Spectator behaviour Flashcards
What are the advantages of spectators ?
Cremation of atmosphere: A large crowd creates excitement, interest and enjoyment, as the players are more motivated and there is interaction among fans. The more positive the experience the more fans will want to attend, raising the
income and profile of the sport or event, leading to increased participation.
Home-field advantage: Teams and individual
performers can gain an advantage from being in familiar surroundings,
with fan support and degree bias ( where the referee might make decisions in your favour) When the majority of the spectators are cheering for you, you feel lifted by their support and so you play better.
What are the disadvantages of spectators ?
Increased pressure: For a performer, knowing that the audience really wants your team to win can increase anxiety levels. This can cause the player to become over aroused and their performance level to
drop.
Safety costs/concerns: It is expensive to
employ security staff and security equipment, and to repair damage caused audience behaviour.
Negative effect on participation numbers among younger
performers: The poor
reputation of a sport,
due
to audience behaviour, can cause a drip
in the number of younger people
interested and therefore a loss of potential elite performers.
Potential for crowd trouble/hooliganism : Hooliganism may stop real fans attending owing to potential harm,
leading to the loss
of ticket sales,
support and sponsorship.
what are the reasons for hooliganism?
- Rivalries
-Hype (from media) - Fuelled by alcohol/drugs
- Gang culture
- Frustration ( at official’s decisions)
- Display of masculinity
What are the strategies to prevent hooliganism ?
- Bans: hooliganisms banned from travelling abroad or attending matches; teams banned from playing
-Fines: for supporters or clubs
- Prison: for damage to others or property
- Increased security: Cctv, metal detectors
- Segregation: seating opposing team supporters in separate areas for matches.
- Early kick-offs: to prevent drinking of alcohol
- All-seater stadia: more orderly if seated.
- Alcohol restriction: such as none at venues
- Education: promotional campaigns
