Attending high school football games is a beloved tradition that brings students, families and the community together. It’s the perfect opportunity to cheer for your team, catch up with friends and enjoy snacks. However, with all the excitement comes the responsibility of practicing good etiquette. Here’s a guide to help navigate the stadium while being a good fan.
Respect for players and participants is key. Whether you’re wearing school colors or supporting the other team (which should be unlikely), it’s essential to honor the players, cheerleaders, coaches and officials. These athletes and coaches spend countless hours in practice and deserve to be respected. “Students and fans at the football game (and any school-sponsored event) are there representing the school and the community. We have so many talented athletes and we’re incredibly proud of them and put a lot of faith in them. It’s important to remember that every person out there on the field on both teams is there for a love of the sport, a love of their team, and a love of their community. Appropriate respect for the work that they’re doing and the effort that they’re putting in is always expected,” Administrator Gillian Ratti said.
Next up is behavior. At high school games, there is a diverse crowd, including families and younger fans. While it is acceptable to celebrate a touchdown, it is wise to keep the celebration appropriate. Avoiding profanity and not getting overly rowdy will help you avoid trouble with security. Cheer and uplift your team and try not to disrespect the opposing team as well. Rivalry and competition are part of the fun but try to leave the negative comments out. “It is important to be respectful to both teams because we work hard to perform for the fans and we appreciate the cheering but we want it to be positive to everyone,” junior Vikram Mishra said.
Arriving early and staying until the end is also part of the game day experience. Getting to the stadium before kickoff (usually from 6:30 to 7 p.m.) allows fans to soak in pre-game excitement. There is also the option of the BBQ Club tailgate, which starts around two hours before the game begins. Tailgates are a fun experience and recommended to students before the game. Staying until the end shows true loyalty. Leaving early is a rookie move. There is so much that can be missed when leaving early, like a possible comeback or last-minute touchdown.
Respect other’s personal space and stand in your assigned spot. Games can get crowded, and no one wants to be hit or pushed in the stands. Traditionally seniors are in the front, followed by juniors, sophomores and freshmen in the back. Be considerate of others, don’t stand in other grade spots and avoid standing on the stairs or in front of the bleachers. If you need to move, be quick and avoid loitering so no one gets hurt or in trouble. “Each grade will get to experience each spot in the stands so it’s important to be respectful of other grades. Being with your friends is also important because the games can bring you and your friends closer together,” senior Shayan Kurup said.
