The Loudest Cheer in the Field – My Journey as My Best Friend’s #1 Supporter

 By Mia❤

There’s a certain kind of pride that blooms when you watch someone you care about chase their dreams with all their heart. For me, that pride comes from being the number one supporter of my best friend my brother not by blood, but by bond as he takes the field, time and time again, to play the sport he loves most, rugby.

From the very first time I saw him step onto the pitch, I knew this was more than just a game to him. It was his passion, his escape, and his battlefield. And from that moment, I made a silent promise I would always be there, from the muddy high fields to the roaring university stadiums, no matter the weather, no matter the score.

Being his supporter isn’t just about showing up. It’s about feeling every tackle as if it hit me too, holding my breath when he runs with the ball, and shouting until my voice cracks when he scores. It’s being there when he wins, and more importantly, when he loses because those are the moments he needs me most. I’ve seen him hurt, frustrated, injured, and exhausted. But I’ve also seen him rise stronger each time, driven by the fire inside him and the unwavering support around him.

Every match feels like a personal chapter in our shared story. I know his jersey number by heart. I know his game face, his nervous ticks, the way he adjusts his wrist tape before kickoff. Sometimes, I catch his eyes scanning the crowd and when they find me, with my ridiculous signboard or loud cheer, I see that little smile. That look that says, “You’re here. Let’s do this.”

Rugby gave him purpose. And in a way, it gave me mine too. Being his support system made me understand what loyalty really means. It’s not just about celebrating the highlights it’s about sticking around through the bruises, the missed conversions, and the rainy training days.

Some people don’t get it. They ask, "Why go to every game?" or "Why care so much when you’re not the one playing?" But what they don’t see is that this isn’t just his journey. It’s ours. His wins feel like my wins. His struggles make me push harder in my own life. Watching him chase his goals makes me believe in mine.

So here I am, again and again, on the sidelines. Rain or shine, front row or from afar, I’ll always be the loudest voice cheering him on. Because no matter where life takes us, one thing remains true I’ll always be in his corner, for every try, every tackle, every game.

This isn’t just about rugby. It’s about friendship. And this is how I love loud, proud, and all in.