THE FAN MOVEMENT AS A SPORTS JOURNALISM NEWSMAKER

The article explores the phenomenon of figure skating, which has given rise to an extensive fan movement in the last quarter of a century, sometimes taking the ugly forms of hate wars and unrestrained worship of sports stars. Along with supporting athletes, increasing attendance at sports events and the emotional level of competitions, the fan movement often leads to a destabilization of the competition atmosphere, creating discomfort for no-known or novice athletes, and also exerts pressure on public opinion, contributing to a decrease in the standards of sports journalism. The fan movement acts as a newsmaker, organizing solemn meetings of athletes, decorating the premises where competitions are held with banners, arranging mini-demonstrations at autograph sessions; the negative consequences of excessive fan zeal include noise, whistling, loud protests after the grades are announced, shouting during the performance, capable of disorienting the athlete, but giving informational reasons for sports journalists. Social networks and telegram channels of fan associations have a more destabilizing effect on athletes, they also motivate journalists to hype, lower ethical standards and the culture of speech.