But often my observation in Austin's Steiner Ranch community is a flag waving from the front porch, a bumper sticker, or even a t-shirt and cap tell the tale of where residents are from...or at least have lived before. College football team supporters.
No argument that there is a lot of burnt orange and white (UT), as well as maroon and white (A&M) proudly displayed around the community during coveted college football season. Actually year round! Visit homes, and you will find rooms dedicated to these teams, complete with thematic lampshades, rugs, showcased jerseys, throw pillows, commemorative helmets, and glassware. But look a little closer, and you will see plenty of hints of "other" team alignments.
Gators, Fighting Irish, Seminoles, Cardinals, Trojans, Buckeyes, and the list goes on. Observe: a dad watching kid soccer with a Bruin cap. A SUV filling up gas with a giant Ducks emblem across the back windshield. A jogger decked out in purple and gold Tiger wear.
Steiner Ranch's exemplary schools, span of housing prices and sizes, organized activities for kids and adults, and vast amenities and more, easily draw people from across the USA, even the world. Once here, many "transplants" quickly start wearing the Central Texas college gear (which is sold in every grocery store, gas station and even roadside). Stickers appear on cars! T-shirts appear on kids! Only a fraction of transplants will actually attend a football game. And some people like me, proudly support my out of state Alma Mater, AND cheer for the local guys too. But it is all fun, spirited and Steiner accepted.
