Monday, December 29, 2008

How Soccer Shapes The Lives Of Fans

By Kevin Owen

Making the trip every week to catch their favorite soccer team playing is more than just a routine for fans. It is a lifelong ritual that defines the way they live and view the world. There is little surprise then that many actually believe in the late Bill Shankly's words, that football is more than just life and death.

There is much excitement on the way to any live soccer match. The process of creating the anticipation through loud cheers and singing does much to generate that. Joining other fans in large groups can do more to increase the levels of adrenalin and passion as tension builds up on the way to the football grounds.

Fans are also generally allowed to bring along banners they have made in support of their teams. These are often draped on their shoulders and around the stadiums. They can add color and life to otherwise normal grounds, especially in smaller venues.

Cheering for your favorite side is not restricted to within the stadiums. Many football fans enjoy singing songs and chanting cheers on their way to the match. This promotes camaraderie amongst the group and sets the tone for a carnival scene outside and within the ground.

This behavior continues unabated once the supporters have walked into the stadium stands. The singing and cheering can reach several decibels loud, and it is hard to prevent your hair standing on ends all over the body when experiencing it.

There are some clubs that allow fans to bring in other tools to pump up the atmosphere created within. Soccer fans are often seen banging on drums, using loudspeakers and whistles, to organize mass cheering. Some use inflated balloon sticks, as seen from South Koreans during the World Cup in 2002.

Attending soccer matches is not without its risks. There will always be troublemakers trying to disrupt or cause violence, especially when their teams do not perform. These hooligans will resort to using anything from coins and bottles, to flares and fireworks, to intimidate and harm others.

The animated happenings, passion of fans and other additional factors have made attending soccer matches an ever lively event for fans, family and friends. This has continued throughout generations as people flock to games in order to both experience the atmospheres and support their teams. - 16463

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