Why we can say we

In the sports arena fans will often attach themselves to a team, so much so, that they include themselves in the success or plight of that team. When speaking of this team , the fan will often say 'we'. For some reason a fair number of athletes and sports personalities find this offensive. It as though the feel it is their right, their entitlement. Well, I am here to argue on behalf of Joe Fan everywhere... and I intend to use some logic to back up my argument.

First of all we know that fan is short for fanatic.. and when it comes to fanaticism, logic usually flies right out the window along with the paraphernalia of a rival team when in reach. However consider this when debating the 'we' argument... what is the true driving force behind sports? The answer is money. It is not athletes, or owners, or sportsmanship.. it is money. The all mighty dollar. All sports are where they are now because of revenue...

Which brings me to my second point, where does all this money come from? Now you could say something smart like.. the owner writes the checks, or big companies pay ad revenue to these leagues... in both cases you would be right, but why do they do this? Just because? No, it is to lure the fan. The owners put forth a product to lure the fan so we will spend money. Advertisers spend their money so when we watch we will spend our money.

So, in truth we are a silent.. or sometimes, very vocal partner in this operation. That is why we can say 'we' when referring to our favorite team(s). The fan ultimately pays the bills. We fund these endeavors and as such belong to that team(s) just as much as any owner, manager, coach or player. We give not only of our wallets, but also our hearts through our passionate screams and chants for defense, when appropriate... and when WE win, we the fan don't ask for a championship ring to put on our finger... just the right to be a part of the organization that we... yes we all put together.