Let sport always bring out the good in us

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In one of the worst sports tragedies going by statistics, at least, the number is sure to go up even as you read this, 125 people are dead after a riot-like situation post a domestic league football match in Indonesia.

Just to encapsulate, fans ran on to the field post the match. Some hurled projectiles at the losing team players and officials. As chaos ensued, police fired tear gas. There was mass panic and people ran towards the exit. In the process, many were trampled and suffocated to death. There are those who have grievous injuries.

The incident holds lessons for all of us. In the end, sport is a game and fans have to accept the win or loss. Celebrating is fine post win, but never let things get out of hand or mark wins in such a way that they pose a danger to you or those near you. In the same way, a loss may be very sharp or bitter but to express disappointment and even disgust with team or players with abuse can escalate very quickly as this showed.

One must remember that stadiums, usually packed to the hilt at big games, with adrenaline running high, emotions and passion surging are absolute cauldrons, even if there is heavy security. Add social media to the mix, where build-up to games and pre-game comments add to the atmosphere. There are thousands of cameras, thanks to mobile phones and you have a very high degree of visibility.

It is imperative that there is restraint post results. Discipline even in merriment and the bottom line is enjoying the game and accepting the result. Remember that huge crowds mean that if there is an out-of-control situation, this can result in deadly injuries. Value life and put responsibility, maturity, empathy as cornerstones in the spectator stands.