A new era has changed the world of sports as we know it. It has invaded our school with vengeance in the past few years and shows no signs of slowing down.

Fantasy football is the game changer.

“It’s always fun to have some competition with your friends,” said Jackson Fuson (12), “What I like about fantasy football [is that] it’s so unexpected. You never know what’s going to happen.”

In fantasy football a player chooses his team from a pool of real NFL players. The players’ performance in the game reflects how they do for your team.

Drew Karchmer (11) doesn’t even have a favorite NFL team. His favorite team is his fantasy team.

Grant Slattery (12) writes a detailed review for his league every week.

Even Daniel Radcliffe, star of the Harry Potter films, express

Walking through the hallways and listening in my classes, I’ve noticed that everyone is talking about fantasy football. Whether it is a transaction, who they plan to start, draft strategies or just some friendly trash talking, fantasy dominates classroom discussion.

Fantasy football brings people of all ages and backgrounds together for one common goal: to hoist that trophy in Week 17.

“There’s no better feeling than just obliterating the other team,” said Fuson.

Yet, fantasy sports are not a completely new idea. People have engaged themselves in this virtual sports ownership since the 1980s.

Recent increases in participation can be attributed to the improvements in technology and social media. As of the 2013 season, 35 million people play this free game in the United States.

The 60% increase in fantasy football over the past four years could also be connected to the comedy The League. This show contains eccentric characters who will do nearly anything to win their league. In fact, The League has been an inspiration for fantasy owners across the nation.

The fantasy era has even changed how NFL players play the game. Green Bay Packers wide receiver Greg Jennings told Forbes writer Jeff Bercovici, “When a player says it doesn’t really bother them, they’re lying. That’s the politically correct answer. As players, it puts pressure on us to make sure we’re the liked player in that category. It plays with your mind.”