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When you think of violence in sports, most friends of mine are quick to point out that soccer is the most violent. There is no denying that soccer fans can be unruly at times, but I think most of the bad perception is the media’s fault.

Soccer highlights don’t make it in the evening news unless it includes violence or a spectacular goal. The fact is, there are hundreds of soccer games played daily all over the world.

I recall the famous “kung fu” kick incident years ago between a Manchester United player and a fan. That was a classic example of player vs. fan violence. Is player versus fan violence on an increase? Several incidents between players and fans have been in the limelight the last two years.

Fans have become emboldened. They initiate contact with players, spill beer or throw paper cups at them. At least, spitting is not quite there yet!

Recently, Gary Sheffield of the Yankees had a brush with a Boston Red Sox fan. Last year, Texas Ranger reliever Frank Francisco, a relief pitcher threw a folding chair to a group of fans after an argument. He was later charged with battery.

The worst player vs. fan violence so far in America was in a basketball game between in Indiana Pacers and Detroit Pistons just a few months ago, the now infamous Ron Artest incident.

In soccer, FIFA, the governing body for soccer gives out harsh penalties for unruly fans. Stiff fines are handed to clubs that can’t control their fans. Subsequent games are usually played in closed circuit with no fans allowed in the stadium. I don’t think American sports will enforce these strict fines. There’s simply too much money involved.

Some clubs in Europe also ban fans from travelling to away games. So, maybe banning a sports fan in the US in attending a game and even an entire season maybe in order. In any case, stiff penalties needs to be enforced on both sides of the ball before it gets out of hand.