Less than 100 days until the 2014 football season begins. Time again to update the rules of etiquette at University of Louisville football games.

Especially important as UofL prepares to join the Atlantic Coast Conference.

Everyone is familiar with fans who wind up at Papa John’s Cardinal Stadium oblivious to what’s happening on the field. Some of the rules are for them, other for people who grate on the nerves of fellow fans.

Most of these would apply to other sports, but they are often violated with impunity at PJCS so we’ll keep hammering at them until hell freezes over:

  • Leave earlier to the get to the stadium. Every game will be a sold this season. Pack up the tailgate, be in your seat at kickoff.
  • Don’t cross in front of other fans to get to your seat in the middle of a play.  You are blocking the view of fans who actually care about the game.  Wait till the play is over. Wait till the play is over.
  • Know when to stand or not to stand. Nothing worse than someone standing up when nothing is happening, sometime affecting several rows of fans. (Hint: If you’re the only one standing in the section, there’s a problem).
  • Don’t be a negative neanderthal. There’s always some guy who thinks every play is terrible, every tackle is sloppy, any gain by the opposing team is poor defensive play, and thinks he’s the expert on play calling.
  • Limit social, non-football dialogue if possible. Your long time friends may actually be more interested in football.
  • Limit alcohol intake. Don’t spill beer on  fellow fans. Or your guts for that matter.
  • Watch your language. Difficult at times.  But coaches, players and officials can’t hear you. Only your seat neighbors who struggle to ignore you.
  • Don’t make a big show of leaving before the game is over.  Players notice. Coaches, too, especially those previously suspected of wandering eyes.
  • Don’t wear apparel from opposing programs (there’s always one or two UK fans) unless your team is UofL’s opponent that day.
  • Don’t sell or give your Louisville vs. UK tickets to Kentucky fans. Ever.
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By Charlie Springer

Charlie Springer is a former Louisville editor and sportswriter, a public affairs consultant, a UofL grad and longtime fan.

2 thoughts on “Etiquette update for Louisville football fans”
  1. How much do the “other fans” charge? And, why would does their “charge” coordinate with affection for your posterior?

    I think that you are trying to say that you care as little about your fellow fans and you care about writing in a coherent manner. But, then, I don’t speak narcissist, so I may not understand you fully. A rational caring person would realize that every attendee has paid a price to be there and each deserves a respectful atmosphere.

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