Attending a Live Game

Its the most wonderful time of year: the beginning of baseball season!
Not only that, hockey & basketball are still going on so there are plenty of opportunities for some live sporting action. Whether its your first live game or fiftieth, here are some helpful hints I've learned over the years:
 
1. For God's sake do NOT where pink team memorbilia. I once saw a little girl in a pink Bruins (hockey) jersey and I nearly clotheslined her as she went past. While it may look all cute and feminine, in reality you're putting a target on your back that says "rookie."

2. PACE YOURSELF. The most important rule of tailgating or baseball games is "it's a marathon, not a sprint." This is mostly important for football where you'll be tailgating for a few hours then attending a three hourish game but it also applies to baseball and hockey (especially afternoon games if you're trying to make it out on the town later.) If you're at a game with any male, remember they tend to be bigger and whether we like to admit it they can out drink us based sheerly on their larger size. The last thing you want is to be that girl vomiting on the side of Lansdowne Street at the end of a Sox game.

3. Beware the away game live game if its a big time rivalry. As a bright-eyed 13-year old attending my first Sox-Yankee game at old Yankee Stadium I believed I was exempt from critique due to my age so I happily bounced into the stadium decked out in a Red Sox jersey. I quickly learned drunk sporting fans do. not. care. about your age...they will harrass you. I'm not saying don't rep your team, just be aware of the consequences and learn how to spot the glazed eyed look of the overtly drunk that will push it too far and ruin the experience.

4. Chat with your neighbors. Even opposing team supporters. It results in delightful banter and/or the always enjoyable debates about who's team is better. Just try not to let it devolve into screaming matches which can result in flying pieces of pizza and/or flying fists. No one wants to get a taser gun to the dome to ruin a day out at the ballpark.

5. Learn the art of pre-game. And quickly. Venues are expensive as hell and the last thing you want is to be spending $9.00 for every Bud Light you drink. Sneaking booze in can be tricky but worth it. If you're a girl with a large purse just bury it at the bottom in a water bottle and they usually just let you pass by without too much in depth digging. Just be aware of the consequences should you be caught and be prepared to cry on command.

6. While the more expensive seats offer a better view at any stadium, odds are you'll have an overall better time in the bleacher/nose-bleed section. The fans tend to be more blue-collar and "true fans" versus the guys who strolled out of work, still dressed in suits that show up mid-way through the first period, inning, quarter, etc. It also gives you more cash to spend on beer/munchies.

Welp, that's all I've got for now. So get out there & enjoy!