violence in sport

Violence

Intense physical force that’s directed towards harming an individual, group or property

Examples of player violence

• Cameron Menzies smashing hand against table at world darts after losing in first round - caused nerve damage

• Luis Suarez bit opponents during matches - had multi month bans

Examples of spectator violence

• Monica Seles was stabbed in back by fan in the middle of a match - fan wanted stephi Graf to be number 1 instead

• Heysel stadium - Liverpool and Juventus fans clashed + wall collapse, resulting in 39 deaths + banned English clubs from Europe competitions

Causes of player violence

• provoked by opponents

• Nature of the game e.g. contact sports

• Drugs - testosterone

• Frustration agression - goals are blocked

• Pressure to play well

• Importance of game

Causes of spectator violence

• alcohol / drugs

• Poor security , overcrowding

• Hooliganism

• Imitating violence on the pitch

• Frustration at match result

• Importance of game - betting ?

Implications of violence on sport

• poor reputation

• Loss of sponsorship

• Reduces participation

• Can initiate changes in laws

Implications of violence on society

• normalises violent behaviour

• Puts off parents from letting children participate

• Sport = reflection of society - may show violence in society

Implications of violence on performer

• bans from competing

• Loss of income

• Injury

• Lack of trust from fans

Solutions for player violence

• helps athletes identity their triggers

• Anger management - arousal reduction strategy

• Coaching staff set good examples

Solutions for spectator violence

• each spectator has a specified seat

• Greater video surveillance so police can monitor spectators and intervene

• Away and home fans separated