Everyone talks about it, and no one does anything about it.

NFHS Emphasis on Dissent: RULE 12-8-1c states that objecting by word of mouth or action to any decision given by an official is dissent. However, simply disagreeing with an official’s decision isn’t always dissent and/or sanctioned by a yellow card. There are several factors to consider in each situation. Referees should evaluate potential dissent by asking if the display is public, personal, or provocative. Expressions of frustration or disappointment or private dissatisfaction not directed at anyone can usually be handled by a verbal warning or private discussion with the player. Continual public complaining, prolonged and repeated actions, or personally directed comments towards the referee of their decision must be dealt with and should be cautioned. Beyond dissent gestures or language that are inappropriate, foul and abuse directed at an opponent, teammate or official, threaten physical harm, and/or taunting must be dealt with immediately and result in a disqualification to that player. These same considerations should be considered when dealing with coaches or any other individuals in the team area.

NFHS Emphasis on Sportsmanship: Coaches set the tone at athletic contests with their display of sportsmanship. If these individuals act in a sportsmanlike manner, their behavior sets the tone for players, spectators and others. If coaches, however, are complaining constantly about the decision of contest officials, spectators are more likely to do the same.

There must be a collaborative, working relationship between contest officials and game administration to promote good sportsmanship and safely conduct the contest. Everyone has their roles to play in creating a positive, sportsmanlike atmosphere at contests.

Officials should focus on the actions of players, coaches and other bench/sideline personnel. A positive, open line of communication between officials and coaches ultimately results in a better contest for everyone involved.

Contest officials, however, should never engage with spectators who are exhibiting unsporting behavior. Once the contest begins, school administration is responsible for dealing with unruly spectators. A proactive approach by school administration includes monitoring the behavior of spectators and intervening as needed.

“It is important to teach the kids character, teamwork, working together, and dealing with adversity. And you don’t deal with adversity by starting yelling at the officials.” -Michael Fitch, Executive Director of Texas Assoc of Sports Officials, association that decided to suspend the assignments of referees to schools that demonstrate a repeated culture of abuse.