I'm a junior at Westfield State College and a Communications major. I'm considering pursuing a career in journalism, so I thought writing columns for my number one hobby (wrestling) would be a great start and offer me plenty of practice.

Let me first say that I am a big wrestling fan. I followed WCW from 1998 until its close in 2001, and WWE from 1998 until about 2002 or so. I was a bigger fan of WCW by far, which was apparent given my lack of interest after it was sold to WWE. However, a few years ago, nostalgia kicked into gear and I found myself 'caring' again. In February of 2006, I purchased six bootleg wrestling DVDs on eBay out of pure curiosity. One was WCW's Great American Bash 1991. I have to say this was a terrible show. However, it, along with Starrcade 89 and 90, hooked me back into wrestling. Seeing Steve Austin before he was "Stone Cold" and seeing Sting before he dressed in black and hid in the rafters intrigued me to the point where all I wanted to do was research and learn about all thing wrestling. Two years later, I have amassed a collection of about 800 shows and have gotten to re-live some important parts of my childhood/young adult years by re-experiencing favorite years of wrestling (like WCW's Nitro in 1998.)

I am well aware that this is 'fake,' 'predetermined,' 'scripted,' or whatever label you wish to attach to the wrestling world. I am well aware that it can't completely be compared to 'real' sports like football or baseball. It isn't intended to be compared in such a manner, anyway. It's an athletic/psychological form of entertainment, a cash cow of a business. I say it's psychological because of the intentional flows and patterns of wrestling matches. The 'emotional roller coaster' intended to drive crowds into a frenzy of boos or cheers, but either way, bringing them back for more.

Many turn their noses up at wrestling. It's understandable that it's not for everyone, but I think it's important to point out the reasons why it can appeal to certain people.
For example, young kids will like it because guys like Hulk Hogan or John Cena are portrayed as wholesome superhero/role models who are fighting 'the bad guys.'
Conversely, teenagers might like 'the bad guys' because it's 'cool.' Or, you might be someone like me who doesn't buy into the storylines, but is completely fascinated with how the business is run, and WHY people DO buy into the storylines.

When I'm not studying and analyzing the card or the match at hand, I just like to be entertained like everyone else. It's all about the suspension of belief, and allowing yourself to be drawn in.

Basically, who cares if it's fake? It's fun. 8-)