Have you ever been to a rivalry football or volleyball game? If so, you’ve probably heard taunting and witnessed fights. You may have heard inappropriate things coming from students and parents alike. Poor sportsmanship is a growing problem facing high schools and colleges nationwide.Recently, Falcon High School sent eight students and two staff members to a Colorado High School Athletics Association Sportsmanship Symposium in hopes of learning to control an unruly crowd and keeping spirit alive during games. This symposium was held in Denver and covered topics from game management to organizing fun and positive activities for all ages. The theme of the symposium was “Cheer for your team and not against your opponent.”Many people are unfamiliar with the CHSAA rules for watching a game. For example, all artificial noisemakers and amplified instruments are prohibited. Even the band cannot play while the clock is running. All banners or signs must be approved by administration before being distributed or posted.CHSAA also has many behavior guidelines: “You may not use disrespectful conduct, including profanity, obscene gestures or comments, offensive remarks of a sexual nature, or other actions that demean individuals or the event.” Officials, coaches, athletes or spectators are not to be physically approached or taunted.Falcon High School’s administration, cheerleading squad, link crew and other school-sponsored groups are searching for a solution to bad sportsmanship, as well as trying to make our crowd more lively and spirited.”The problem with our crowd is that there are a lot of immature guys that like to rebel and go against what everyone wants them to do. So they turn their backs on cheerleaders and all authority figures. I think the best solution is to form a designated liaison in the crowd,” said Raul Franco, junior at FHS.The group that attended the CHSAA symposium has been brainstorming about starting a crowd-led spirit group called the “Falcon Fanatics” that will regulate the crowd and steer away from negative and degrading cheers. This “liaison” will help control an untamed crowd and keep sportsmanship in line. Student council and link crew have also been evaluating the problem, although an immediate solution has not yet come into play.”Right now we don’t have any plans, but I do hope to discuss it and then take action because I think it’s a pressing issue that needs to be dealt with,” said Brittney Best, senior and student body president.Not only does CHSAA want to change sportsmanship of the crowd, but also encourages athletes, coaches and referees to all practice good ethics and set a good example.”If everyone shows school spirit and community support, our players will feed off of the enthusiasm being created around them,” said Jason Catron, head football coach at FHS.Falcon High School and CHSAA would like athletes to strive for victory, build good character and rise to the top of their league.For more information on CHSAA, sports schedules or CHSAA regulations, visit their website at www.chsaa.org.
