The coronavirus pandemic put a damper on many sports fan’s yearly rituals. As the virus spread through the United States, numerous leagues chose to cancel their season or disallow fans from filling the stands.
Now, most teams are back in the game and some are even allowing fans to purchase tickets again. As the pandemic peters out, this decision will restore revenue to sports teams and improve the morale and happiness of fans everywhere.
Whether you’re ready to return to the stadium or not, odds are you’ll be watching at least a few games this season. Why not support your team with more than the classic tailgate? After a year like 2020, both you and your favorite players could use a little extra encouragement.
Here are a few ways to do just that.
1. Make a Banner
Put your arts and crafts skills to work and make a banner for your favorite team or player. Whether you’re attending the game in person or watching from home, a bright, colorful banner is sure to attract attention and get countless likes from your fellow social media sports fans.
Grab some cardboard, poster board or fabric and break out the markers, paint, glitter and other craft supplies. Invite your friends over to drink some beer and decorate their own or let your kids join in on the fun.
2. Use Face Paint
Face paint is a common part of many ancient cultural practices but, in Western society, you most often see face paint at sporting events. Here, fans cover their face — or entire body — in team colors, patterns and symbols.
Join the wild side and paint your face, too! It doesn’t require an art degree and will certainly draw attention to your team, regardless of whether or not you paint straight lines. Use a makeup sponge to apply the principal color and a fine-tip paintbrush or facepaint marker to create your design.
3. Stock Up On Gear
Of course, it would be remiss if this article failed to mention donning your favorite sports gear. When game day rolls around, hardcore sports fans will dress head to toe in apparel that supports their team, favorite player or both.
Stock up on vintage jerseys or make your own t-shirts to show off your personality and interests. Use heat transfer vinyl materials to place a design on the shirt or paint one on if you have a steady hand.
4. Start a Chant
If you do decide to attend a game in person, one of the best ways to show support for your favorite team and hype up the crowd is to start a chant. Start with just a few words and make sure a friend will return your performative gesture. Once they do, other people will likely join in and begin chanting with you.
Don’t just limit your chants to the stadium, though. Bring them to tailgates, backyard barbecues and man cave watch parties. Cheer loud and proud for all to hear and teach your buddies a new chant. You might even make one up together if you’re feeling creative.
5. Try the Sport
It’s entirely possible to root for a team and predict every call without ever having played the sport yourself. However, there’s something about knowing what the players are feeling when they score a winning goal or make an incredible pass. So why not get out there and kick a soccer ball around or shoot some hoops?
Gather your fandom and hit the field or court. Get your blood pumping, break a sweat and maybe try something new. For instance, if your favorite football player trains on a rowing machine, grab some paddles and hop in a boat. Odds are you’ll have a few stories to tell and a new appreciation for your team when you’re done.
6. Learn the Traditions
There are countless traditions in the world of sports. Think terrible towels, Taylor University’s Silent Night and Red Wings fans throwing octopi on the rink. Of course, die-hard fans are well aware of these traditions, but the younger generation might not be.
Thus, it’s your responsibility to learn about these traditions, honor them and pass them on to the next generation of fans. Take your kids to the game and teach them about the importance — or lunacy — of your teams’ customs. Better yet, participate! Both your kids and the team will appreciate your enthusiasm and wisdom.
Try These Different Ways to Show Support for Your Favorite Team
When it comes to cheering on your team, it’s important to get outside your comfort zone and have a little fun sometimes. Go all in and celebrate those first few games back in the stadium by wearing a silly hat, painting your chest and making glittery banners.
If you can find a friend or two to do it with you, you’ll quickly forget your discomfort and lose yourself in the fanatics. Try these fun ways to show support for your favorite team and you’ll have a great time!
Oscar Collins is the managing editor at Modded. He writes about cars, fitness, the outdoors and more. Follow @TModded on Twitter for more articles from the Modded team.
