Top 10 Takeaways from Cheering Section Webinar
Is it just us, or is fan behavior worse than ever across the US? Due to COVID restrictions over the past 2 years, fans were not allowed to attend games in many states, and it seems that the built-up energy has caused many unfortunate instances of negative fan behavior to come to the surface.
In this webinar, we took a step back to look at what it takes to ensure you’re creating a positive culture in your organization and to remind fans of the importance of good behavior. This discussion was be led by some of PCA's most elite trainers with experience in High School Sports.
Top 10 Takeaways From This Discussion
- Setting expectations and consequences in place for student sections, parents, and players is crucial to ensure that the environment is positive, welcoming, and portraying schools in a positive light
- Keep in mind the acronym REACT (Relationships, Expectations, Accountability, Consistency, Team) and create your own motto for your school if there are more suitable concepts that fit your needs.
- Student sections are one of the main representations of the school. Consider what you want other people to know about your school and what you want them to think about your students, parents, coaches, and staff.
- Different schools have different cultures. When opposing teams visit your school or when your fans visit another school, act appropriately based on the culture you want to represent.
- Finding the right leaders for your student section is very important. Having the administration select students they feel will lead others in the right behavior can be effective. Then, reward those students who show the appropriate behavior.
- If negative behaviors arise at a game, be transparent with students, parents, faculty, and others about the issue. Be direct and intentional about what has happened.
- Express intolerance for negative, inappropriate behaviors and support the student(s) who were affected.
- Make sure your school’s cheers are positive and supportive of your own team instead of demeaning and attacking the opposing team and officials.
- Onboard new players and coaches to ensure that everyone is on the same page and a supportive, comfortable environment is created.
- Incorporate team bonding activities among teams from different schools to get to know one another better, allowing athletes to put a face to each other without a helmet or uniform on.
