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Posted on March 25, 2004 ...

A couple of weeks ago I made my first visit to Knoxville’s Lindsey Nelson Stadium, home of the University of Tennessee Baseball Volunteers. Michelle and I got great seats just over the visiting team’s dugout. The Vols scored runs in every inning and won by a lopsided margin of 12 to 2. I even caught one of the t-shirts that were tossed into the stands during the 7th inning stretch! But the most memorable part of the experience was hearing the taunts of a young spectator sitting in the Tennessee student section. I jokingly said that this young co-ed’s academic major must be in “heckling.” His voice projected all across the stadium as he razzed the Vols’ opponents at every opportunity. After a couple of miscues, the heckler began referring to the shortstop as “E-6”. When the catcher dropped a foul pop-up, he became the object of ribbing. The heckler even recommended that the team purchase Tom Emanski's Defensive Drills Baseball Video endorsed by Fred McGriff! While he never used profane language, this fan was relentless in his jeers.

I realize, at that level, heckling is an expected part of the game. Players cannot compete on a college level without developing some thick skin against such verbal criticism. But we all know such behavior has no place in sporting events for minor children. Instead, these venues should be havens of good sportsmanship on all levels. Encouragement, not sarcasm, should dominate the atmosphere.

To help toward that end, our church is producing free mini “Fan Signs” for baseball and softball teams in our local recreational leagues. These signs will carry positive messages of support for the players. But we need YOUR HELP in getting them into the hands of the fans. First, if your family participates in a local team, you can distribute signs both to your fans and even to the fans of your opponents. (Now THAT’S good sportsmanship.) Or, you can distribute an assortment of team signs during opening day activities at the local parks on Saturday, April 3. Will you help? Please indicate your willingness to assist on your worship registration form this Sunday. Thanks.