Boston To College Kids, Sox Fans For World Series: 'Behave'

FENWAY, MA — Boston sports fans are known to get, ahem, overjoyed when their sports teams win, taking it out into the streets to celebrate. In years past fans have also overturned cars, set fire and gotten arrested for all of that in Kenmore Square. This year, ahead of the World Series, Boston Police and the mayor are asking fans, especially college kids, to tone it down.

"The Red Sox catchphrase this season is 'Do Damage;' that’s for the players in the field, not the fans in the street. I just want to be very clear on that,” Mayor Marty Walsh said during a press conference ahead of Game 1.

Boston Police Commissioner William Gross told college students in a message to remember that all eyes are on Boston. He advised them, in particular, to take advantage of planned on-campus viewing parties, to drink responsibly, stay off the roads and be safe.

"Showcase Boston to the nation with a level of class, pride and positive spirit that has been the hallmark of fans from our region," Gross said in his message. "In short, behave like champions."

Walsh, too, mentioned college students in particular who haven't experienced a Boston playoff run.

“Just because there’s a celebration, it doesn’t mean that anything goes,” said Walsh. "Let's not put a cloud over a great memory here in our city."

Walsh stressed police would not tolerate public drinking, disorderly conduct, climbing on cars or other infrastructure.

In 2004, a 21-year-old college student died and 16 were injured outside Fenway Park following the Red Sox’s series-clinching win over the Yankees. Police arrested several as small fires broke out and tried to calm the crowd.

In 2013, fans poured out into Kenmore Square overturning cars and climbing traffic lights. At least nine people were arrested in the aftermath of a 6-1 win over the St, Louis Cardinals that would send them to the World Series.

Police told Patch they would not release further information about safety measures in Kenmore Square but noted it might be smart for drivers to steer clear if they can. Speaking of traffic, don't get stuck. Check out the traffic and parking restrictions are in effect during the World Series games here.

In the past, police have put up barricades and added officers to patrol the area.

Related:

Watch: World Series schedule, game times
And Don't Get Bamboozled: Watch Out For Fake World Series Tickets

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Photo courtesy Boston Police