A Special Message for Parents, Fans, and Even Coaches Written By: commissioner The following open letter was posted on the girls' website Sticks Up. This message should also be directed to all of us: A Special Message from Sticks Up! to Parents and Fans The Sticks Up! staff has been chasing lacrosse balls for fourteen seasons. The most satisfying part has been to watch the growth of the sport. There are now over fifty high school girls varsity teams in Ohio, and additional JV, middle school and youth teams. (The high school boys teams now number 64) The game has gotten faster, the players quicker and more physical. We probably see as many or more games and different teams than anyone, save our hard working officials. This year we have watched a growing trend with great concern. Verbal abuse of officials has escalated far beyond "Come on Ref" and "How can you make that call." As the sport grows, our pool of officials must grow with it. It is a thankless job. Many of our officials are working games every night and multiple games on the weekend. Some are leaving the game, not because they can’t take it, but because they shouldn’t have to take it. Young former players, who would make excellent officials, are reluctant to do so, because of fan abuse. Do officials make mistakes? Of course, but more often than not, we have see fans criticize a call that was actually the correct call. The fan didn’t know the rules. We were informed of a recent incident of fans following officials out of the stadium and continuing to berate them. THAT IS ABSOLUTELY UNACCEPTABLE IN THIS GAME. If we do not support and encourage our officials, we will be faced with limiting the number of games teams can play. No officials, no games. Coaches are coaching, and shouldn’t be responsible for policing the fans in the stands. We encourage parent organizations and booster clubs to take a stand on this issue. Do not tolerate fans abusing officials. Speak up and tell the abusers to shut up! Parent organization should organize rules meetings and provide rule books and information about the game, especially to new parents. As tournament time approaches, emotions will be running high, there will be close games and close calls. Sportsmanship in the stands is as important as sportsmanship on the field. How will your actions reflect on your team, your school and your daughters (sons)? OHSLA News A Special Message for Parents, Fans, and Even Coaches