How To Be A Better Sports Fan
Does being a sports fan have to feel like a part time job? Well no of course not, but those who have followed a losing team for a while or enjoy it as their main hobby, have friendships through it and use no uncertain amount of their financial standing to the passion may think so. When you see your team get relegated or your manager making questionable decisions you may wonder why you bother. But the nail-biting tense experiences, the history, the golden moments of triumph, all of this makes us remember why we follow sports so closely.
An interesting question comes from this. What makes a better sports fan? We’re not going to list anything that would roll your eyes like stop the courtside banter against the other team (within appropriate limits of course), or that you have to buy merchandise or spend more to be of higher value in that community.
But of course, there are ways to be a healthy sports fan, and reasons for doing so, as it can help you gain more out of the sport you love. In this post, we’ll discuss what that approach might entail:
Check Out Smaller Or International Leagues
We of course find that the big leagues get all the attention, including all the impressive TV deals, and all the merchandise. But some of the most passionate fan experiences happen in smaller leagues, because the connection between players and supporters feels more personal.
Lower-division teams often play with heart that rivals any championship squad, because they want to prove themselves and aren’t international figures. The stadiums might be smaller, the hotdogs might be cheaper, but the atmosphere can be incredible. You’ll find players who aren’t making millions but are playing purely for the love of the game.
This can also help you see different cultures and interpretations on the sport you love. For instance, football (soccer) in South America has an entirely different culture than in Europe. Baseball in Japan is really quite striking. There’s a reason why those who sports bet watch international leagues with or without a free spins no deposit option, and it’s because it’s just more fun to enjoy.
Support Women’s Or Youth Leagues Too
Now, we’re not going to browbeat you and suggest that unless you’re watching an equal amount of games per gender you’re not good or enlightened enough. There’s nothing wrong whatsoever about sticking to the league you like. But the truth is that women’s sports have grown tremendously but still don’t get the attention they deserve. The skill level is often exceptional, and the games can be just as thrilling as men’s competitions.
Think about Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano who fought before that mockery of the Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul fight, they gave it their all and were the real ones to watch that night. Women are doing incredible things and it’s smart to support them.
The WNBA, women’s soccer, or women’s hockey leagues also have amazing athletes pushing their sports forward. The playing styles often differ from men’s leagues too, sometimes emphasizing different aspects of skill or strategy which can feel like a breath of fresh air to enjoy.
Attend Little League Games For Your Child
Of course, nothing connects you to a sport quite like watching your kid play it. Little league games bring sports back to their purest form, which is to play for the sake of play.
That reminds you what sports are really about, not million-dollar contracts or sponsorship deals, but teamwork, personal growth, and fun.
Sometimes, being a sporting fan is just sharing your passion for a sport and going along with it if your child likes it too. Or maybe they really love another option, like gymnastics, one of the most impressive sports out there, and that gives you a reason to learn more about it. A better sports fan doesn’t turn his nose up at any sport, because there’s something to love in all of it. Of course, if you don’t think breakdancing should be at the Olympics, that’s not necessarily going to disqualify you, but don’t discount others either.
Head To Fundraisers & Charitable Drives
Many teams and players run foundations or support causes in their communities. Getting involved with these efforts shows you the positive impact sports can have in many different areas of life, and it’s people like you who make that difference.
Of course, fundraising events may also let you meet players in more relaxed settings. You might chat with an athlete about their charity work rather than just asking for an autograph even. These little ways of contributing to the life of the club, not necessarily with your money but your time, can transform how you see the people you cheer for every weekend, and you’ll be a credit to your colors.
With this advice, you’re sure to be the kind of sports fan any team would love to have.
