Nathan C.

Bearded since: 2004. I am an occasional or seasonal beard grower.

Comments:
I started growing my current beard as a result of the National Hockey League player lockout. During the playoffs in hockey it's a common practice for players, coaches, and fans to grow a beard as a sign of unity and dedication to the ultimate goal of winning a Stanley cup. I'm a die-hard Pittsburgh Penguins fan. Many of my nights during hockey season are spent watching games with friends or occasionally by myself. After the lockout started I felt like their was a void in my life. Football just isn't on regularly enough to consume my time. I do like basketball, but there is no professional team in Pittsburgh. So it's hard for me to stay focused or loyal to one team. My beard was essentially a coping mechanism for the sadness in my heart over the loss of my beloved hockey.

How do I feel about my beard? I love my beard. I'm always touching it or playing with it. I find myself gazing in the mirror quite frequently, admiring myself and my dedication.