Whether your school's sports team is consistently lauded as one of the nation's best, or an underdog that's just come from behind to beat the best, a winning score after the final buzzer will resound across campus and all over town. Everyone is elated, brimming with adrenaline, and ready to go celebrate. But as joyousness turns to raucousness, that uncontrolled energy, often fueled with alcohol and drugs, can start to cause serious damage.

There's a fine line between a big crowd of sports fans and a riot. Once the winners cross that line, it's nearly impossible for them to turn back.

Why Fans Turn to Destruction Even After A Win

The post-win riot is a curious phenomenon. It's understandable that players and fans who are upset after a big loss might take to the streets in large numbers to let off some steam, leading to rioting and its attendant destructive acts. When you're angry and disappointed, it can feel really good—and more to the point, cathartic—to break things and hit things and to swear like proverbial sailors.

But why would winners want to riot?

There are a couple of theories. Experts postulate that most sports-related rioters are young and male, so there's extra testosterone flooding the stadium and streets in the wake of a win—what NPR writer Linda Holmes describes as “miscellaneous, unattached aggression in search of a cause.”

Of course, it's difficult to overemphasize the role that alcohol use can play in causing people to do stupid things, no matter what the circumstances or the unresolved emotions.

One other theory is a version of the self-fulfilling prophecy: when police in riot gear are on hand to quell any violence that arises, people are more likely to become violent and riot.

Destroying Not Just Cars and Property, But Futures

The outcome of post-game violence can be devastating. People have been killed; campuses and municipalities have sustained hundreds of thousands of dollars' worth of damages. On a more personal level, the rioters themselves can face serious punishment for their involvement.

The Student Code of Conduct at every school clearly lays out its property damage and vandalism policies—and the potential ramifications. Students suspected or known to have engaged in these acts will be contacted, informed of the allegations against them, and instructed to attend a hearing.

The hearing is usually their only chance to plead for mercy and save their good standing on campus, and along with it, their college career, professional career, livelihood, and reputation.

Avoid Further Damage—To Your Future

If found culpable for damage, sports rioters could face suspension or even dismissal from their school. However, a good defense could mean minimal consequences—and a second chance at college.

To explore your options, contact the Education Defense team at the Lento Law Firm. Call 888.535.3686 or click here to schedule a consultation.