One of the best rivalries in modern sports begins as the Braves travel to Philadelphia to start the season. The Phillies have eliminated Atlanta in the previous two postseasons, despite dominating the division and winning six straight division titles as well as a World Series.
Both times, Atlanta’s season has concluded in Philadelphia, a city that is fast becoming known for having what is arguably the greatest October atmosphere in sports. No one has ever questioned the fervor of Philadelphia’s supporters. They have a fierce passion for their teams in every sport.
However, Philadelphia fans appear to straddle the line between being a straight up asshole and having passion more than any other fan population. Brian Snitker talked about the Phillies fans on The Steakhouse with 92.9 The Game’s Steak Shapiro. The supporters claimed to have treated his wife and children so badly that they would never attend another game at Citizens Bank Park.
The fact that a sizable segment of the Philadelphia fan base wears this as a badge of honor is what’s really repulsive. They take great pride in it, thinking that this disgusting behavior makes them tough, even though that couldn’t be further from the reality.
This is made possible by the mob mindset. Surrounded by fellow city dwellers, they believe it’s OK to effectively jump opposing fan bases. That is one thing when it happens to many rival supporters who come to the city, but these are women, kids, and families.
To be honest, it’s among the most pitiful things happening in sports today. Some of these people are merely trying to support their families; it’s a game, and fully grown adults are berating them like violent circus clowns. There’s no way around it: anyone who condones this kind of behavior is a true loser.
Philadelphia, the trash city (and runner-up), wake up.
