How Soccer Shapes The Lives Of Fans
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.
Once inside the stadium, the effect can be manifested many times over. Stadium acoustics can amplify the sounds emanating from passionate fans, and grounds have been known to shake from this alone. It is hardly surprising this can become quite addictive, resulting in the desire from fans to attend every match possible to relive the experience.
To generate a lively mood, organized cheering and support sections within the stands are conducted. These are often supported using different methods and instruments. The Mexican Wave is one such phenomenon whereby fans jump up and down on their seats to create a wave-like effect across the turnstiles.
A common scene in Italian and Eastern European football matches is the use of flares. While this can be a danger risk to fans and players, they are allowed and can drench the whole stadium in color and smoke. Turkish fans are also famous for using them widely to create an intimidating atmosphere for visiting supporters.
With so much happening before and during soccer matches, it is no wonder that fans are so devoted to traveling in support of their teams. It not only shows their devotion, but the thrills and excitement of doing so can provide mood lifts whatever the situation. Many of them go on to do this for the rest of their lives, and even pass it on from generation to generation.
