This inquiry can turn assumptions and stereotypes on their heads. We think that 6' 7" guy has got to love basketball or the class brainiac has got to love chess, but sometimes it is the other way around. My 9 year old niece said this inquiry is her favorite because her answer is basketball and it always surprises those asking. This is part of the fun of asking questions. We get to learn about the world around us and we get to be surprised. Often, these sports favorites come as a result of childrood experiences. I got my son hooked on the main American sports, of football, baseball and basketball, as a youth and cheering for the local DC teams. Our watching experiences could not be more different; he knows the players, stats and who might be traded at the next opportunity, while I will enjoy watching the heat of competition, but will probably have forgotten who was the visiting team by the time I get to the car. A loss can destroy his week but forgetfulness leaves me unscathed. As a Redskins fan, I think I come out ahead, but this will be our year to make it all the way!
When did you come to love your sport? What are your earliest memories? What sports did you play while growing up? If your playing and watching favorites are different, why? What sport or team do you despise? What sport will you watch live, but not on TV? What is your favorite sports memory? What question is next?