Love them Browns Backers

I wrote a post last week that, I believe, really underscored what great fans Browns fans are. I truly believe that — win or lose, we love our Browns.

Want more proof? Two words: Browns Backers.

Did you know the Browns Backers Worldwide (BBW) is considered to be one of the largest organized fan clubs in all of professional sports with members and Clubs established throughout the world?

See, Browns fans stretch far and wide beyond Northeast Ohio.

When I lived in Indianapolis for a brief period several years ago, you can be sure I never missed a Browns game thanks to the Central Indiana Browns Backers Association (CIBBA).

I remember getting nervous as that first preseason game approached that year, nervous that I would not be able to watch my beloved Browns. Lo and behold, I found CIBBA. I drove to the north side of the city, to the bar where the group officially met, and I was able to watch the Browns.

While there, I met some really great people — many, many Browns fans.

I immediately signed up to be a member. It was a great time in my life. I was a long way from Cleveland, but every Sunday I was able to watch the Browns with a group of Browns fans. I never felt more at home while I lived in Indy than when I was with the CIBBA.

As it happens, that year was the sole playoff appearance by the Browns since the return in 1999. Needless to say, there was a lot to cheer about that year.

Another great memory from that experience was driving down to Cincinnati with a group from CIBBA to join in the Cincinnati Browns Backers annual tailgate party before the Bengals game. I had a great time hanging with so many Browns fans and watching the Browns kick Cincy's butt.

Since I moved back to Cleveland, I have not joined another Browns Backers club, since I know plenty of Browns fans in the area and can be assured I can see the game every week.

I've always felt a connection and a certain amount of pride, however, whenever I hear about a Browns Backers club or event.

Last fall, while in Hawaii, I dragged my wife (she was my fiancee at the time) out of bed bright and early so that we could meet up with the Honolulu Browns Backers to watch the Browns at 7 a.m.

Though they lost the game, it was still a great time, as we were welcomed by the group and it felt a little bit like home.

I'm sure many others have had great experiences with their Browns Backers clubs. We are die hard fans — and we're everywhere.

Go Browns!