[Mark T. DeNucci, Sr.]

Nowhere in the NFHS and NCAA rule books does it say that use of a vulgarity to be a technical foul that it must be directed toward an opponent or an official. The use of a vulgarity by a participant in a sporting event is unacceptable.

This past Fall in a boys' H.S. varsity soccer game a player called his teammate a F-ing SOB and not only did I hear it but about ten other player heard it. The player was mad at his teammate for missing a header on a crossing pass. I sent the player off (red card), that is soccer speak for being disqualified. I had no objection from the player's coach. This occured 1-1/2 minutes into the game.

We officials are the real protectors of the integrity of the game. Just because vulgarity is becoming acceptable by some segments of society is no reason to lower our standards of acceptable behavior.

There is no place for that kind of behavior by a player or a coach and should not be tolerated.