In the wake of many pointed and disturbing commentaries illustrating how our conduct at the Delta Center last Friday tainted the image of the university and the church, it's obvious BYU fans need some instruction on the usage of 'the boo' atsporting events.
Booing is a way for spectators to show their displeasure over an injustice that occurs on the court and at times can serve a useful purpose.
Having experience officiating in church and city league games, I can attest that a coordinated boo by the crowd has a subconscious effect on an official who has made an obviously incorrect call. He will think more carefully before making that same bad call twice.
Our fans have taken this tool to the extreme as boos can be heard in response to ANY call that an official makes against our teams. Incessantly booing and screaming at referees is like unto the boy who cried wolf, soon the crowd's voice means nothing and referees will tune out.
A boo may also be merited in response to the conduct of an opposing player who throws an elbow or taunts the crowd. What's the point in booing an opposing player or team just because they're from another school? As fans, let's seek for opportunities to cheer our team and save the boos for when it really counts.
Scott Herd
Fruit Heights, UT