Athletes are not the only people who are a crucial part of the game plan at any sporting event. Fans too have a significant role to play. In fact, sports fans can make or break any event, season, and championship. The connection that sports fans create with their preferred game is so powerful that it inspires the Houston Chronicle to declare that, “we wear our team colors like a badge of honor,” and inspires the publication to describe a dedicated sports fan as “a warrior, stalwart in the face of adversity and always there for battle.” Indeed, fans are so important to a sporting community that their presence is considered vital by the Coral Sea Magic Rugby League team, whose players maintain that, “the real heroes at Coral Sea Magic Rugby League Club, are the fans.”
That said, enjoying the energy of a game while supporting your team does not come without risks. That is why the Brisbane Manchester United Supporters Club (BMUSC) always seeks to promote appropriate “sportsmanship” during its events, and why BMUSC reminds its members that, “it’s always better in a group.”
To be sure, a fan has a very important role when it comes to “making” or “breaking” an event, tournament, or season. Fans have a critical role to play when it comes to fostering a positive atmosphere, and a healthy community. As such, fans must be mindful of how their actions (or inactions) can impact the game and overall experience of those around them. Their actions can also impact the game experience of fans and players thousands of miles away.
When attending a game or match, fans should opt for gear that is lightweight and non-intrusive. Indeed, sports fans should be mindful of the clothing and accessories they wear as well, lest they hurt other guests, harm employees, or damage property during a sporting event. Such forethought will help to ensure that every fan can enjoy the event, and it will help the event coordinators and security teams avoid unnecessary disputes. Meanwhile, choosing gear that is legal will help to ensure that that fans continue to be welcomed at this, and all other great sporting events.
Understanding the laws of your region is not just important when attending a game. Sports fans should also make an effort to understand the legality of the gear that they choose to bring from one city (or country) to another. After all, what may be legal attire or accessories in one area may be entirely unacceptable in another. This simple knowledge can make a major difference while away from home.
Brass knuckles, for instance, are a prime example of an item that may be viewed differently based on where a person travels. In Idaho, for example, laws like I.C. ยง 18-3302 define are brass knuckles legal in idaho as any instrument, or part of an instrument that is “made or adapted for the purpose of being worn on, or carried about the person, and projected beyond the hand for the purpose of inflicting injury on any person that is held by the human hand.” In simpler terms, brass knuckles are considered illegal in Idaho because they are viewed as an item that can cause harm to others. This law includes any cast metal, plastic, or metal-knuckled gloves or shields. Violating this is punishable by up to six months in prison and up to a $1000 fine.
While knowing the local laws is of the utmost importance, fans should think twice about using an item like brass knuckles for “self-defense.” Doing so may open the users up to legal issues of another kind. For instance, as this article on the legality of self-defense in Idaho implies, using equipment like a brass knuckle for “self-defense” may not be viewed as a sound or reasonable use of force if the incident were taken to court. Instead, using a less injurious item, such as simply removing yourself from the conflict may be the most advisable way to handle such a situation.
Though the BMUSC has not yet seen an incident that would warrant any legal action and hopes to keep it that way, Brisbane, Queensland, and its surrounding areas are not immune from violent crime. In fact, in July 2019 alone, Brisbane had a reported increase of 17.22% violent crime incidents, with decreases in motor vehicle thefts and home burglary offenses. Incidents of violence should be expected at any major sporting event; however, ensuring fans are aware of the laws and legalities of every place they travel throughout the season will certainly help to reduce any unnecessary or unplanned disputes.
This legal knowledge, moreover, will help to ensure fans are aware of the community’s insistence that bystanders and fans alike are treated with care whether they are at home, or 8,400 miles away in a far-away city. Indeed, being mindful of safety gear, and learning about their legality will certainly help fans remain as positive and carefree as any “warrior” or “hero” of a fan can be.
As every Manchester United supporter knows all too well, this team plays hard. It stands to reason that you will be expected to play hard too, wherever you go to watch a game or support the squad. With everyone playing hard, together, safe and responsibly, the entire community can enjoy a season full of incredible matches.
For more information on laws regarding self-defense, you can visit Nolo’s guide on self-defense laws.