BASEMENT MILITIA

For Mike, being a Patriots fan isn’t just about watching games—it’s a way of life. As a proud founder of the Basement Militia, he’s built lasting bonds with fellow fans that go beyond wins, losses, and Super Bowl rings. From the highs of championship parades to the heartbreak of tough seasons, Mike has seen it all.

We sat down with him to talk about his passion for the New England Patriots, his game-day traditions, and what it truly means to be part of the Militia.

A Patriots Fan from Day One

For Mike, Patriots fandom started early. “My first jersey was a red #14 Steve Grogan. Some of my earliest memories are watching Drew Bledsoe sling it downfield to Terry Glenn—then, of course, seeing Brady take over and change everything.”

Like many New England fans, Mike’s loyalty runs deep. From chilly Sundays at Gillette, road trips to away games, and endless debates over who the GOAT really is (spoiler: it’s Brady), he’s lived and breathed Patriots football.

Game Days in the Basement Militia

Being part of the Basement Militia isn’t just about watching games—it’s about creating an experience.

“We built this group to be a true community—not just a place to watch games, but a place where we could celebrate, suffer, and scream at the TV together,” Mike says with a laugh.

Each game day follows a strict routine, blending tradition with superstition. “We have designated seats—nobody changes spots if we’re on a winning streak. Same food. Same beers. If something goes wrong, we switch it up. It’s ridiculous, but hey, it works.”

But for the Basement Militia, it’s more than just rituals. “We don’t just show up for the big games. We’re here for the rebuilding years, the tough stretches, and everything in between.”

The Best & Worst Moments as a Patriots Fan

When asked about his greatest Patriots moment, Mike doesn’t hesitate.

“The 2018 AFC Championship Game. Our son was two weeks old, and our family was all together watching. My dad was holding my newborn son as we watched the Pats punch their ticket to the Super Bowl. That was a top life moment.”

Of course, every fan has their heartbreaks. “The 2007 Super Bowl loss to the Giants still stings. That team was perfect—until they weren’t. It was devastating.”

But for Mike, it’s all part of the journey. “If you’re in it just for the wins, you’re not really in it. You’ve got to take the losses just as hard as you celebrate the victories.”

Why the Patriots Are More Than Just a Team

Being a Patriots fan isn’t just about what happens on the field—it’s about the memories, the traditions, and the people you share it with.

“It’s the rivalries, the rituals, and passing it down to the next generation. My son and daughter are already in their Patriots gear every Sunday—actually, pretty much all year,” Mike jokes.

For him, the Basement Militia is more than just a fan club. It’s a family.

“When you’ve got a room full of die-hard fans who live and die with every play, you’re not just watching football—you’re part of something bigger.”

And as the next season approaches, one thing is clear: win or lose, the Militia will be there—loud and proud.