3. Violence and aggression in sport

Learning goals We are learning to identify the many forms of violence and aggression in sport. We are learning the risks associated with concussions in sport.

Violence and aggression in sport Violence is the intentional use of physical force to hurt or injure a person or damage property. Aggression is attacking or threatening a person without being provoked.

Violence and aggression within competition Some degree of “violent conduct” is tolerated or even encouraged in contact sports such as football and hockey. Coaches often urge athletes to “hit hard but hit legal.” Even in non-contact sports such as baseball, some forms of violence are condoned as long as it stays within the rules. Sometimes individual acts of violence get out of hand and fights result in which entire teams get involved and games have to be cancelled.

Major problems associated with violence in sport The long-term consequences of concussions caused by sport- related violence can be dire, e.g., serious brain injury. Many fans are taking a stand and denouncing violence at sporting events.

Violence and aggression off the field We often hear news stories of domestic violence involving athletes, and reports of violent incidents in nightclubs and other social settings. Many people have theorized that athletes are often trained to react to situations of conflict by using violence, which is part of many sports. When put in a tense situation outside a sporting context, some athletes are unable to “turn off” that training.

Violence and aggression among fans Violence and aggression among fans is a serious issue around the world, most notably in soccer. Some fans in countries passionate about a sport attend matches intending to fight with fans of an opposing team. Many high-profile examples of supporters’ fights have ended in serious injury and even death.

Violence and aggression against officials and coaches Officials and coaches are increasingly the victims of violence and aggression from fans and athletes alike. Some fans yell, kick, and threaten violence against an official who has made a call with which some fans and athletes disagree. In minor and junior league hockey games, some parents show aggression toward their children’s opponents and have attacked coaches and officials. Assaulting or uttering threats against a sports official can lead to criminal charges.

The Potentially Life-Altering Effects of Hockey Violence

Spinal cord injuries The spinal cord sends messages (through 31 pairs of spinal nerves flowing from it) to and from the brain and to and from all parts of your body. When the spinal cord receives a severe impact, damage to the spine can profoundly affect its ability to send impulses to body parts.

Aftermath of spinal cord injuries Spinal cord injuries can result from a severe impact sustained during a sporting event and they can cause great physical and psychological damage. The person suffering a spinal cord injury often needs long-term rehabilitation. Rehabilitation usually involves extensive physiotherapy, perhaps surgery, and counselling to help the person and their family adjust to the new reality.

Paraplegia and Quadriplegia When a serious injury to the spinal cord occurs, the nerves above the injury keep working, while those below the injury may or may not still function. If the injury prevents the use of the legs but not the arms, the injury is known as paraplegia. If the injury prevents movement of both the arms and legs, the injury is known as quadriplegia.

Head injuries and concussions A concussion is a brain injury that results from a hit or blow to the head, or a rapid back and forth movement of the head and neck. Head injuries are common in contact sports and non-contact sports alike. Any head injury is serious and possibly life- threatening. Concussions resulting from head injuries or a shaking of the brain can be mild or severe but always require immediate medical attention.

Symptoms and risks A second direct or indirect impact to the brain can lead to a rapid brain swelling that can cause coma and death. The main symptoms of concussions are headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and memory problems (post- concussion symptoms). Athletes who have suffered a concussion must resist the pressure to return to the game and focus on recovery because the brain needs time to heal.

summary Violence and aggression in sport occur within the competition, off the field, among fans, and against officials and coaches. Spinal cord injuries sustained during an accident, fall, or sports-related incident can require a long period of rehabilitation and counselling. It is important to recognize the symptoms and signs of concussions. Athletes are often under great pressure—financial and otherwise—to continue to play after sustaining successive concussions but rest and recovery are crucial in order for the brain to heal.

Learning goals We are learning to identify the many forms of violence and aggression in sport. We are learning the risks associated with concussions in sport.