The dictionary tells us that to entertain is to “occupy agreeably”, and that something entertaining is “amusing”, “diverting”. So a logical combination of the foregoing could make entertainment an “amusing diversion that occupies agreeably”. Musical and dramatic performances (film and stage) fit the definition. However there are sad songs and serious plays that patrons do listen to and watch so except for ‘amusing’ the above definition still stands in those circumstances, and one still is ‘entertained’, so ‘diversion’ and ‘occupy’ stand out in the definition. No matter what, audiences go out to support their favourite performers.

Could not all the above be applied to sports in general, and football in particular? Spectators go to see their favourite team (and players) to enjoy their performance, which is the case when the team wins, and end up being sad if they lose. In fact one of the major differences between a football game and a stage performance is the uncertainty of the outcome. One usually knows what is going to happen in a play or a movie and what songs are likely to be performed at a concert. With a football game, though victory is hoped for, such is not always the case. Notwithstanding these facts entertainment, whether on stage, screen or on the football field, live or recorded, still manages to bring out the full range of emotions in spectators. One sad extension of this situation, especially in recent times, is the “unfriendly rivalry” between fans of different teams/artistes even after the game/show is over. This unfortunate offshoot of entertainment leads to the question of responsibility on the part of the players/performers. The similarities with footballers and singers, actors etc. are obvious. Hours of training/practice, practice games/rehearsals - are requirements before taking the field/stage. However RESPONSIBILITY – that is worth a closer look.

In creating an “agreeable diversion” for fans it is important that after the diversion people return to their regular routines uplifted and ready to be a productive part of the wider society. Just as a person can be inspired by a sad song or movie, so too football fans, on seeing a keenly contested match lost by their team, can take heart even in defeat. The onus is on the players to give of their very best at all times without undue show of dissent or disgust when decisions go against them. Just as stage performers have to overcome technical difficulties during a show (Celine Dion at the last Grammy awards is a good example), players must see bad calls as technical difficulties and continue to work. Of course just as the technicians work to make shows flow smoothly without these ‘difficulties’ match officials must do the same.

The media in Jamaica is not yet ‘hip to the hype’ that surround sports personalities, especially those who represent their country. “In foreign” stars are stars – the arena doesn’t matter. Shaquille O’Neal, Serena and Venus Williams, David Beckham et al get the same coverage as P. Diddy, Beyonce and Sting. Entertainment is entertainment and entertainers are entertainers. Maybe the level of professionalism attained in different domains affect the level of coverage, but the impact on audiences in the respective cultures is not to be overlooked. Does David Beckham and Michael Owen have greater impact on the English fan than Onandi Lowe and Ricardo Fuller on the Jamaican supporter? We must Bill our stars to Build our stars, this will improve attendance and income.

For thirty years the Harbour View Football Club has provided entertaining football, always striving to make the ‘diversion agreeable’. As we move closer and closer to full professionalism the entertainment will only improve.

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