Sports Fans

Maybe it’s genetic – I can’t recall any family members expressing any interest in professional sports. But, my aversion to pro sports and especially to its rabid devotees became conscious and full-blown during my three years of law school in Washington, DC. During football season, the mood of the entire city seemed solely dependant upon the performance of the Redskins. A win brought smiles and cheery Hellos – a loss meant a nasty, snarling populace.

Either way, the talk was all about how well or poorly “we” had played, or how “my” players had performed. Mind you, none of these folks were players, coaches or owners of the Redskins. This level of empathy and vicarious participation simply baffles me. And when it raises itself to physical violence against the respectively rabid fans of the opposing teams, it seems time for some serious reflection on insanity of it all.

And then there is the financial side of the fan equation. In the US, we spend about $400 billion a year on pro sports tickets, advertising, paraphernalia and concessions. That’s a lot of money to watch a small group of (admittedly superb) athletes play games.

Now, I’ve got nothing against playing sport games. It’s wonderful for the mind and body. Everyone who is physically able should play and everyone can play at some sport or another – for their entire life, if possible. Supporting and cheering those at the high school level is likely a good thing. Especially since the use of “my” and “our” is more appropriate when it’s your kids or friends on the team.

How about being “fan”atical about appreciating this amazing planet and supporting and cheering for its inhabitants ? Or becoming a fan of kindness, generosity and caring ? That’s something I can CHEER about.