The Olympic torch began its journey across the globe on October 7, lighting the way across Russia from Moscow to Sochi in preparation for the beginning of the opening ceremonies on February 7.

Viewers and attendees don’t have to be a sports fan to be excited. It is not hard to to get excited for the Olympics if you love your country because the event seems to bring out patriotism in those that it didn’t realize it as there.

What will be new in this year’s games?

Several new events will be featured. The women’s ski jump, new relay events in the luge and biathlon, and a team figure skating competition will be held, along with the long-awaited halfpipe and slopestyle competitions in freestyle skiing,  a slopestyle event on snowboard, and a parallel slalom race.

Fans of the Olympics are ready for the games to begin. Each has their own favorite event to watch

“I can’t wait for the start of the Olympics, the USA is going to take the Gold medal in hockey I just know,” said senior Chris Huster.

“My family and I get together on the couch and just watch the figure skating competitions for hours. It is a very underrated sport and deserves to get more credit,” said senior Ryan Forry.

“I’ve looked up to Shaun White for so long and have been aching for 4 years to see him in action again, I’ve got what they call “a crush” on his talent and what he can do,” said senior Mark Giberson.

The Olympic games bring out patriotism and excitement for many sports that don’t get a lot of attention at other times. On February 7, TV viewers can expect to hear the famous chant “USA! USA!) echoing throughout the Sochi arena.