Here's how to support your team in American Sign Language

Always wanted to learn American Sign Language while showing some love for your favorite team at the same time? Now's your chance! Jump right in with our easy-to-follow instructions that show you how to support your beloved sports idols using sign language. Whether it's clapping, celebrating victories, or even signing for those occasional losses (you know, just in case) - we've got you covered.

How to sign…

There are numerous ways to show support for your favorite team, ranging from banners and stadium chants to a good old round of applause. But how does that translate into sign language? We've teamed up with Dana from ASL Love, a certified American Sign Language interpreter, to guide you through the fundamentals of ASL for supporting your sports heroes.

Sports

Let's start with what it's all about: sports! For this sign, hold both hands in front of your chest, making fists with the thumbs pointing up. Then, move both hands forward and backward.

Game

Got sports down? Then the game is officially on! For the sign game, keep your hands in the same position - clenched fists with thumbs up - but this time bring your knuckles together, gently tapping them against each other.

Applause

To applaud in American Sign Language, raise both hands in the air with bent elbows. Then, quickly shake both hands with fingers spread, creating a fluttering motion.

Points

Scored the win? Then it's time to celebrate those points earned! For the sign points, use both index fingers, with the index finger of your dominant hand briefly touching the index finger of your non-dominant hand. (If you're right-handed, your dominant hand for signing is your right hand, while your left hand is considered your non-dominant hand - and the other way around).

Congratulations

When you want to congratulate your sports heroes (or, in a less fortunate scenario, the opponent), you bring both hands together, clasping them, and then make a calm, shaking motion.

Celebrate

Got something to celebrate? Here's how: make a fist with each hand. Stick out your index finger on each hand and bend it into a hook. Then, rotate both hands in short circles towards yourself, keeping that hooked finger bent. That's it - the sign for celebrate!

Win

To sign win, begin by extending your non-dominant hand in front of you, forming a fist, while keeping your thumb tucked in front of your fingers, creating the letter S handshape. Maintain this hand position. Next, with your dominant hand open, make a circular motion towards yourself, ending with this hand also in the letter S shape.

Lose

(This one's just for show, of course…) For the sign lose hold your non-dominant hand in front of you, palm facing up. Then, with your dominant hand, make the V-sign. Next, let your dominant hand fall downward onto the palm of your non-dominant hand.

Here it is! Your crash course in American Sign Language, featuring the key words to cheer on your favorite sports heroes. Got the hang of it? American Sign Language Day is on April 15th. Let's celebrate together!

Do you feel like winning too? Check out the latest betting tips and sports betting sites.