row during that game, who should I see but my good friend Brother Webb.  I waved to him and he actually waved back.  Between the games he came down and told me that he had to go home that night, but that he wanted me to have his tickets for the championship game.  He told me that I had to bring someone with me and that he knew I would represent BYU the next night in those seats.  I could not believe it.  Now, I would not have to steal a seat, I could legitimately sit on the second row for that game.  To say I was excited, was an understatement.

It was finally time for the tip off.  BYU struggled back and forth through the whole game.  Those of us in our section really thought the refs were missing a bunch of calls, and we let them know about it.

It turned out the Tom Holmoe had the seat the was directly behind me.  BYUtv caught him on camera yelling at the refs.  And who do you think was right there with him?  Well that would be me, wouldn't it.  We are both outraged at the no call mugging of Tyler Haws at this point.

But then in the next moment, Matt Carlino sunk a three and we took the lead.  We both celebrated in our own way.  That game was so exciting and had the happiest of endings.  I loved every minute of it.

The next morning, Tom Holmoe was interviewed on BYU Sports Nation.  Imagine my surprise when they played this video and there I was right in front of him.  Even though the above still shots are pretty great, you have to see the whole video to fully appreciate the moment.

Tuesday night, I returned for the championship.  I was full of hope, but cautiously optimistic about how that game would go.  When I arrived to my seat, I met Sandra Rodgers who as sitting right next to me.  Well actually I already know and love her well as she is in charge of Women's Conference every year.  We had a wonderful visit before the game.  I am sure I only scared her a little with my fanatical following of all things BYU.  She was worried and hopeful as well.  She mentioned that she figured if they won, she would go out for ice cream to celebrate, and if they lost, she would go out for ice cream to drown her sorrows.  So either way, there would be ice cream.  Sounded like a reasonable plan to me.

Here are some pictures from my seat.  I was very close to the team.

Although they fought hard, it was not in the cards to win that game.  The injury to Kyle Collinsworth did not help and in the end Gonzaga was too much for the Cougars.

Right after the game, I witnessed the most tender moment between Coach Rose and his wife.  He sat on the bench and looked at her until someone tapped her and she made eye contact with him.  He just gave a smile like "Well we gave it all we had, and I know you still love me."  It was evident of their caring relationship.  I don't know if we give the coaches families enough credit for their sacrifices.  I felt blessed to be there for that.

It always amazes me when I am present for losses.  Everyone is so sad and disappointed.  I was also, but at the same time, I am so grateful for the chance to be present and be a part of all the atmosphere, that I can't help but feel happy about that.  I experienced something similar at the Oregon St loss at the black out football game.  Anytime I get to be with other Cougar fans, it is a great day for me regardless of the outcome.

Hats Off to BYU

Diana and I are spending the week in Spanish Fork visiting my sister and two brothers for the whole week of spring break. We have had the dream girls vacation. Such good times.

There was nothing on the calendar today, and so it seemed like the oportune time for some brainwashing. You can never start too young with training up a child in the university she should worship. All of you, except for those living in a cave, are well aware of my BYU FANaticisn and freakish delight in all things BYU. If you are one of THOSE people who do not especially care for BYU, it's OK. I will still talk to you and read your blog. But I think it would be best if we went on a don't ask, don't tell policy. If you hate BYU, I don't want to hear about.

For me, BYU was crucial in turning me out to be an almost educated accountant. I loved my years here. BYU is responsible for my last name, in that it is where I met my husband. And so for this, and many other reasons, I will always be fanatically compulsive in my obsession. Even though spell checker doesn't think BYU is a word. What does it know, anyway?


And what better place to fall in love with BYU than the Wilkensen Center, Cougareat, and Bookstore?


Here is Diana next to the nice barricade keeping all terrorists from driving into the Wilkensen Center. I am sure that BYU is high on the list of most terrorists for places of derision.


Do you think I look tasty to this Cougar? If it loves Cougar loving people, it would find me delicious.

And Diana had a turn to be kitty food.



We found this inspiring T-shirt at the bookstore.

Diana found this adorable hat. And yes that red tag means it is on clearance. Too bad they didn't have one in my size. Who doesn't need a hat with a cougar sticking out both sides?

Here I am with a few items to help pull off the crazed fan look. And I am practicing my best stalking stance. GO COUGARS!!!

And then I went on the search for the perfect hat for me. I tried many different ones. What do you think? Will I be getting a call to be the next top BYU Hat model? Should I start interviewing agents? I think I may have missed my calling.

Of course I picked the one that had BYU Football on it. What other choice could I make, I ask you. As if there was ever any doubt.


Next we have the Show Your School Spirit pictures. Maybe the cheerleaders will be calling me also and I will have hard decisions to make.


Look how well I am rubbing off on my offspring?

How do I have such a cute kid, with such a cute hat? Irresistible, I tell you!

And after all the hard work of shopping, we moved onto the eating portion of the competition. Ice cream from the Cougareat and in the white bag on the table two of the most delicious mint brownies you have ever eaten.

And in case any of you had any doubt, I will demonstrate just how yum-dily-icious those brownies are. I will also take all the calories for you as well, I am such a giver that way.

