Why should fans be loyal to sports teams, when the players aren’t loyal to the fans? Each year (read: end of contract), players have to decide if they want to go to another team to make more money or stay where they are. The only reason most players stay on a team for any length of time is because they are bound by contracts.*

I, however, am not. I’m not bound to the Phillies(/Eagles/Flyers/Sixers) just because I live near Philadelphia. I’m a fan. I demand action, and excitement. If my “team” isn’t giving me action or excitement, why can’t I choose another? Tell me honestly, WHY do I have to be a fan of only one team?

And the jocks cry, “duuuude, you bandwagon jumper! Where were you when we were on a 10 game losing streak?” You know where I was? Supporting a team which DESERVES my energy by giving me fantastic games to watch. But I know your anger stems from your jealousy of me, watching me jump up and down in elation as the team I’m rooting for scores again, and it’s OK. It’s a perfectly acceptable response, you just need to recognize that as a human, if I’m going to invest my time, money and emotions into a team and I don’t get a return, I need a new investment.

This ISN’T about following the “best” team in each sport each year. Even teams who win “The Big Game”** don’t keep the same players for the next year. This is about following teams which are interesting and exciting to watch. I was a HUGE Dolphin fan in the Dan Marino days, they were exciting to watch each year knowing their toughest game of the year was the AFC championship (God damn Bills…). Miami has SUCKED these past years, why should I stick around? Go fuck yourselves.

There are only three rules to being a Free-Agent Fan. You can’t switch week after week, you have to choose your team before the season starts (pre-season is there to feel your team out) and you can’t switch after the trade deadline for your sport passes.

I’m no different from someone who changes lottery numbers every play. Or someone who folds in poker when the flop gives them no help. Why is it OK to ditch the match when it relates to inanimate objects, such as dice, cards or lottery balls; but suddenly, the crowd wants to burn me at the stake if I switch to another team?

They are not out for my interests, I will not be out to support theirs.

* I KNOW this doesn’t apply to everyone, I am making a majority statement. For each A-Rod I can name, someone can find a Jeter.
** Apply appropriately to your sport of choice.
This rant stolen from the Opie and Anthony show.