Tuesday, January 6, 2009

How Soccer Shapes The Lives Of Fans

By Kevin Owen

Soccer fans all over the world look forward each week to following and watching their favorite teams play. The feeling they have is unrivalled in many aspects of their lives. Not only does this practice become a habit, but it borders on the religious.

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.

It can a once in a lifetime experience to visit a live soccer match and hear the boisterous atmosphere that permeates the occasion. The songs and cheers can often be heard even outside the stadium enclosures. Even the non-football fan cannot avoid feeling an exhilarating sensation influenced by the joy and passion from the fans.

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.

It is unavoidable that some dangerous paraphernalia will be present during games as well. Some of these include flares and bottles, while even something like a cigarette lighter can be used as weapons. Flares are still out for the jury, as proper use can add to the colorful scenes. But some of these objects have caused more harm than good in violent clashes between fans.

Most football games have minimal risks though, and are generally safe for fans of the sport. It is also difficult to not want to travel to games once the first time is done, as the enjoyment is unmatched for the most part. It is also common for fans to bring their families along when possible and that is what keeps the sport growing and fans returning to the grounds for the experience. - 15255

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