Rise-Up Leaders, Rise-Up!

It is certainly no secret that unruly fan behavior continues to be on the rise throughout Oklahoma, as well as across the country in all sports. At some point, especially over the last two decades it has become more acceptable than ever for grown adults to scream and shout at other adults (game officials). If so many fans are rules experts, why do we have such a shortage of game officials?

News Flash - basketball officials are human and make mistakes...

Also trending in the wrong direction, is seemingly making it the responsibility of game officials to recommend having disorderly fans removed. The primary play from some leaders in charge at games today is to ignore or disappear when things get sticky. Unfortunately, in some cases school leaders choose to join the jeers, which serves as the ultimate approval of this type of behavior. On one occasion this year, we encountered a head coach that joined the fans in bantering the officials and allowing players to question game officials. This would not be all that strange normally, but I learned the next day that this coach is a school administrator…

Heckling has also transformed over the years from “c’mon ref that was a bad call” or “hey ref, footlocker called and needs their shirt back” to now “You ******* suck” or “if you would lose some weight, you might be able to keep up with the game.” Yes, in order to SERVE as an official, you must have thick skin and learn to ignore, but should you really have to endure personal attacks on a nightly basis? I would suggest not, unless you want varsity contest to be officiated by assistant coaches or moved to using playground rules, in which players call their own fouls.

The bottom line is the environment at sporting events continues to erode and become increasingly dangerous to student athletes, administrators, game officials and fellow spectators. The only way to reverse this trend is for ALL leaders to step up and adopt a zero-tolerance policy on any behavior that does not align with the mission or vision of your school. The football field, gym, track, baseball diamond, etc., are all extensions of your school, so what you allow is viewed as what is accepted. If you are an administrator that has a difficult time managing conflict or asking people to leave, contact your local police department and ask for assistance on game nights (don’t wait until there is a real problem).

Our young athletes need all of us to serve as positive role models and lead by example. This will not only enhance their experience in sports, but also give them a better understanding of teamwork, leadership, and sportsmanship, which will ultimately contribute to their long-term success.

Rise-Up Leaders, Rise-Up!

(For those administrators doing your part, you are greatly appreciated – so keep it up!)

Please feel free to share your thoughts, concerns, or ideas on how we can improve the experience for everyone.

​Thank you for reading 3 Seconds In the Stripes!