They will start this fall?

[Robert E. Harrison]

Starting this fall, the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association and the state attorney general's office will implement what they are calling a “trash-talk ban” on the more than 400 schools that fall under the NJSIAA’s umbrella. Under the new guidelines, athletic teams will be held to the same anti-bullying laws that apply to the schools they represent.

According to The Associated Press, “participants could be in trouble if they make harassing statements related to gender, race, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or religion.” NBC New York also reports that "'unduly provocative language or action toward officials, opponents or spectators also won't be tolerated," citing NJSIAA executive director Steven Timko.

[ozzy6900]

Sigh..... why don't they just ban all forms of communication - it would be easier to enforce.

[RPatrino]

I know that I am personally offended when someone uses unduly provocative language with me.

[CT1]

Why would the AG get involved? Is this now going to be a misdemeanor in NJ? Will they stop games & arrest the offenders?

Inquiring minds want to know.......

[jicecone]

I believe the rule book already has this covered. We will probably now have to ask at the beginning of each contest if all their players and equipment are in conformance NFHS rules and have all their players passed a certified anti-bullying course. Also are those certificates on file.

We will then be allowed to commence with the game once fingerprints are taken and checked out by the local FBI agent that will be required to be in attendance for each sporting contest.

Otherwise it will be business as usual.

[Publius]

Originally Posted by Robert E. Harrison

NBC New York also reports that "'unduly provocative language or action toward officials, opponents or spectators also won't be tolerated," citing NJSIAA executive director Steven Timko.

It was before?