10 Surprising US Sport Traditions For The Brits

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10 Surprising US Sports Traditions For The Brits

Sports traditions in America can sometimes seem a little strange to folks from across the pond. The United States has its own unique set of rituals and customs, particularly when it comes to sports.

From enthusiastic cheerleading to the intense fanfare of the Super Bowl, these traditions form a key part of the American identity and community spirit. However, for Brits, these customs might be puzzling or unfamiliar. Let’s see some of these American sports traditions to see what makes them so special and perhaps a bit confusing to British observers.

1. Tailgating

Tailgating is essentially a pre-game party where fans gather in the parking lots of sports stadiums to enjoy food and drinks before a game starts. Picture this: groups of people grilling burgers, tossing footballs, and having a good time with friends and family.

This party can start hours before the actual game begins. For many Americans, tailgating is as important as the game itself, creating a community atmosphere. Yet, for Brits used to more subdued pre-match routines, this extensive and elaborate outdoor celebration might seem over the top.

2. Cheerleading

Cheerleading, with its roots deeply embedded in American culture, is far more than just waving pom-poms around. It involves gymnastics, dance, and stunts, making it a physically demanding and highly competitive sport.

While it originated as a sideline activity to encourage team spirit during sports events, it has evolved into a competitive sport itself. In Britain, where cheerleading is not as prevalent, the spectacle and athleticism of American cheerleading can often be misunderstood as mere entertainment rather than a serious sport.

3. The Super Bowl

The Super Bowl isn’t just a football game; it’s a national event that combines sports, music, and television in a unique celebration. Featuring a high-profile halftime show with major musical acts and commercials that are as eagerly anticipated as the game itself, the Super Bowl goes beyond sports to become a cultural phenomenon.

For Brits, who have their own significant sporting events, the all-encompassing nature of the Super Bowl, with its blend of entertainment and sport, might seem overwhelming.

4. The seventh-inning stretch

Baseball is quintessentially American, and the seventh-inning stretch is a longstanding tradition within the game. Around the seventh inning, fans stand up to stretch their legs, and often sing “Take Me Out to the Ball Game.”

This break in the action is a time for spectators to relax and regroup before the final innings. For Brits accustomed to sports like football (soccer), which has a single halftime break, this mid-game pause followed by a communal sing-along might come off as peculiar.

5. College sports culture

In the United States, college sports are a big deal. Universities can have massive stadiums and arenas that rival professional leagues in size and fervor.

College football and basketball games, in particular, can draw television audiences that number in the millions, which can be surprising for Brits, where university sports typically enjoy a much lower profile. The deep-rooted loyalty and rivalry among college teams contribute significantly to local and national identity in the U.S.

6. The wave

The wave is a crowd participation activity common in American sports arenas where fans stand and raise their arms, creating a wave-like effect across the stadium. It’s a fun, if somewhat goofy, way to get the crowd involved.

For those unfamiliar with it, like many Brits, the sight of thousands of spectators standing and sitting in a coordinated manner purely for the joy of it might seem a bit bizarre.

7. Fantasy leagues

Fantasy sports leagues are a favorite pastime for many Americans. Participants create their teams virtually and compete based on the real-life performances of athletes.

This activity involves strategic planning and offers fans a more immersive experience in following their favorite sports. In Britain, where betting and pools are more common ways to engage with sports statistically, the complex and communal nature of American fantasy leagues might be confusing.

8. High school homecoming

Homecoming is a festive time at American high schools, featuring dances, parades, and football games. It’s a celebration that welcomes alumni back and fosters community spirit among students and graduates alike. The tradition can include crowning a Homecoming King and Queen. This elaborate celebration of school spirit is generally not observed in British schools, making it an unusual concept for Brits.

9. Mascots

Mascots are an integral part of American sports, embodying the spirit and identity of their teams. These characters, often dressed in elaborate costumes, provide entertainment during games, engage with fans, and help build a fun atmosphere.

While mascots are used in some British sports, the extensive use and variety of mascots in almost every American sport, from amateur leagues to professional ones, can be perplexing to Brits.

10. National anthem before games

Playing the national anthem before sporting events is a standard practice in the United States, symbolizing patriotism and unity. This moment is seen as a respectful tribute to the nation and its values.

In Britain, national anthems are typically reserved for international matches, so the regular playing of the U.S. anthem before domestic sports events, regardless of the level of competition, might appear overly formal or nationalistic to British viewers.