Fan?

A fan as defined by Wikipedia, is ' someone who has an intense appreciation for something(s) or someone(s)'. Sounds positive, doesn't it? Yesterday I had the joy of watching my nine year old son play in a soccer match. Not only have I come to know his teammates, but I knew several of the opponents. I am surely not a soccer fan by the above definition, but I am a fan of good athletic play. Thus I cheered for both teams. (That might have changed if the score had been closer). I have admittedly (though begrudgingly and belatedly) clapped (only one clap mind you) for the opposing team at a major league game. Shouldn't a true sports fan appreciate good play on both sides?
There are true fans of teams and there are 'band-wagon sitters'. True fans follow their teams through winning and losing seasons. 'Band-wagon sitters' display team colours and watch games only in the good times. If the latter are questioned about 'their' team's loss or poor season, one is met with silence, a lame excuse, or a defense of ignorance ('band-wagon sitters' can also jump off the wagon). When 'their' team is winning, 'band-wagon sitters' play their instruments loudly and often out of tune with the sport itself. Once again I ask if a true sports fan shouldn't appreciate good play on both sides.
To follow a team does mean one must defend everything that team does. One can disagree with the front office, the manager, or a player. If one wishes his/her team to win, one must disagree when the best option is not chosen. This is not disloyalty to the team. but loyalty to the sport. Could we change the 'or' to a 'and' in the opening definition? I expect a fan to be fairly knowledgeable and concerned about the sport itself.
ESPN is partially to blame for this blog. (My apologies to those at ESPN that attempt to rise above their managements' narrow viewpoint.) Their reporting and coverage is blatantly biased. Their knowledge conveyed is at a novice level. The sports news given is minimal. Their (perhaps as well as baseball's) emphasis on home-runs is a disservice to that sport. Their coverage of several athletes borders on worship. Pardon my complaining, but their networks could be so much better. This fan wants more depth and relevant information. I will attempt to provide some of this to other fans.