There’s something about being an avid fan that brings excitement, joy and a feeling of community.
Our deep bond with our team can sometimes bring us feelings of pride and happiness. Our teams can also cause us to feel great frustration, anger, or heartbreak.
Why do we become so emotionally attached to our favorite teams? What keeps us interested and coming back for more of our favorite teams?
A Feeling of Belonging
The sense of belonging is one of the reasons why people are attracted to sports teams.
Being a sports fan can create a lasting bond with others, whether it is through social media or fan clubs.
Supporting a team makes you part of a community with a shared goal. You all want to watch your team succeed.
Fans of local teams can feel a strong sense of belonging, especially if they have a personal attachment to the city or area that the team represents.
Social Identity
Your team’s affiliation can reflect your own personal identity. You may be expressing yourself by choosing to support one team over another.
You may admire the team for its commitment to teamwork and fair play, or you might identify with their tough attitude. You may be a fan of their “underdog” spirit or their ability to overcome obstacles and come back stronger.
Your sports team can become a part your story and you will be proud to be associated.
The thrill of competition
Nothing can compare to the excitement of seeing your team win, the nervous anticipation of the last seconds, or the adrenaline rush as the game is on the line.
The thrill and excitement of sports is one of the main reasons why people get into sports. It allows you to be a part of the game, and experience its highs and lows with the players.
It can be gratifying and inspiring to see your favorite team succeed. When your favorite team is struggling, you may feel frustrated and disappointed. You can also be influenced by their wins and losses. When your team is winning, you might feel more optimistic and confident in your own efforts. But a loss could make you feel defeated and lower your self-esteem.
Nostalgia & Tradition
Many people associate their love of sports with their memories of childhood and youth. You may have watched your favorite team play as a child and fondly remember cheering on the team with family and friends.
Continue to watch the team you love play and it can be a great way to connect with your past.
You can also pass on your passion for the sport and the legacy of your favorite sports team to your children. And beyond just the team itself and the sport being played, you pass on the values the game represents–discipline, perseverance, resilience, teamwork, courage, and commitment.
The passion and excitement that comes with being a football fan cannot be matched by anything else. Each game is a rollercoaster of highs, lows, and emotions that keeps you invested and engaged all season.