Fan Violence a Concern After Giants Fan Beaten on Opening Day

Like many San Francisco Giants fans, Bryan Stow was eagerly looking forward to March 31^st. It was opening day, and the Giants were facing in state rivals Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium. This day was extra special for Stow , paramedic and father of 2, because he would be there, cheering on his team. The Giants won the game, 2-1, but what should have been a joyous occasion for Bryan quickly turned into a nightmare from which he has not yet woken.

Only hours after the game, Stow lay in critical condition at L.A. County-USC Medical Center, the victim of a cowardly and savage beating at the hands of two Dodgers fans. While no arrests have been made, police say two young men in Dodger's clothing were taunting Stow and a group of other fans, before ultimately punching him to the ground where the beating continued. The entire left side of his skull had to be temporarily removed to relieve pressure on his brain. "There is evidence of brain injury and dysfunction," said neurosurgeon Dr. Gabriel Zada. A vigil was held for Bryan outside of his hospital room.

What a sad day it is when you can't cheer on your favorite team away from home without having to look over your shoulder. Fan rivalry is one of the things that defines sports culture. Sports fans don't just root for their teams, they make them a part of their identity; they bleed their colors and wear their logos like badges of honor. But at the end of the day, any true fan knows that it's just a game, no matter how disappointing it can be when your team is on the losing side of a walk off home run or game winning shot. That's sports; you can't win em all, but you hold your head high, tip your cap, and play another day.

Unfortunately, violence and rioting are not uncommon sights in stadiums and arenas across the country. In 2003, Oakland Raider fans rioted in the streets after Oakland lost the Super Bowl to Tampa Bay . The following year, a similar incident occurred outside of Fenway Park after Boston won the American League Championship against longstanding rival New York Yankees (Interestingly, a 2005 study in Wales concluded that fans are more likely to display violent tendencies after their team wins). Sadly, a college student was inedvertantly killed by police after being struck in the eye by a pepper gun projectile. The vast majority of sports fans are in it for the fun and thrill of the game, but as is typical in many social situations, a few bad apples can spoil the bunch.

What can be done to avoid events like March 31^st at sporting venues? The Los Angeles Police Department has already vowed a larger security presence at future Dodger Stadium games, but fans of all teams should take it upon themselves to remain vigilant. Tense competition, packed crowds, and a steady flow of alcohol are all fuel for the fire. It is our duty as spectators to honor the games we are so passionate about with the dignity and class of true sports fans. I'll even get the ball rolling: Boston Red Sox fans...deep breath...good luck this season.

My thoughts and prayers go out to Bryan Stow and his family. Bryan , get well soon; t he season is young, and your team needs you. Donations to a support fund for Bryan Stow can be made here.

Sources: Violence in Sports. en.wikipedia.org.
Miranda Hitti, Sports Fan Violence Follows Victory. men.webmd.com.
Doctors: Fan Still In Critical Condition. espn.com.