Respecting the Game: Etiquette and Spirit in Sports Viewing

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• 刊登日期: 2024-10-14 15:31:36
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Respecting the Game: Etiquette and Spirit in Sports Viewing

Certified international Business Etiquette Trainer

Ms Cathy Yang

The recent Olympic Games not only ignited a passion for sports but also served as a grand celebration of international cultural exchange and the spirit of athletics. In this exhilarating moment, athletes showcased their talents while spectators cheered for them. Watching sports has become a shared entertainment activity for many.

This growing enthusiasm has brought attention to the importance of viewing etiquette. Sports viewing etiquette is a vital way to demonstrate respect, grace, and civility in sports venues. It not only reflects individual image but also affects the overall quality and atmosphere of the viewing environment. Improper viewing etiquette can impact not only one’s personal image but also the emotions of other spectators and, unintentionally, the performance of the athletes. The significance of viewing etiquette cannot be overlooked. Proper etiquette allows us to respect the hard work and efforts of the athletes, maintain order during events, and collectively create a harmonious and enjoyable viewing environment. By adhering to proper viewing etiquette, we showcase our personal refinement and qualities while experiencing the joy and inspiration that sports bring.

Appropriate viewing behavior ensures a quality experience while respecting fellow spectators and participating athletes. Here are some suggestions for proper viewing etiquette:

1. Maintain Appropriate Conduct

• Avoid Disruptive Movement: Choose an appropriate spot to watch the game, avoiding unnecessary movement that blocks others' views or disrupts their experience.
• Keep Noise Levels Moderate: Cheer and applaud appropriately during the event, but avoid excessive shouting or noise that may distract other spectators and athletes.
• Use Mobile Devices Responsibly: When taking photos, refrain from using flash to avoid startling the athletes.

2. Maintain Cleanliness and Order

• Dispose of Trash Properly: Keep the environment clean by disposing of trash in designated bins during the event.
• Respect Venue Regulations: Follow the venue's rules, including not moving or damaging equipment, to maintain order and cleanliness.

3. Appropriate Seating and Behavior

• Sit Properly: Remain in your assigned seat and do not occupy others' seats or aisles.
• Respect Fellow Spectators: Avoid distracting others during the event, respecting their right to enjoy the game, regardless of which team they support, and maintain civil behavior.

Spectators should remain quiet, avoiding loud noises or disruptive actions during the event. This not only helps athletes focus and perform at their best but also provides a pleasant viewing atmosphere for other spectators. During events, refrain from using mobile phones, engaging in loud conversations, or any actions that may disrupt the flow of the game. Many events prohibit the use of flash photography to avoid disturbing athletes and to ensure the smooth progression of the competition. Such rules must be adhered to by spectators to maintain the quality of the viewing environment. Respect for athletes, referees, and basic civility forms the foundation of all viewing etiquette.

“Why is it so noisy at the shooting competition?” “Is Fan Zhendong signaling to turn off the flash?” As the various events at the Paris Olympics unfolded, "viewing etiquette" trended, sparking widespread discussion. However, improper viewing etiquette can negatively impact different sports to varying degrees.

• Shooting Sports: Recently, spectators have been allowed to cheer during shooting competitions. Traditionally, maintaining silence was seen as essential because shooting requires precision, creating a conducive environment for athletes. However, the International Shooting Sport Federation has introduced reforms to enhance the spectator experience, allowing cheers at any time during competitions.
• Diving: Diving is inherently dangerous; any distraction could lead to injury. Athletes must complete intricate aerial maneuvers and enter the water with precision, requiring their full concentration. For instance, British diver Tom Daley requested a re-dive during the 2012 London Olympics due to being distracted by a flash, ultimately winning a bronze medal.
• Table Tennis: In table tennis, players rely on sound to determine the spin of the ball. Therefore, spectators should refrain from applauding during serves and returns, as this can affect the athletes' performance.
• Tennis: As one of the four major sports, tennis has specific etiquette requirements, including dress codes. During matches, spectators should not chat, make noise, or move around, as it disrupts players. Movement is only acceptable during the 90-second breaks when players switch sides.

4. Correctly Respecting Athletes' Efforts and Performances

Recently, a national table tennis champion mentioned that with the advancement of information technology, spectators now focus not just on the sport itself but also on the athletes' personal lives. The "fan culture" has begun to subtly influence their training and lives, affecting their mental state during competitions. "Losing leads to criticism, while winning seems equally scrutinized." Moreover, some athletes' homes have become tourist attractions, making it difficult for their families to have privacy. Such adoration can be overwhelming.

Ultimately, one of the core aspects of viewing etiquette is respecting the athletes' efforts and performances. Every athlete exerts immense effort and sweat on the field, and each performance deserves our respect and appreciation. Spectators should approach each athlete with respect, offering them the acknowledgment and support they deserve, irrespective of the outcome.

It is natural for spectators to feel joy for athletes' remarkable performances and concern in challenging situations. The excitement of a sport or a match stems from the mutual engagement between athletes and spectators—athletes draw courage and strength from the support of the audience, while spectators resonate with the athletes' spirit of perseverance and ambition. However, failing to understand the specific viewing etiquette for various events can lead to disruptions for both athletes and other spectators, which is counterproductive. As more people enter the arena to watch competitions, it is hoped that they will carry not only their love for the sport but also respect and civility.