Rockhurst Sentinel

Issue date: 10/16/06 Section: Opinion

The sports season here at the Rock is underway with the soccer and volleyball teams competing on the field and court, and the basketball season is just around the corner. With that in mind, I think this would be a good time to address proper fan etiquette. I figure if we get this out of the way now, we should be well-prepared for the big Notre Dame game coming up. Keep in mind, there is a different code of conduct for a normal game as opposed to a rivalry or playoff/tournament game. We'll focus mainly on the regular, ordinary game. So here's the list:

1. A fan goes to the game to cheer for his team, not necessarily against the opponent.
You're there for your team, so keep the opposing team taunts to a minimum. This is especially true when including the use of names. No reason to make things personal because chances are that athlete could dominate you in that specific sport.

2. Group cheers belong in groups. Keep it that way.
Organized clapping is different complimentary clapping. Organized clapping includes a distinct rhythm and beat, sometimes accompanied by a specific cheer. Complimentary clapping is applause, showing appreciation for a good play. It can be done by individuals, groups, or groups of individuals. Organized clapping, however, can only achieve its end purpose with large groups, usually more than 10. It should not be implemented by less than 5 people. This is when you begin to look foolish and at times, arrogant.

3. Keep high school cheers where they belong - in high school!
'Start the buses! Start the buses!' Do I really have to say anything else, because I think that says it all.

4. Use props properly.
Air horns have their moments in a game, but they are not every 2 minutes. Keys and cowbells should be left at home, unless the keys are needed to get you home. In that case, keep them in your pocket.

5. Your cheering as a fan should be secondary to the game at hand.
This is an important one. Never should a fan's antics draw attention away from the team he or she is supporting. The fan, as well as others, comes to watch the TEAM, not some ignorant buffoon jumping around in and out of his seat like a sideshow freak. This is not only disrespectful to the fans around you, but it is disrespectful to the team. A fan is not a self-centered being, but a part of the team, a non-playing participant who puts the team before himself. Remember that if you find yourself drawing attention away from the team and the game.

Continued...

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