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Redskins Pride

7:42 PM Thu, Jan 03, 2008 |

I thought I knew some big sports fans. My brother is a die-hard Eagles fan, my brother-in-law a big-time Redskins fan, and I've interviewed some crazy Steelers fans (my favorite are "Steeler Dan" and "Steeler Dave" in Central Pennsylvania. They have full Steelers uniforms and wigs, and drive around a big van painted black and gold). But even THEY can't compare to the couple I met tonight.

I was working on a story about Redskins training camp possibly moving the Virginia Beach. So I called my colleague Mike Gooding (a big Redskins fan) to find out if he could put me in touch with some other members of the Redskins Nation. I was in luck. He gave me Ruth and Bruce Gray's phone number. I called and they said "come on over..."

My photographer, Ryan Bellamy, and I immediately recognized the house by the Redskins flag flying out front. We then saw the car with a bumper sticker proclaiming "In Gibbs We Trust." But that was only the beginning. At first, when I walked into their home, I didn't notice exactly how much Redskins memorabilia was there. But as I looked around it hit me. EVERYTHING had a 'Skins connection. The door mat, the ceiling fan, the lightswitch, ticket stubs, programs, autographed helmets, autographed photos, paintings, they even had bottled dirt from RFK Stadium.

Oh and did I mention not all of their Redskins stuff is out? Ruth told me she has several boxes up in the attic all brimming with 'Skins gear (and all carefully labeled so she can find what she needs). Her closet is also packed with t-shirts and sweatshirts, even Redskins spandex pants.

I was truly amazed. Not only do the Grays make time to travel to all of the 'Skins home games (and have friends over to watch away games), but all of that stuff must have cost a fortune! That's true dedication.

And now, if I'm ever looking to trade in my black and gold gear and find a Redskins party... I'll know exactly where to go.




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