Eric Boggs
In the heart of the Midwest, where college football allegiances run deep, Ray Berger’s story stands out as a testament to the power of faith, conviction, and the unexpected paths life can take. A once-devoted Michigan Wolverines fan, Ray’s life took a dramatic turn that ultimately led him to become an ardent supporter of their arch-rival, the Ohio State Buckeyes.
Ray Berger, a native of New Haven, Indiana, spent 18 years attending games at Michigan Stadium, known affectionately as “The Big House.” His love for the Wolverines was unwavering, and over the years, he invested a small fortune in season tickets, tailgating gear, and maize-and-blue memorabilia. For Ray, game days in Ann Arbor were more than just a pastime—they were a way of life.
However, everything changed in 2011. Ray’s deep faith and his desire to share it with others became a point of contention with the Michigan football community. “They fired me, revoked my season tickets, and ran me out of town like a criminal for telling people about God down there,” Ray recalls. His voice still carries the pain and disbelief of that moment, even after more than a decade.
The incident, which made headlines in the Flint Journal on March 4, 2011, marked the beginning of a new chapter in Ray’s life. With his love for Michigan football tarnished by what he saw as an unjust punishment, Ray found himself searching for a new team to root for. And in an ironic twist of fate, he turned to Michigan’s biggest rival: Ohio State.
Since 2011, Ray has been a loyal Buckeye, embracing the scarlet and gray with the same fervor he once reserved for the Wolverines. He regularly calls into the “OHIO Podcast,” a popular Buckeye fan show, where his passionate and often humorous takes on college football have made him a beloved figure among Ohio State fans.
In a recent call to the podcast, Ray reminisced about his transformation from Wolverine to Buckeye. “I’ve rooted for you guys since 2011,” he told the hosts. “Michigan ran me out of town, so I’ve always rooted for you guys.” His voice, filled with both conviction and a touch of defiance, underscores the depth of his commitment to his new team.
But Ray’s journey is about more than just switching allegiances. It’s about standing up for what he believes in, even when it comes at a personal cost. Despite the way Michigan treated him, Ray has never wavered in his faith. He continues to share his story, hoping that others might find inspiration in his journey.
Ray’s story also serves as a reminder that sports, for all their intensity and rivalry, are ultimately about community and shared experiences. “I want you to look up that story, Flint Journal, March 4, 2011,” Ray urged the podcast hosts. “You’ll see me on the front page. They revoked my season tickets and ran me out of town like a criminal because I really believe.”
Today, Ray is a fixture in the Buckeye fan community, known for his spirited discussions and unwavering support of Ohio State. And while his story began in the stands of Michigan Stadium, it has found a new home in Columbus, where Ray Berger—a man of faith, conviction, and resilience—has truly found his place.
Ray’s tale is a powerful reminder that life’s setbacks can often lead to unexpected and rewarding new beginnings. And for Ray, becoming a Buckeye wasn’t just about finding a new team to cheer for—it was about finding a community that embraced him for who he is, beliefs and all.
