Fan Behavior and Technology

                Fans have been misbehaving since games first started being played.  The difference is that we are starting to notice the effect that their misbehavior is having on the remaining, well-behaved spectators.  Rules have been put in place because these events are meant to be family oriented, and out of control fans are crossing the line. 

                The "fan code of conduct" is one step that stadiums have taken to change the way that fans behave while at their stadium.  These codes require that fans refrain from unruly behavior, intoxication, foul language, interference with the progress of the game, etc.  Some venues have begun sending rules home to season ticket holders as well as advertising the rules in their venue.   Complaints about unruly fans are often handled over the phone.  Many teams have their own hotline that spectators can call if there is a problem and they will receive an instant response from ushers and security.  Pregame announcements are put up on video boards warning fans to behave.  As for alcohol sales, many facilities have alcohol-free sections, and most events stop serving alcohol at a certain point during the game.  All of these precautions have done a fantastic job to reduce problems in arenas, stadiums and other venues.

                Websites such as youtube.com are relatively new.  Nowadays, fans are able to videotape fights in the stands and put them on such websites.  Venues are currently attempting to confiscate these videos so that they do not leak out for the public to see, but doing so brings up many legal issues.  For example, the creator of a video has copyright privileges which can only be transferred through a written contract.  Venues have a couple of options in this situation, but not very many.  They can either place a restriction on all videotaping in their facility, or appeal directly to the website that these videos are being posted on so that the website will not allow them anymore. 

                Another new technology in sporting facilities is that fans now have the ability to report problems via text.  Fans can now alert stadium officials to a problem in the venue without having to leave their seat to find an usher or security guard.  This is also completely confidential, so the fan does not have to worry about another person getting mad about being reported.  Currently, twenty-six of the thirty-two NFL teams use this texting system.  It is expected to be used by all NFL teams by the end of this season. 

                All of these new technologies have helped sporting venues to keep fans safe while inside the venue.  They have also helped to maintain the family values of sporting events so that a parent can bring their children to such an event without worrying about what their child will hear or see while at the game.