Following an incident during the Wortham Varsity Boys basketball game on Friday night, when a spectator had to be escorted from the building, Athletic Director Chad Coker issued a letter to parents regarding the school’s expectation regarding behavior in the stands.

He explained that the TASO officials’ organization, which staffs referees for school sports, has a three-strike policy. After which, the organization can refuse to officiate the games hosted by a school.

Without officials, the school loses the ability to play the games.

“Understand that Wortham ISD will begin hosting games without fans before we get to strike three and have the TASO organization refuse to officiate our games,” said Coach Coker. “We want our kids to be able to play. If our spectators want to watch our kids compete, then they should exhibit self-control and be mindful of their conduct and behavior.”

Coker explained that parents and spectators need to be aware that the school can remove them from the premises, and can prohibit them from attending future contest, due to undesirable behaviors.

Also, game officials can ask that school administrators have fans removed from a contest facility.

Individuals who are removed from the game will face the following consequences:

–1st Offense – the spectator will be put on a probationary period, in which the actions cannot be repeated.

–2nd Offense – the spectator will be put on a 30-day suspension from all home and away athletic contests involving Wortham ISD.

–3rd Offenses – the spectator will be banned from all Wortham ISD events for one calendar year.

Behavior Expectations of Spectators:

–Always support your team and the efforts of all participants involved.

–Do not intimidate or ridicule a player, coach, or official before, during or after a contest.

–Always praise athletes for their actions during a game; never degrade a participant for their efforts. Athletics are a learning experience for students, and mistakes will be made.

–A ticket is a privilege to observe the contest, not a license to verbally assault others or be generally obnoxious.

–Learn the rules of the game so that you may understand and appreciate why certain situations take place.

–Always respect the integrity and judgment of officials. They are present to regulate the flow and enforce the rules of the game. An official should never be degraded or ridiculed for a call they make.

–Show respect for the opposing players, coaches, spectators and support groups. Treat them as guests to your school.

–Use only cheers that support and uplift the teams involved.

–Recognize and show appreciations for an outstanding play by either team.

–Refrain from the use of any controlled substance (alcohol, drugs, etc.) before, during and after the game, on or near the site of the event (i.e. tailgating).

–Be a positive role model at events through your own actions and by censuring those around you whose behavior is unbecoming.

“We want our fans at the game,” said Athletic Director Coker. “Let’s demonstrate great sportsmanship and character as this is what we want to see in our athletes.”