Friday night’s a great night for football

I was surprised to learn, as a newlywed, that football would take over so much of my weekend. I didn’t know that Mr Couture even liked football! Sure, in the past he had shown a knowledge about the big ticket games, but I had no idea of the depth to which his interest lied - nor the impact football season would have on our winter.

You see, while dating our life revolved around going out: fine dining... long lunches... weekends away... whiling an afternoon away in a park with a picnic and the newspaper... And during all this, I can't remember the conversation ever turning to football. Now that I think about it, was it possible that I wasn't always listening properly?

Looking back now, I can see that our early times together were probably scheduled around match fixtures. And it is probable that he had exhausted any footy-related conversation with other enthusiasts before morphing into a suitable date and coming out with me.

It wasn’t until coming home as a new bride that I realised the extent of his interest. I was sent interstate by work to attend the first Indigenous v NRL allstars match and ditched the tickets to spend time with my best girl. Shocked that I wouldn't want to attend the match on our behalf, the look of hurt and betrayal in his face made me understand - this man was a serious fan.

So while all the single people are out enjoying their Friday nights in trendy bars and fine dining restaurants, I’ll be learning to love some time at home with the footy. But just some time. (Go Cowboys!)