HANOVER, Pa. — The excitement is palpable as the Ravens get set to host their first AFC championship game in over 50 years. Their loyal fans in Hanover will be there to cheer them on.
"I usually don't give my predictions," said Raven's Roose 32 member George Billman. "I'm not a pessimist, but I don't count things before they go. I hope we... well, 'Bleep, bleep, bleep' them."
Billman is one of the founding members of the roost. In fact, he was a member of the Hanover-area Colts Corral before they moved to Indianapolis. Fans like Billman will be ready to rock and roll come Sunday.
"It's very enjoyable to be with your children and then be with your friends and family," said Mike Bair, another roost member. "To party and have a good time and root for your team."
While home games are spent at the tailgate outside of the stadium, away games are no different. This extended family of football fans has even extended their goodwill to the local community
"We have an annual crab and chicken feast that is a lot of work but we all come together and make it happen," said fellow member Kristen Gessner. "We raise a decent amount of money to give out to people who need it in our community. It's awesome to have the Ravens bringing people together, to do good for others and then spending time with my family."
The president of the group is Vietnam veteran Stephen Weaver. He was honored a few years ago by the Ravens on the field for being a hometown hero. He's been with the Roost since its inception.
"We all have a good time together, drink a few beers, things like that," said Weaver. "At the tailgate, we have a good time, it's good people."
The Ravens Roost 32 has grown to almost 80 people. It's a non-profit organization that anyone is welcome to join. They hope their Ravens can knock off the Chiefs and advance to Super Bowl 58.