Be a Gentleman at Football Games

Day 30 – Gamecock Football starts this Saturday.

Are you ready?

We have waited, prayed that Garcia hasn’t been permanently kicked off the team and received renewed excitement at the hype of the incoming and returning players. I am actually letting myself believe that this could be the year.

As Coach Spurrier ask, “Why not us?”

This could be our year. We have talent and we have depth not seen on our team since, well, ever.
With the arrival of football season, one has to prepare. You have to get the food and drinks for the tailgate, buy your tickets, brave Columbia traffic for home games, set up the tailgate, get into the stadium, and rave out to Sandstorm.

That’s a lot to keep on your plate, and you’re probably forgetting some of the important details such as sporting event etiquette.

Yes, etiquette. Contrary to what you may witness, you still have to be a gentleman at sporting games, especially Gamecock Football games.

So what are some pointers for sports etiquette? Here’s what I think will help you (as well as those attending the game with you) to have a more pleasant time.

1. Don’t drink too much prior to or during the game.

Yes, tailgating is about drinking and carrying on before you get to witness your team destroy their opponents. It’s like the celebration in anticipation of the annihilation of your opponent. Nevertheless, when you’re in the stadium, no one likes the drunk that is either causing a scene or cursing up a storm or, worse yet, puking all over the rows in front of him.

Drink, carry on, but know your limits. Especially on afternoon games when you’re more likely to get dehydrated.

2. Do trash talk the other team’s supporters, especially if they are in your team’s section.

Let’s be honest, trash talking is fun. If a supporter of the opposing team decides to sit in your team’s section, you have a right to ridicule them. However, just remember that what goes around comes around. So if your team starts fumbling, take their ridicule like a man.

3. Don’t become a soccer hooligan.

This isn’t Europe, and as fun as riots may sound, it’s just bad taste. Your team may be awesome and look to dominate this year, but that doesn’t mean that you should trash the town you will go to church in the following morning.

4. Do bring beer to the tailgate.

Not your tailgate? Doesn’t matter. If someone was kind enough to invite you to their tailgate (most likely providing food), be nice enough to bring beer or something to show that you don’t take their kindness for granted.

5. Do feel free to stand up and cheer.

Team just scored a touchdown? Stand up, high-five the guy next to you and rave when Sandstorm starts playing. However, if you feel like standing up after the action dies down, look around you. Is everyone else sitting? Don’t be that one guy that stands, blocking the view of the people behind you. Be considerate.

6. Don’t sit in the college section if you are not a college student.

Yea, you know the guy (or gal), who has already graduated but still wants to sit in the college section to feel young again. Don’t be that person. You have a real job now, let the college kids have their fun in their section and go sit with the adults. Who knows, you may even like it more.

Have I left any out?  Let me know below.