Written by In 2017 Sebastian Lletget, a mid-fielder for LA Galaxy suffered a season ending foot injury while playing for the USMNT. It was my first year at LA Galaxy. At the end of the last home game of the season, the players go around the stadium and take pictures and sign autographs with the players. The last home game of 2017 Sebastian Lletget went around the entire stadium and took pictures with every last person in the stands. The following season when he finally got back on the field, the stadium roared at volumes I had never heard before, for his return. At the beginning of the season, the team had a jersey launch for the new kits for season ticket members. Again, Lletget dressed in the new kit took pictures with every single person that was in line, even when we were told to cut the line, so he could leave. He told me “No it’s ok, I’ll stay.” To me this was extremely kind and well above and beyond what was required of him, but it also showed he knows the importance of fan engagement. Every game he gets the loudest cheers, because so many of the loyal fans have had these unique experiences with him that bring them back to the stadium season after season.
As a staff member our interactions are limited, and I wouldn’t claim he knows me on a personal level, but he is always extraordinarily kind to me and my colleagues, wishes us a good night as we depart the stadium, says hello in the tunnel, overall makes us feel like we are longtime pals.
Athletes have this opportunity to create a positive culture within their team’s fanbase, but not everyone acts upon it. As fans we appreciate athletes with immense talent, but one negative interaction with an athlete, can leave a long-lasting bitter taste. Athletes that create a positive culture with their fans, also typically have a positive rapport in the locker room as well. When there is a lot of negativity going around, it is important to recognize there is still a lot of good going on and these athletes should be recognized for the positive impact they bring to the sports world. If athletes like Sebastian are this kind to their fans, imagine the impact they have on their teammates and locker room.