Spectators at Paralympics instructed on appropriate crowd behavior for visually-impaired athletes

Unique Atmosphere in Silent Sports at Paris Paralympic Games

A different kind of energy fills the Eiffel Tower Stadium during blind football and goalball matches at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games. Fans are reminded to be quiet, creating an unusual silence in a sports venue. This contrast to the typical rowdiness of soccer matches adds a unique depth to the experience for both spectators and athletes.

Blind football and goalball cater to athletes with visual impairments, relying on sound cues for gameplay. The inclusion of a rattle or bell in the ball helps players locate it on the field. Communication between players is essential, with shouts and verbal cues guiding movements. This reliance on sound creates a captivating atmosphere where every noise carries weight.

Athletes like Brazil’s Jeferson “Jefinho” Goncalves and fans such as French supporter Jade Sidot note the distinct requirements of attention and focus these sports demand. The crowd plays a crucial role, adhering to specific rules about when they can vocalize their support. Instructions like “GET LOUD!!!!” are displayed to encourage cheering at appropriate times.

Despite initial confusion among spectators unfamiliar with the noise regulations, moments of permitted cheering elicit thunderous applause and excitement. Dutch fans attending the silent sports for the first time express a deep connection to the players, feeling more engaged in the game’s outcomes due to the silence surrounding them.

While challenges in maintaining silence persist, athletes like Jefinho remain hopeful that as blind football gains popularity, both fans and players will adapt to the unique atmosphere of these silent sports. The mutual respect shown by the crowd through their silence is recognized by fans and players alike, highlighting a different form of appreciation for the sports and the athletes participating in them.

Source: Students in the undergraduate certificate program in the Carmical Sports Media Institute at the University of Georgia