Competing against a rival team in sports, without a doubt, brings a whole new atmosphere and vibe to the game. The stakes are higher as both teams have an exorbitant desire to win and to do their absolute best. Rivalries can increase both performance and effort within the players, which then can also lead to an increase in engagement from the fans and the audience throughout the game. So, like most things and despite the many positive effects, it can also have its downsides.
One benefit rivalries can bring to sports is an increase in performance and the crowd’s engagement throughout the game or competition. Having rivalries in sports can bring out the best, skill-wise, in an athlete and push them to improve. One could argue that rivalries not only make the game more entertaining for the fans and keep them more engaged, but they can also increase the athletes’ and the teams’ overall performances. Some of the best rivalries in sports include the Michigan Wolverines and the Ohio State Buckeyes, the Dallas Cowboys and the Philadelphia Eagles, the Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Bears, the Los Angeles Lakers and the Boston Celtics, the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees, just to name a few (Britannica). While the most prominent cause of these teams’ successes are the great coaches and astounding amount of talent among the athletes, another reason for the accomplishments throughout the team is the fierce rivalry between opposing teams.
Although rivalries can have numerous positive and beneficial influences in sports, there can also be some drawbacks. Fans and athletes can certainly increase their competitive attitude throughout the game, but if taken too far, it can be harmful to the athletes in more ways than one. Unethical behavior among players and fans, such as cheating or unsportsmanlike conduct, can cause major disputes and problems throughout the game. Aggression can also cause problems if the fans and athletes take the friendly competition too seriously. Friendly competition between rivals is beneficial to both teams, but when taken too far, it can cause issues, whether between fans or athletes. One way people often can take rivalries too far is through social media. Even in high school, people can post offensive or insulting material toward the athletes or the opposing team in general, which could possibly lead to a decrease in mental health for the athletes.
While rivalries can have many encouraging aspects, they can also have some disadvantages and drawbacks in terms of sportsmanship and the game in general. Overall, the pros outweigh the cons when it comes to rivalries. Rivalries bring an important competitive aspect to every game and, in turn, increase the involvement and participation of the fans. Rivalries can increase productivity, player motivation, and overall provoke a better performance. It is important for the athletes and the fans to make sure not to take a little friendly competition too seriously and to be respectful of other people’s opinions.