Because loving them means sometimes loving their team too
When your significant other is deep into their favorite sport—whether it’s football, basketball, hockey, or all of the above—your home life can start to revolve around scores, schedules, and game-day superstitions. And while you may not care who wins the AFC Championship or how many fantasy points someone scored, you do care about your partner.
The good news? You can show support without becoming a superfan. Here’s how to show up, stay sane, and maybe even enjoy the ride.
1. Learn Just Enough to Follow Along
You don’t need to memorize stats or know the playoff bracket. But knowing the basics—what team they root for, when the big games are, and what a touchdown or penalty means—goes a long way.
It shows you’re trying, and that matters more than knowing who’s on the injured list.
2. Make Game Time Feel Like “Their Time”
If watching the game is their version of therapy, let them have it. Plan solo time or friend hangouts when you know they’re going to be glued to the screen. Or better yet, join them for a bit—then peace out when it’s clear they’re fully emotionally invested.
Support sometimes looks like space.
3. Ask Questions (Even the Funny Ones)
Curious about what the flags mean? Confused why they’re yelling at the coach through the screen? Ask. Playfully. Not only does it lighten the mood, it turns game time into shared time—even if you’re mostly there for the snacks.
Bonus: your curiosity might spark some fun bonding moments.
4. Set Boundaries Around the Obsession
If sports are dominating every night or putting stress on your relationship, it’s okay to speak up. Say something like, “I love that you’re passionate, but I miss having time together where the TV’s not yelling at us.” It’s about balance—not banning the thing they love.
Support doesn’t mean sacrificing your needs.
5. Lean Into the Community Vibe
Go to a watch party. Wear the jersey. Bake game-day snacks. You don’t have to love the game to love the energy that comes with it. Sports bring people together, and being part of that—even occasionally—can bring you closer to your partner.
Plus, nachos.
6. Surprise Them with Thoughtful Touches
Record a game they missed. Pick up a team-themed mug or blanket. Plan a themed dinner before a rivalry match. These small actions say: “I see you. I get what this means to you.” And that kind of thoughtfulness hits harder than any halftime commercial.
7. Let Them Know You Still Come First (Even If Their Team Is in the Playoffs)
Sometimes, when it’s game after game, you might feel like you’re taking a back seat. A gentle reminder—through words or actions—that your connection matters just as much can help keep things balanced.
Don’t compete with the sport. Be the reason they look up from the screen.
Support Isn’t About Loving the Game—It’s About Loving the Person
You don’t have to be a diehard fan to be a supportive partner. Whether you’re cheering with them, rolling your eyes from the kitchen, or giving them space to decompress after a loss, your effort matters. And when they know they can enjoy their passion without feeling guilty or misunderstood, you both win.