Streamer Throwing at BMO Field In Toronto

Toronto FC has recently been under the spotlight for ill fan behavior, specifically for throwing streamers on opponent corner kicks. Many pundits claim that the act is unsporting and makes the MLS look bush league.

First of all, let me make my bias clear. I am a Toronto FC season ticket holder in the south end corner of the Supporter’s Section and I not only throw streamers, but I enjoy throwing them!

Now, let me defend my stance.

First of all, the streamers are made out of paper and will not hurt anyone. Admittedly, I would not allow the throwing of anything else.

Secondly, opposing players say that they like the atmosphere at BMO Field, including the throwing of streamers! Claudio Reyna was the latest opposing player to throw his support behind the streamers. 

In fact, I have never heard an opposing player say anything negative about the throwing of streamers.

Is the throwing of streamers "bush league"?

I guess you could argue that it is, but then so is having artificial turf and poor American commentary where the announcers would rather get over how friendly they are with David Beckham than talk about play in the midfield.  At least streamer throwing creates a good atmosphere!

Is the throwing of streamers unsporting?

I believe they are somewhat intimidating, but then again no team should ever go into an opposing club’s home stadium and expect to have the welcome mat rolled out for them.

Furthermore, the only people complaining seem to be the fans of other clubs, leagues, or of other sports entirely. The athletes themselves have nothing but praise for the atmosphere created by the Toronto supporter's streamer throwing!

Let’s face it, throwing streamers is fun and they are not banned by the authorities so therefore fans are not breaking any rules by throwing them. It is our way of expressing our passion in Toronto.

If the throwing of streamers were to lead to other problems, such as the throwing of more dangerous objects, then I would have no qualms about banning them from BMO Field. Until then, everyone should just lighten up and look at the bigger picture, because streamer throwing is all in good MLS fun.