With loud music, parking lot parties, the smell of weed and the abundance of beer cans on the ground, I know it’s that time of year—football season.
Growing up as a cheerleader from elementary through middle school, you would think I would care a lot more about football. The reality is I really couldn’t care less. I’m not too fond of writing from the perspective of someone who doesn’t understand or care about sports. I don’t want to be viewed as a woman who doesn’t understand sports because I am too busy doing my makeup and buying overpriced coffee. The reason I don’t care for sports is not because I am a woman, it’s just because it’s not my scene.
I believe that everyone should be able to be excited about the things they enjoy. Suppose I can talk non-stop about a new book by Natasha Preston. There is no reason why students can’t be excited about a huge rivalry game. Having friendly competition is important. According to Rethink Risk in their article “Is Competition Good? Understanding Its Impact and Benefits,” having competition is beneficial for innovation and self-motivation. Being a part of something you can be proud of is important, and it helps you be more in touch with those around you.
Like most other football games, the student section is filled with students bonding and celebrating together, cheering on their peers and their school. While I don’t feel comfortable in large and loud groups of people, I admire the essence of the student section. I love seeing all the makeup and the positive energy, seeing it makes me feel a part of the crowd without being physically in the section.
Like any other fan group, I worry if we’re crossing a moral line. The Anchor Bone Classic rivalry is a great example of this. We’ve all heard stories of fights breaking out and disrespect happening around campus and community environments. Football is supposed to be fun and exciting, it doesn’t matter if you’re on the field or in the stands, the sport is a community. I attended one Ferris versus Grand Valley game during my freshman year at Ferris. The line was long, and I remember getting looks from Grand Valley students. I could feel the tension even outside of the field.
Inside, it was even worse. Students were yelling at one another, and the entire football field was impossible to navigate. When my friend and I did find a place to watch, we were shoved aside by a grown man. I felt overwhelmed and out of place, even as a student. With so many insults yelled out to players and students, I am starting to wonder where we draw the line from friendly competition to bullying and harassment. According to the Cambridge English dictionary, harassment is any action that annoys or upset someone. In this case, it is important to reflect on what we say before we say them.
If you intend to go to the Anchor Bone Classic game, I encourage you to be safe. Be aware of the differences between friendly banter and harassment. We can compete while still being genuine people. Represent Ferris as a school you are proud to be a part of instead of a school that tears others down.