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I'm not the type of guy to charge or sue people on a whim, and I'd like to think that most people are like that - especially officials - especially the ones that care enough to frequent this board.
We know we have to have a thick skin, that we need to check our egos, and that we must, from time to time, endure unpleasantness to do our job.
But this case clearly crosses the line of what is included in doing our job, and what NO ONE should have to endure, regardless of the situation. And, in my opinion, it ABSOLUTELY fits the criteria for a criminal charge of assault.
The fact that this official was lucky enough to have some small woman take 3-4 punches at him instead of her 6'6", 260lb son, is IRRELEVANT. What happens if that cop isn't parked outside? Maybe the husband joins in. Maybe his friends do. Maybe the whole crowd does. Then what? Is that unacceptable enough for you? Is that what it takes before you, as an official, say "enough"?
It's not about revenge, it's about drawing a line and backing it up. It's about reminding people that you don't get to do whatever the hell you like. It's about reminding people that officials have a tough job and ARE ENTITLED to a safe working environment. And, yes, it's about reminding administrators who need to promote more sportsmanship, respect, and common decency in their Athletic programs.
Maybe criminal charges aren't necessary here - maybe school administration clamps down, bans the parents from future games, or takes other action. But that's often tough for them to do. Maybe a proactive group of parents gets a wake-up call and pushes a program to promote fair play, sportsmanship, and respect. But don't hold your breath.
These people - and the ones who stood by and did nothing - need to understand that what happened is NOT ACCEPTABLE - PERIOD. If criminal charges are what it takes, so be it.
I close by asking this...what would you tell your kids if they witnessed this? Would you tell them it was acceptable?
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