Written by Lauren Roth
- Let them do the talking.
This is the most basic strategy and easiest way to go. Just about everyone has something they are passionate about, so find out their favorite sport and just ask, “What do you like about it?” or “Who’s your favorite player? Why?” People love to talk about themselves, and when they aren’t talking about themselves, they want to talk about what they love.
2. Learn a top player’s name.
Chances are you already know some star athletes without even knowing it, they are found all over the news and social media. Tom Brady is the newest quarterback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and just won his 7th Superbowl. Lebron James- one of the biggest names in basketball- is a forward for the reigning NBA champs, Los Angeles Lakers. Connor McDavid is one of the NHL’s top stars and laces up for the Edmonton Oilers. On the baseball diamond, Mike Trout is one of the biggest names in the game. Want to really wow your date? Feel free to mention the $426.5 million contract that Trout signed in March of 2019. Simply knowing one or two big names will make you seem like you know something about the sport, and that is what we are going from here. Another tip: ask them for their opinion about a particular player because then they can do all the talking.
3. Ask about the rules.
Play into the aspect of not knowing, and don’t be embarrassed about it! Truth be told, they would probably love to teach you about their favorite game. This is just going back to strategy number one by asking a question and letting them do the talking.
4. Keep up with the important games.
If your sweetheart is a football fan, it won’t take you long to figure out that the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are Super Bowl champions as of this past weekend. If they are into another sport, try to keep up with games like the Stanley Cup Finals, the World Series, and the NBA Championships.
5. When you’re watching together, mirror their reactions.
If you score a date to watch their favorite team play, don’t worry! If you pay attention to how they react, they will show you just what you need to do to act engaged. When they get excited, cheer with them. If they get mad, get mad with them. Soon enough, you’ll be able to pick up when good and bad things are happening for their team. When in doubt, always blame the refs.
6. Less is more.
Once you figure out a few names or facts about their favorite sport, insert them in your conversations and carry on. Once again, let them talk! Make a few vague, but appropriate comments on what they are talking about and allow them to keep sharing their passion with you.
7. If all else fails, who cares.
Let’s be real, if you’re on a date with someone and you mess up while trying to talk sports, who cares?! They should appreciate the effort you’re putting into this, and if they don’t, walk away! Find someone with more depth.
