observations #1

Devin Martin

I observed the Kentucky vs. Louisville hockey game. It was an interesting game, but being there to observe the die hard fans, I noticed many interesting things. My first impression of them took place in the parking lot of the Lexington Ice Center. I saw a 6 intoxicated individuals stumbling out of a  a taxi with beers in hand. They all were sporting their Kentucky attire and shouting in approval of the game that was about to take place. They then staggered their way over to the ticket booth to get their tickets for the game. It interested me how for some people, these events are utilized as more of a party than a sporting event, and I often try to figure out why exactly they are here rather than a party or something somewhere else. After buying my ticket I made my way over to a seat in the bleachers. I stood there and listened in for the chants and comments that the crowd was throwing at the audience. Most of the statements were very profane and even the crowd chants threw F bombs at the other team in an attempt to intimidate them. Many of the people in attendance showed little understanding of how the actual game was played they just were there under sheer patriotism and to see the fights. After the game was finished, most of these fans walked outside and either got in with their designated driver or got in a taxi. It was an interesting sight and a good experience.