European vs. US FansIs there really a difference?

European Sporting Event Crowd

US Sporting Event Crowd

Main Points Europe

Focus on fan culture from a European point of view

US

Focus on fan culture from a US point of view

Education Europe

International Adult Education,

Culture and International Ed.

Identities and International Ed.

US

International Adult Education,

Culture and International Ed.

Identities and International Ed.

Similarities Europe

-Love for the sport

-The culture of the sport

-Comradely

-Entertainment

US

Love for the sport

-The culture of the sport

-Comradely

-Entertainment

Differences Europe

(Atmosphere) More rowdy, dangerous and fear for life.

US

More laid back and controlled environment.

Focus Europe

Support/WIN

US

Support/Have a good time

Strengths Europe

European fans: this is a way of life. A tradition, and lifestyle. That shows determination and dedication

US

Sportsmanship. US fans can still support their teams with respect to their opponent and their fans. Shows strong character

Weaknesses Europe

Sometimes shows lack of self discipline and judgment

US

Passion and loyalty to team

Recommendations

Europe

EU fans should take a page out of US fans book of strengths

US

US fans should take a page out of EU fans book of strengths

References: Europe

Fort, R. (2000). European and North American Sports Differences. Scottish Journal of Political Economy, Vol. 47, No. 4

US

Markovits, A. (2011) Sports Fans across Borders: America from Mars, Europe from Venus. Harvard International Review.