Backing the underdog is much more fun

I love it when the underdog wins. That’s what sport is all about. There have been a number of fantastic stories this year: Greg Norman’s British Open, the emergence of Casey Dellacqua, and Spain winning Euro 2008.

But to my mind, the biggest story of the year has been the rise and rise of the Tampa Bay Rays.

For those who are unaware of the fairytale, the Rays came into existence in 1998 and have been a joke ever since.

Poor on-field performances were compounded by horrible drafting and personnel decisions. They became the home of young and untried rookies desperate to play anywhere, or over the hill veterans trying to extend their careers.

But then something happened this year: they began winning and winning and winning.

Their previous best season was 70-91. Already this season, they’ve won 79 games, and with around a month left in the regular season, they are still in first place and look good to make their very first playoffs appearance.

Now there is a buzz to the club and the games they play in.

There is no advertising like winning games, so the stadium has gone from being a ghost town to having the ‘no vacancies’ sign hung up.

Regardless of what happens from here, the season has already been a phenomenal success.

The same thing happened to the Sydney Swans in the AFL in 1996.

They went from a national laughing stock to the Grand Final. After nine years of consolidation and growth they broke their premiership drought.

In the early 90s they risked being kicked out of the league, but now their place is safe.

The same thing can also happen in reverse.

In the late 60s and early 70s, Richmond was the powerhouse. Over an eight year period they won five flags.

But now they are experiencing their longest premiership drought since entering the league.

Except the fans of that team, dynasties aren’t that good for sport. It’s better if the wealth is shared around and different teams get to experience the glory.

After overdosing on Hawthorn and Manly in the 1980s, it’s nice to see them back in the mix.

Who wants to cheer Goliath taking on David? It’s like cheering for the house in blackjack.

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