My name is Reid Johnson. Growing up, I never played football, but I learned to love the game from my grandfather. The only problem is… he’s an avid Packers fan. And, for a long time, I was too.
That all changed when I met a hardcore Vikings fan named Harlie Olson (sometimes referred to in my posts as H.C. Skolson).
Harlie has never missed a game in his life (even as an infant). After learning of my green and gold heritage, he made it his mission to convert me to the Norse religion. Every day of our high school saga, Harlie would bombard me with Vikings propaganda while teaching me about the storied franchise. With a new stadium, coach (Mike Zimmer) and promising future, I began to question my roots.
During the 2014 NFL draft, the Vikings rocked the boat by using a first round pick on a humble underdog quarterback named Teddy Bridgewater. That bold move is what pushed me over the edge and made me a believer. Teddy may no longer be the face of the franchise, but I’m hooked for life.
It would appear the apprentice has surpassed the master, as my passion for the team has reached and superseded Harlie’s. Now, we bombard each other with the latest Vikings lore on a daily basis. He successfully converted me, and I seek to enlighten fellow Green Bay refugees and engage lifelong Vikings fans through my website.
If you or someone you know is just getting into the sport, or cheering for a team other than Minnesota, I hope my blog may inspire you to start your own metaphorical roots in the fake grass turf of U.S. Bank Stadium.
Enjoy, and see you in Valhalla.
Reid