Using the "n" word

[JRutledge]

Originally posted by Mark T. DeNucci, Sr.
Come on guys. Doesn't anybody have some intestional fortitude. I don't care what the level of play is (NFHS/jr. H.S. and H.S., NCAA, FIBA, NBA/WNBA), this is a flagrant technical foul. This kind of conduct has no place in sports no matter what the sport or level of sport: amatuer or professional.

MTD, Sr.

Neither the NCAA nor the NF rulebooks say anything about any language is a flagrant foul automatically. All the rules say is it can be ruled so by if the official deems the actions to be flagrant. There is nothing that supports your position at all. NF Rule 10-3-7b says it is against the rules to use inappropriate language and gestures. It says nothing about what is inappropriate or that if used it is an ejection. NF Rule 10-3-7c says, "Baiting or taunting an opponent." Not sure a single word that neither the player is offended by (rightly or wrongly) could be considered flagrant if especially when said amongst teammates. There is not even a casebook situation that suggests anything specific.

Now I do not have a problem if you have a personal preference, but do not use the rulebook as the gauge for backing up that philosophy directly. Language changes over time and can be interpreted differently depending one what part of the country you live or even social class of the individuals talking. Things I used to say when I was a teenager are not the same things I would say today. There was a time when you could not say “B@t@h” on TV, not it is used on network TV during family sitcoms. Now that is tame compared to many slang terms used today. So I think you need to go buy what might be the standard in your area. Just do not tell me the NF, NCAA, FIBA and NBA take a stand on this word or any for that matter.

Peace