Small footy grounds big on atmosphere

Apr 3 2008 By Graeme Whitfield

Small football grounds may not pack in the crowds but they are big on atmosphere, psychologists have found.

Scientists surveyed 443 supporters of 26 football clubs and asked them to rate the atmosphere and size of their home stadium.

Those who felt their venue was too small also gave it a high match-day atmosphere score.

Their atmosphere ratings were higher than those of fans who regarded their stadium as ``just right" in terms of size.

Supporters of teams who had recently moved to a new home noticed differences in atmosphere, some saying it had improved and others convinced it had worsened.

Those who had supported their club for longest were most emotional about moving to a new ground.

Dr Stephanie Charleston, from the University of Sunderland, who led the study, said: ``Larger stadiums don’t automatically result in a better atmosphere. Club directors might want to bear this in mind when considering a move to a new ground, especially as the process of moving can be an upsetting experience for long-standing fans, who provide key financial support to the club.

``When relocating a team, fan involvement is crucial. Understanding of what specific sets of supporters look for in terms of atmosphere should be incorporated into the planning process."

Dr Charleston was speaking at the British Psychological Society’s annual meeting in Dublin.