Philadelphia Phillies’ Dalton Guthrie, center, is swarmed by Bryson Stott, right, and Alec Bohm after a baseball game against the Washington Nationals, Friday, Sept. September 2022, in Philadelphia.
The early success of the Eagles and Flyers seasons, combined with the Phillies and Unions’ playoff runs, have lifted the spirits of many throughout the Philadelphia area.
Studies have shown that the connections sports fans have with their teams can boost their self-esteem and provide a positive outlook on their surroundings. However, this can backfire.
During periods of bad seasons, a fan’s relationship with their favorite team can affect one’s ability to work and sleep, and in extreme cases, it can push someone into depression.
Eagles fan Steve Madley has been a season ticket holder for 15 years. Ahead of Sunday’s Eagles game against the Dallas Cowboys, he said he’s seen a lot of ups and downs over the years, but part of the fun of being an Eagles fan is rolling with the punches.
“I think you can tell Monday morning if the Eagles win or not, if you walk into Wawa and everybody’s a little nicer, you can tell,” Madley said. “Everyone is in a good mood because they won. If they lost, people aren’t as nice, right? It’s just a matter of … we live and die with our sports teams. Whether that’s a good thing or a bad thing, I don’t know, but it’s important to us. We care.”
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (1) celebrates with teammates after scoring on a 26-yard touchdown run during the first half of an NFL football game against the Minnesota Vikings, Monday, Sept. 19, 2022, in Philadelphia.
Sports can also provide an escape for some — as was the case for another Eagles tailback, Nathan Mann.
Before Sunday’s game, he told his friend he was in a better mood and noted how the city seemed “better” after the Phillies’ win over the Braves in the NLDS on Saturday.
“I would say in general when things are going well in the city, like with sports, it makes for a happier atmosphere,” Mann said. “We have a lot of gun violence and other issues in the city, so at least with sports it brings a brighter side to Philadelphia.”
This week, the Phillies play the San Diego Padres in their first NLCS playoff appearance since 2010. The Philadelphia Union also host FC Cincinnati at Subaru Park on Thursday at 8 p.m. in an MLS Cup playoff game.
Union fans cheer as the Union player enters the field in a game against Toronto.
On October 18, the 76ers tip their season against the defending Eastern Conference Champions, the Boston Celtics. The match starts at 19:30. and is shown on TNT.
