It has been quite some time since President Samuelson chastised the BYU student body for their behavior at sporting events. I've attended all the home games this season but I have not seen his lecture take effect. Has anyone noticed our President's presence at the games and seen his reaction after student outbursts? He has repeatedly shaken his head in disgust and embarrassment. I think the lack of sportsmanship at sporting events is despicable and needs to change.
As students of BYU, we have agreed to be respectful, by abiding to the Honor Code. Our actions at the basketball games do not reflect this commitment. I recently waited with other students to get tickets to the Utah game when I overheard a student say; Just be a good sport tonight so you don't get kicked out and lose your tickets, save it for the Utah game. This attitude displays the lack of character some students show at sporting events. Sports do not require us to change who we are. We can have fun supporting our team and still maintain our high standards.
Athletic director Val Hale addressed this element of sportsmanship in a 1991 Ensign article, saying, 'Some might argue that sports are insignificant in the eternal scheme of things and yelling at referees or opposing players and throwing tantrums are relatively harmless acts. But the scriptures are clear; the Lord deplores any type of contention.' His words still apply today.
After a football game this past season, I read an Associated Press article commenting on the poor sportsmanship of the BYU fans in addition to the outcome of the game. This type of conduct creates a negative image of BYU, and portrays our character as nothing to admire.
It's ok to yell and encourage the players, but this can be done while being a good sport. We ought to be mature enough to act sophisticated and behave respectfully. We cannot support our team by yelling and cursing to show our disagreement. I know not all the students are involved and I admire those who have tried to solve the problem. I know we can enjoy future games while upholding better standards.
Dan White
St. Paul, Minnesota