Rugby fans exhibit respect others could follow

Rugby's proof that fans can cohabitate in peace, even among most bitter of rivals

With the recent brutal assault of a Giants supporter by Dodger fans after a baseball game in L.A., it is time once again for the sporting world to take stock of what is expected from its fans.

If anyone needs proof that fans can cohabitate in peace, even among the most bitter of rivals, they should go to a rugby match.

Photo courtesy: (BBC.co.uk)

The fact that this occurred in the first place is no longer surprising. That it is no longer surprising is unconscionable. Adding to the incredulity that so-called sports fans can behave so violently is the number of people who agree that wearing the away team's jersey in an unfriendly stadium merits such an assault. Monday, when asked how this sort of event can be prevented in the future, ESPN's Skip Bayless offered, "...under no circumstances should you ever wear your jersey or your cap to a rival's stadium."

That's crazy. He's dead wrong. Think of the ramifications of this ridiculous notion. Why not just suggest that fans not cheer for their team, or how about just sell tickets to the home fans. If anyone needs proof that fans can cohabitate in peace, even among the most bitter of rivals, they should go to a rugby match.

And as rugby continues to explode in the United States, it is imperative that its global ethos becomes embedded and even marketed in its growth.

For instance, watch a Wales v. England match. They hate each other, yet they'll sit cozily side by side, alternately belting their anthems, "God Save Our Queen" and "Land of My Fathers." And yes they'll both be wearing their team's colors. At the end of the game, there will be a friendly handshake and a tacit agreement to hate each other all the same next year. But nobody gets hurt.

The acceptance of others whose team you despise is bedrock in the rugby tradition. And as rugby continues to explode in the United States, it is imperative that its global ethos becomes embedded and even marketed in its growth. There is a reason why New Zealand All-Blacks fans can sit amicably beside South African Springboks fans during a test match without pummeling each other. It is because the fans of this game share an esprit de corps that is simply lacking in others sports.

The common thread is respect: respecting the courage of the players, respecting the fans even if they won't stop singing "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot," and respecting the history of the game. In rugby, the phrase "Leave it all on the field" not only means that players should give their best effort, it also refers to leaving any anger or animosity there as well. This is underscored by the post-match tradition that brings the rivals together to break bread and raise a glass. This sets rugby apart.

It's a game, after all. If American players are taught to honor the sport, and fans embrace the tradition of civility, there will be even more reason for the crowds to follow.

...Respecting the courage of the players, respecting the fans... and respecting the history of the game.

Want more on info about awesome rugby fans: Rugby fans set the gold standard @ BBC blogs