The researchers also found that losing teams demonstrated more violent player behavior early in the game, suggesting that violence was not due to the frustration of losing, but rather due to an intentional strategy possibly based on the mistaken belief that violent behavior contributes to winning. Ice hockey has become the fastest growing sport in many parts of the world. Although European ice hockey has evolved into a highly refined game, based on skill and finesse, the North American version of the sport is still based heavily on violence. Catastrophic and disabling injuries are being reported with increasing frequency. These injuries are in many cases caused by violent player behavior which, the researchers pointed out, may be supported by coaches who cling to the belief that such behavior contributes to winning.
Professional athletes are powerful role models for American youth.
Many authorities have looked to sport programs as a way of reducing juvenile delinquency. Youth sports are deeply rooted in our social and cultural heritage. A recent study estimated that almost half of 34 million American adolescents participated in non-school sports. In terms of attendance at sports events, corporate sponsorship of athletics, licensed sports product sales, and media coverage on television and radio, the magnitude of sport in our society has never been so dominant and pervasive - and its impact is growing. One of the most disturbing trends in American sports is the increasing frequency and severity of violence.