#17 – The only unscripted drama

It’s no secret I’m a sports-lover. I think it brings out the best in people.

Two weeks ago, a soccer game between Finland and Denmark with the appeal of an episode from season 31 of The Simpsons, was etched into everyone’s memories.

Christian Eriksen, a Danish superstar at the top of his game, collapsed on the field mid-match. The world held its breath and prayed – thankfully he’s stabilised now. The Finland fans – who a few minutes before were cheering for their side to win at all costs – began chanting solemnly and in solidarity with the Danish fans for Eriksen’s recovery.

Eriksen has played for Tottenham Hotspur and Inter Milan – I support both their derby opponents Chelsea and AC Milan. Does that matter right now?

Of course not.

We can point to Neale Daniher and his charity work for transcending footy’s fanbase tribalism. Fans of all teams wear the MND beanies and donate to a worthy cause.

Then of course there was a tragic day in November 2014 where Phil Hughes was struck as cricketers of all states and countries lamented.

I hear a lot of rhetoric of sport being our battlefield where countries and clubs pit their athletes against each other, but we’ve repeatedly seen that’s not the case.

We love the spectacle and the cheers and the storylines. We love meeting and embracing other fans in our moments of elation and despair. We obviously love winning more than losing!

But I think most of all, I love the ability of sport to bring people together. The stadium is a theatre, a forum and a coliseum. The show is full of intrigue, redemption, disappointment, ecstasy, showmanship and sandpaper (on at least one occasion).

Sport is the greatest unscripted drama.

Next week: The LinkedIn Projection