let the boys play

Hello world, it's game time!

Sports are a fantastic use of time for any young person. It keeps people occupied and out of trouble, it keeps them active, and away from any problematic issues that may arise in their lives. It distracts people from troubling issues that may be going on in their lives. That being said, please, "just let the boys play!"

I am quoting Denzel Washington in his role as Herman Boone in the movie Remember the Titans. He is referring to strong racial discrimination that his team is encountering, and he is telling the refs to just let his team play.

That quote should be kept in mind when parents, students, and other fans show up to a game. Parents; let your children play. They are trying their hardest, and any intent for you to "coach" them when they are in the game is hindering any potential growth that they may have during the game. Their coaches are paid to do the job that you are trying to do from the bleachers. You are confusing your children, and setting a poor example for everyone there. When you yell at the coach or at the ref, you say to others that yelling at a coach or a ref is okay, and should be done more often. Yes, everyone yells at the refs, and yes, they do miss some calls, but there is no need to jump down their throats on every little thing that happens. Sometimes, things happen that are out of their control. Sometimes, they miss things. You are embarrassing your children and yourself if you make a spectacle at a sporting event. Please, just let the boys play.

Students and fans; let the boys play. There is no need to get on the case of the other team. There is no need to use foul language. Cheer for your team, and show your support, but there is no need to yell obscenities when someone misses a shot, or shanks a kick. You paid good money to get into the game, and yes, you do have the right to (mostly) do what you like, but some things should be refrained from (obviously). So please, fans, students, let the boys play.

I understand that this may not go over as well as some may like, and that this is just a simple blog, but if I can get one person to realize that some of their actions at a sporting event were crass and careless, or even shameful, and that they will change in the future, I have done my job. Please, I implore you, if you go to a game in the future and get the urge to yell something at a ref or coach or opposing play, think before you speak, and then... Let the boys play!!

Best of luck in all your future endeavors!