Fair-weather or bandwagon fans are common in virtually every major sport. These are the fans that "loyally" follow their favorite sports figures or teams only when they are winning. Having lived in South Florida for a number of years, I can attest how this rings true in regards to the four major sports teams in the area: the Dolphins, Marlins, Heat, and Panthers. For example, watch a replay of any Heat game last year, and what stands out is the sea of empty yellow seats at the American Airlines Arena. But this year, with Lebron James, Dwayne Wade, and Chris Bosch in town, all season tickets have been sold out.
But it is refreshing to see NASCAR fans are different. Dale Earnhardt Jr. has not won a race in over two years, his last victory coming in May 2006. Since joining Hendrick Motorsports in 2008, he has made the Chase only once with his best points finish at 12th. Yet Junior is perennially regarded as the fans most popular driver.
Yes, Junior fans may be obnoxious or overly boisterous. Their loyalty, however, cannot be questioned.
Ben Montedonico of Stock Car Spin writes an excellent article on Junior's dedicated followers. You can read it at http://stockcarspin.com/2011/02/03/does-junior-nation-finally-deserve-a-win/.
