Brotherhood Beyond Borders: The Lasting Legacy of Three Super Bowl Champions
In a world where sports fandoms often come and go with the tide of victories and defeats, there exists a brotherhood that defies time and circumstance. Meet Don Crisman, Greg Eaton, and Tom Henschel, three stalwart companions bound not just by their love for football but by an unbreakable bond of friendship. They are the last of the “Never Missed a Super Bowl Club,” a testament to their enduring passion for the game and each other.
Since 1967, when the Super Bowl was still in its infancy as “The First AFL-NFL World Championship Game,” this trio has been a constant presence in the stands, witnessing history unfold with each passing year. Through triumphs and heartbreaks, they stood together, their camaraderie strengthened by their shared devotion to the sport they hold dear.
As the years have gone by, the club has dwindled in numbers, with age and illness claiming some of its members. Yet, Don, Greg, and Tom remain steadfast, their spirits undimmed by the passage of time. They have weathered the storms of life together, finding solace and joy in each other’s company.
For Don, Greg, and Tom, the Super Bowl transcends mere spectacle; it is a sacred tradition, a pilgrimage they undertake with reverence and joy. “When you love the game, you’ve got to go,” says Henschel, echoing the sentiments of his companions. “It’s something you have to experience,” adds Greg, his voice tinged with nostalgia for the timeless rituals of the game.
Their friendship, forged in the crucible of countless Super Bowl Sundays, is a source of strength and inspiration. What began as a shared passion for football has blossomed into a deep and abiding bond, a bond that sustains them through life’s trials and tribulations.
But their journey has not been without its challenges. From last-minute ticket scrambles to health scares, Don, Greg, and Tom have faced obstacles with grit and determination. Yet, through it all, they have emerged victorious, their indomitable spirit shining bright against the backdrop of adversity.
As they approach the twilight of their Super Bowl odyssey, Don, in particular, grapples with the specter of mortality. His health may be failing, but his spirit remains undaunted. “I’ve said that before,” he muses, his voice tinged with a mixture of resignation and hope.
For these three friends, the Super Bowl is more than just a game; it is a celebration of friendship, a testament to the enduring power of camaraderie. As they look ahead to the future, they do so with a sense of gratitude for the memories they have shared and a determination to savor every moment that lies ahead.
And so, as they bid farewell to another Super Bowl season, Don, Greg, and Tom do so with hearts full of gratitude and anticipation. For in the hallowed halls of football history, their legacy will endure, a testament to the enduring power of friendship and the timeless appeal of the game they love.
Sources:
- https://youtu.be/5OwqzyDV46w?si=gpqFweaImuQQ21Sp
- https://www.inspiremore.com/meet-the-final-three-members-of-the-never-missed-a-super-bowl-club/
- https://www.reviewjournal.com/sports/football/super-bowl/meet-the-3-octogenarians-who-have-never-missed-a-super-bowl-2997804/
- https://chat.openai.com/
- https://readloud.net/
About Author
