Violence in sports Violence in sports refers to physical acts
committed in contact sports such as American football, ice
hockey, rugby football, lacrosse, soccer, boxing, mixed martial
arts, wrestling, and water polo beyond the normal levels of
contact expected while playing the sport. These acts of violence
can include intentional attempts to injure a player by another
player or coach, but can also include threats of physical harm
or actual physical harm sustained by players or coaches by those
engaging in spectating of sports. "Intermittent explosive
disorder" may be a cause of violence. Some athletes may be
genetically predisposed to violence or (particularly male
athletes) have unusually high testosterone levels. Animal
behavior ethology studies may also lend a clue, as athletes may
resort to violence to establish territory. Violence by athletes
Athletes sometimes resort to violence, in hopes of injuring and
intimidating opponents. Such incidents may be part of a strategy
developed by coaches or players.