She Powers Stamford’s Teams, On and Off the Field
It should come as no surprise that on Halloween night the Stamford High School football team had one of its smallest crowds of the season. It should also come as no surprise that Emily Powers was one of the fans in the student section at Boyle Stadium for the Black Knights’ 41-21 win over Fairfield Ludlowe.
“There was a football game,” Powers explained matter-of-factly. “It was supposed to be a win. I like going to games.”
At a time of declining numbers in the stands, Powers is a throwback. It is hard to imagine anyone having greater school spirit than the perky Stamford senior.
Powers goes to every football game. She estimates that she missed just two to three boys basketball games last winter and made every baseball game. She attends a majority of the hockey games.
Stamford athletics is Powers’ own personal field of dreams. Her mantra could easily be, “If they play it, I will come.”
“I get into it,” Powers explained. “You are only in high school once. We all dress up and go to the football games.”
Powers is more than just a fan. She is also a starting fullback for the Black Knights’ field hockey team, arguably their most underrated player and an excellent defender.
I wrote a column about Powers two weeks ago. I had only interviewed her once previously, but after spending a half hour with her I came away thinking here is someone who represents all that is good about scholastic sports. She is extremely popular with her teammates and students at the school, very outgoing and is passionate about playing without seeking any personal acclaim.
I was also taken with how big a sports fan she is, and not just supporting her school. Powers said she will probably spend part of today watching college football. She is looking forward to the Georgia-Florida game. Tomorrow, after her team’s final practice before Monday’s opening round of the state tournament, Powers will sneak in some naps while sitting in front of her TV watching pro football, including her favorite team, the Giants.
“There’s always some game to watch and I love it,” she said.
Don’t be surprised if five years from now Powers is working in some capacity in the sports world. With her personality she would make an ideal publicist.
Right now Powers is focused on trying to help the Black Knights repeat as state champions. Her final game will come sometime in the next two weeks.
And when her career is over? Powers will probably shed a few tears and then be back in the bleachers supporting Stamford’s other teams.