I think one of the biggest misconceptions this time of year is that March Madness is mainly for men.

Here’s a little litmus test for moms out there wondering if they can enjoy the NCAA basketball tournament as much as the average die-hard sports fan.

If you like to watch kids accomplish their goals, you’re in luck. Here’s a secret: College-aged boys are still boys. These players are entering one of the biggest arenas (figuratively and literally) of their lives. Instead of idolizing these players, realize they are someone’s son, grandchild, brother, and friend … and imagine how much pride they are feeling knowing they’ve made it to the big dance.

If you like to root for the underdog, this tournament is for you. As announced this morning, Creighton University will join the Big East Conference. Creighton will be leaving the Missouri Valley Conference, its home on and off since 1927. Missouri Valley squads aren’t traditionally  viewed as powerhouse teams in postseason play, so I’d personally love to see Creighton do well. Another fun fact: For the first time in 11 years, two Missouri Valley teams advanced to the NCAA women’s tournament.

If you like to embarrass the know-it-all sports fanatics, make sure you fill out a tournament bracket. There are few moments in life that are more gratifying than watching men scratch their heads in disbelief because you made superior predictions about which teams will walk away victorious. Read about how to make the most logical predictions, or do as I do, embrace dumb luck.

If you like to watch people lose their cool, keep your eyes on the boob tube. Otherwise, you might miss epic moments like this. In last year’s tournament, Creighton’s Grant Gibbs provoked a North Carolina player, who got a technical foul. Gibbs then walked over and winked at the Creighton bench. Calculated and effective.

If you want to speak the language of middle-aged former athletes everywhere, know the lingo. Here are some sayings you can choose to randomly shout out during game time: “DISH HIM THE BALL!” (on offense) “SHUT HIM DOWN!” (on defense) “ARE YOU BLIND?!” (to referee) “WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!” (anytime a coach subs players in/out) “TAKE HIM TO THE HOLE!” (tall guy capable of dunking) “BREAK HIS ANKLES” (short guy good at dribbling) “WHERE’S MY BEER?” (trust me, they ALL shout this)

If you want a reason to relax, the NCAA tournament gives you the perfect excuse. It’s a 68-team tournament, and it lasts from now through the championship game on April 8. I don’t know about you, but I think the laundry can wait. Mom needs to get her hoops on.