What is “Enjoy The Match” all about?

The Football League launched a new campaign, for the 2008/09 season, aimed at encouraging even more families to attend matches at their local League club. The ‘Enjoy the Match’ campaign aims to ensure parents can take their children to matches in a family-friendly environment. It will focus on removing abusive language and aggressive behaviour from family areas. Each participating club will proactively steward family areas and display prominent signage discouraging anti-social behaviour. Additionally, clubs will play a PA announcement, voiced by local children, to encourage positive support before each match. In the run-up to the new season each club’s manager and playing staff will be will be underlining their support by signing a pledge board which will be displayed in the family area of the ground. Supporters are being encouraged to show their support for the campaign by signing the online pledge at www.enjoythematch.co.uk. The Football League is supporting the campaign with a range of club guidance & resources, matchday programme ads, viral video and a promotional campaign. Enjoy the Match has been introduced following a ‘mystery shopper’ exercise staged at all 72 League grounds last season. This exercise revealed that swearing formed a key negative impression on families at 46% of the 144 games assessed. In launching ‘Enjoy the Match’ Football League Chairman, Lord Mawhinney, said: ‘Young supporters will be the lifeblood of our clubs in years to come. It is therefore vitally important that we encourage more parents to bring their children into our grounds by creating a vibrant, family friendly atmosphere at all matches.’

What makes a good Football Supporter in 2023 – 2024?

Good football spectators are individuals who attend football (soccer) matches and conduct themselves in a manner that promotes a positive and enjoyable experience for themselves and others. Here are some characteristics and behaviors that define good football spectators:
  1. Respectful Behavior: Good spectators treat fellow fans, players, coaches, and officials with respect. They avoid using offensive language, making derogatory comments, or engaging in disrespectful behavior.
  2. Supportive and Encouraging: They support their team and players enthusiastically without resorting to hostility or intimidation. Good spectators encourage their team and applaud good plays, regardless of the outcome.
  3. Fair Play: They understand and appreciate the principles of fair play and sportsmanship. Good spectators do not condone cheating, diving, or unsportsmanlike conduct by their own team or opponents.
  4. Abide by Rules and Regulations: They follow the rules and regulations of the stadium or venue, as well as the instructions of security personnel and officials.
  5. Responsible Consumption: Good spectators consume alcoholic beverages responsibly and avoid excessive drinking that can lead to disruptive or offensive behavior.
  6. Safe Environment: They contribute to creating a safe and secure environment for everyone by reporting any suspicious or dangerous activities to authorities.
  7. No Discrimination: Good spectators do not engage in discrimination based on race, nationality, religion, gender, or any other factors. They promote inclusivity and diversity in the football community.
  8. Cleanliness: They dispose of their trash properly and help keep the stadium or venue clean by not littering.
  9. No Violence: They do not engage in violence or aggressive behavior, and they discourage others from doing so.
  10. Knowledgeable Fans: Good spectators have a good understanding of the game and its rules, which enhances their enjoyment and allows them to engage in constructive discussions about the match.
  11. Consideration for Others: They are considerate of the people around them, avoiding behaviors that might obstruct the view or disrupt the experience of fellow spectators.
  12. Loyalty and Passion: Good spectators are passionate about their team but express that passion in a positive and controlled manner.
Ultimately, good football spectators contribute to a positive and enjoyable atmosphere at football matches, making the experience more enjoyable for everyone involved, including players, officials, and fellow fans. They play a crucial role in maintaining the spirit of sportsmanship and fair competition in the game.

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Enjoy The Match Explained

“Enjoy the match” is a common expression used to wish someone well and hope they have a good time while watching or participating in a sports match or game. It’s a friendly way to encourage someone to have fun and savour the experience of watching or playing a sport. People often say this before a game to convey their best wishes and enthusiasm for the event. Follow more news on Enjoy The Match with the BBC Sport news as well as The Independenet Sports news websites.