School spirit squelched
Last week, I witnessed a social tragedy. The tragedy was that an enthusiasm not often seen in the youth of today was stamped out. It was as if the very heart and soul of 40 young high school students were ripped out.
I’m speaking of the York Suburban girl’s volleyball game against Northeastern last week.
To comment on this letter, click on “Comments” below
York Suburban students were enthusiastically showing school spirit in the stands. They were painted black & orange, they were cheering, and when Suburban scored a critical point, they were on their feet celebrating. Athletes from basketball, soccer, football, swimming, golf, and field hockey were in attendance. It was great to see students supporting their school and fellow athletes.
What happened? Three fans were wrongfully accused of being out of control, and were told to leave the gym by a York Suburban official. When one of the students pressed for a reason, the official told him that they had been standing too long. I was absolutely flabbergasted. I felt compelled to inform the official that the students were not out of line but rather were demonstrating school spirit. He told me, (get this), that it was not my place to question his authority. The entire section of previously energetic, enthusiastic students were now sitting quietly, afraid to do anything. The next day the three students suspended from the next volleyball game as well.
Three observations:
1. Newsflash for York Suburban: It’s a gym not a library.
2. Authority can most certainly be questioned. In fact the only place you can’t question authority is in a TYRANNY.
3. Suburban is lucky to have a group of students like these.
Those students were expressing themselves in a positive and constructive manner. There were no warnings from the referees. They were there to support their fellow athletes and express school spirit. Why are we squelching that? It’s sad that our society has become so up tight that we have a problem with our young people having fun and celebrating life.
Those students are owed an apology.
John Badovinac
Spring Garden Township
It's not a YSHS rule. It's a league rule. Your ire is misplaced. Most school gyms have the rule posted that spectators must remain seated during the game. Violating it could get your team a technical if the official chooses to enforce it.