Spectator behaviour

• Positive influences of spectators at matches/events:

  • creates a better atmosphere
  • provides a home- field advantage to teams and individuals- louder/ more cheering
• Negative influences of spectators at matches/events:

  • increased pressure from fans which ca have a negative effect on performance
  • risks of hooliganism
  • safety concerns/ costs
  •  negative effect on participation numbers amongst younger performers
  • less young supporters as they can be dissuaded to attend due to violence
• Hooliganism- rowdy, aggressive and sometimes violent behavior of fans and spectators of sport
• Causes of hooliganism:

  • rivalries between fans- built up by press and media so they seem more important
  • hype- causes fans to take match to seriously
  • fueled by alcohol and drugs- fuel aggression and violence
  • gang culture- feel less responsible for actions because they are in a group
  • frustration, eg. officials decisions, how the match is going
  • display of masculinity- proving themselves to be more superior
• Methods to prevent hooliganism:

  • early kick-offs- before local pubs open to reduce alcohol consumption
  • all-seater stadiums- safer, no chance of overcrowding
  • segregation of fans- no close contact rivalries
  • improved security- higher police presence, increase in trained stewards, CCTV
  • alcohol restrictions- grounds often dnt sell it, clubs close early
  • travel restrictions/banning orders-known hooligans report to police stations at match times
  • education/promotional activity/campaigns and high profile endorsements- campaigns and promotional activities launched to educate fans