When asked for her review of the days activities, Diana gave it all two thumbs up. Stay tuned for the next post in which I stumble upon the Holy Grail of BYU Football. You won't want to miss it, I assure you.

Turkey sings the blues!

As I was picking all the bones out of my turkey meat, look what I found! I think it is totally a sign that BYU will be victorious tomorrow. What else could it mean? Obviously even the turkeys are bleeding blue. Those of you who live in Utah valley, tell me this doesn't look just like the "Y" on the side of the mountain. So on to victory, Cougars. Perhaps I will drill a hole in this bone and make a necklace or hang it from my rear view mirror. Or do you think I could sell it on e-bay to some really die hard cougar fans? We are less than 24 hours away from kick off. I hope I can sleep tonight. This should be as exciting as last year's game and so I will need to be well rested in order to survive the nail biting that may be going on as I watch.

Rah, Rah, Rah, Rah, Rah, Gooooooo Cougars!!!

We went to the game yesterday and the tailgate before hand. It was the best thing, I have been to in a long time. I met the cheer leaders, got my face painted, and won a hand towel by throwing a football through a hoop. Trent, Jared, and I planned to go, so I ordered 3 tickets. Then last Thursday a friend asked if I wanted 3 more tickets. So Trent brought 2 friends, and Jared brought his friend Tanner. Marion stayed home with Diana. He would rather sit comfortably at home and watch a game on TV, so that worked out well.

Here is me with Robbie Bosco, the quarterback for BYU in 1984. He led BYU to a national championship by winning 13 games that season. One of my favorite parts of the whole night, was after the game. Jared, Tanner, and I went down to front row. We were able to high five the whole team one by one. It is a little bit sad that I was elbowing little kids to get to the front, but hey, a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do. Now I can say that I have given a high five to Max Hall and Brian Kehl as well as the rest of the team. It was awesome!

FAN-atic!

Well most of you might not know that the BYU football team is in town to play UNLV tomorrow night. Remember my Christmas card? Us Hammonds are BIG BYU fans. One great thing about BYU's football coach, Bronco Mendenhall, is that he has a fireside before each game. No one else in my family wanted to go, so I went alone. The fireside was great and very inspiring. It is hard to describe the spirit when all these young, strong football players stand and sing "Armies of Helaman". I loved hearing everything that was said, and Max Hall the quarterback. even walked right by me when he went up to sing. Afterwards, I wondered around and listened and watched everyone visiting. There were several little boys with their footballs and they were getting autographs from as many players as possible. I wondered why I hadn't thought of that, but then wondered would I feel silly standing in line with a bunch of young boys? Possibly. OK maybe not. But there will always be a next time in two years. Anyway even though I had my camera in my purse, I was too shy to pull it out inside the building. Finally, I decided to go out to the car. Just outside there was a large group of players waiting to get on the bus. Somehow I managed to gather my hutspa and asked if they would mind being in a picture with me. They quickly agreed, one of them was perhaps camera shy because he quickly volunteered to take the picture. If any of you recognize anyone in the picture let me know, because it might be interesting to know. I think the players might have wondered what kind of crazy old lady would be such a fan. Then I walked around the corner of the building, and there was Coach Mendenhall and his wife Holly. So I got a picture with them also. I am taking my stalker status to a whole new level.

Ch-Ch-Changes

Marion received a new calling today- Young Men's president. They did not get him released as ward clerk, so he will wear two hats for a week. He is still in a bit of shock, but I know that he will do great. I am the Laurel advisor and so we get to work together with the boys. And Diana thinks she is one of the young women already and loves to come with me to mutual, so now she will always have an excuse to come. Next Saturday we are having a one day retreat with the youth at the Bishop's cabin up on Mt Charleston. It should be a fun day. I think that Marion is going to cook the dutch oven dinner. Diana is going to go and spend the day with friends, so that will be nice.


A shout out to the BYU football team. Thanks for a great exciting game yesterday. I think in some ways I enjoyed it more than the game last week, when there was never even any question that we would win. Of course I would have liked it better this week, if they had won, but it was still very exciting to watch nonetheless. We had a big group here cheering and that was fun. Well Cougars, better luck next week against Tulsa. I am excited that the game is at night so we can watch when we get home. They had this same activity last year, and I was a driver for it even though I was not in young women's at the time. It was the day of the Boston College game that was so exciting, with a heatbreaking overtime loss. I remember that I was listening in the car, and the reception kept going in and out. I about died of suspense wondering what was happening, and took to driving around the neighborhood trying to find a good place for the radio reception. So it is very happy that this year I won't have to go through that again.

Cougar Fanatics

I tried to put this on the side of my blog, but it is too wide and Marion was cut off, so now I will just put it as a post. I loved the idea of showing our cougar pride in this Christmas card picture. The boys in my family were less than impressed. But that is OK, I am used to it. I love that I have brainwashed my kids to like BYU football. Recently Trent's high school let the kids wear UNLV t-shirts to school, which usually would be against the dress code, but it was allowed this day due to some show of support for UNLV's basketball team. Of course Trent was thrilled with the opportunity to not have to wear a polo shirt , but he of course wore his BYU shirt.