It was unbelievable, even though it had happened so many times before.
My favorite NFL team the Indianapolis Colts had just lost to the San Diego Chargers, going one-and-done for the sixth time in nine playoff appearances.
Disgusted, I got up from my desk at work and walked around wanting to take out my frustration by punching a wall or two. Thankfully, more rational thought prevailed and I returned to my desk without damaging anything. The last thing I need appearing on my employment history is "Craig damages company property."
I continued working for awhile then received a call from my fiancee, who wanted me to get a couple things from the store on my way home.
I don't remember the conversation, but I remember still being in a foul mood when we had it. I must have said something rude because 10 minutes later I got a text message from her: Are you mad at me?
I stared at the text for awhile before it sank in.
I had fan rage.
While not as bad as 'roid rage or even road rage, fan rage isn't something to be taken lightly. Under the influence, it can make a person throw something at a television set, take an extra drink or two at the bar or get into a fight.
A quick search of crazy fans on the internet produced people tipping over cars and/or throwing beer on players. One Pittsburgh Steelers fan even had a heart attack during a particularly exciting part of a 2006 playoff game.
While I didn't suffer from any of these side effects, being rude to your fiancee comes with its own consequences.
If we know being emotionally involved in a team or sporting event can be bad for us, why do we do it?
I've come to the conclusion that we enjoy the wide swings of emotion produced by following our favorite team, even though the likelihood of losing is greater than the likelihood of winning.
It is like the girl that dates the guy with a bad reputation. She knows she'll probably get hurt, but the chance of landing the guy that can't be landed is too enticing to pass up.
As bad as the loss feels, winning feels that much better.
After last season's loss by the Colts in the playoffs, I made a decision not to become so emotionally involved in the team. I'd watch their games, but be impartial. If they win, great, but if they lose, who cares?
I tried taking that attitude into Saturday's playoff game, but it didn't take long for that nervous excitement to creep into my body as I listened on the radio. By the time it was over, I might as well have been on the field for as involved as I was in the game.
It's OK to be a fan, just do it in moderation.
Maybe next season I'll be better at following my own advice.
(Craig Haupert is a sports writer for The Minot Daily News. He can be reached by e-mail at chau pert@minotdailynews.com)