It's not always the players, coaches, stadiums or winning that makes a sports team part of our culture. It's often the fans.
Zema Williams, best known as "Chief Zee," died July 19 at the age of 75. You knew him regardless of whether you ever crossed paths. He was the guy who wore the American Indian outfit complete with a wonderful feather headdress.
Chief Zee loved the Redskins. He started wandering through the stands in 1978, and during 35 years, he missed only four home games. Health problems in recent years limited his appearances, but people always looked for him.
Chief Zee waved his tomahawk during games, fought with opposing mascots and endured a couple bad beatings himself by opposing fans at Philadelphia and New York games. He even rode a motorized scooter, reportedly purchased by Redskins owner Dan Snyder, in recent years to get around tailgate parties.
