Very inappropriate comments from fans and how to address

[JugglingReferee]

Originally Posted by kgeorge0263

It has now happened 2 times to me where a fan has made a very inappropriate racial comment towards me during my basketball games.

The first situation, I was called a "chink" in some manner where they yelled about either my calls or not having calls for their team. I was offended, but did not let it bother me. I looked into the crowd to let that individual know I heard them, but could not pinpoint the individual.

Today, I had someone say something similar with chinaman in it. Same thing...I could not tell who it was.

What do you think is appropriate to do in this situation? I know certain races/ethnicities are highly offended by certain words used against them, so being a proud Korean, I do take offense to these comments.

Any words of wisdom would be helpful.....

Thanks...

When racism towards an official comes up, it needs to be dealt with immediately, and to the fullest extent of your authority. The game is stopped and the person is removed immediately. For me, this is about as close to "always" as I can imagine.

If a team is on a scoring threat, wait until after the basket before stopping play. Find game management and inform him of the situation... that the game does not start again until the fan is identified and removed.

Even if some comment didn't bother you, the same comment might offend another official, and we need to be consistent in these matters.