Wednesday Cardinal Couple-- The Observer says... Behave!

Proper etiquette for football fans

(Editor’s Note: The following, compiled by Charlie Springer of UofLCardGame.com, includes suggestions for football fans. Most of them could apply to most other sports as well.)

Less than 45 days until the 2014 football season begins. Time again to update the rules of etiquette at University of Louisville football games.

Especially important as UofL prepares to join the Atlantic Coast Conference.

Everyone is familiar with fans who wind up at Papa John’s Cardinal Stadium oblivious to what’s happening on the field. Some of the rules are for them, other for people who grate on the nerves of fellow fans.

Most of these would apply to other sports, but they are often violated with impunity at PJCS so we’ll keep hammering at them until hell freezes over:

                    — Leave earlier to the get to the stadium. Every game will be a sellout this season.

                   

                    — Pack up the tailgate, be in your seat at kickoff.

                   

                    — Don’t cross in front of other fans to get to your seat in the middle of a play.  You are blocking the view of fans who actually care about the game.  Wait till the play is over. Wait till the play is over.

                   

                    — Know when to stand or not to stand. Nothing worse than someone standing up when nothing is happening, sometime affecting several rows of fans. (Hint: If you’re the only one standing in the section, there’s a problem).

                   

                    — Don’t be a negative neanderthal. There’s always some guy who thinks every play is terrible, every tackle is sloppy, any gain by the opposing team is poor defensive play, and thinks he’s the expert on play calling.

                   

                    — Limit social, non-football dialogue if possible. Your long time friends may actually be more interested in football at the moment.

                   

                    — Limit alcohol intake. Don’t spill beer — or your guts — on  fellow fans.

                   

                    — Watch your language. Difficult at times.  But coaches, players and officials can’t hear you. Only your seat neighbors who struggle to ignore you.

                   

                    — Don’t make a big show of leaving before the game is over.  Players notice. Coaches, too, especially those previously suspected of wandering eyes.

                    — Don’t wear apparel from opposing programs (there’s always one or two UK fans) unless your team is UofL’s opponent that day.

                    — Don’t sell or give your Louisville vs. UK tickets to Kentucky fans. Ever.