A new bill would allow the Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission to fine people who are disruptive or physically obstruct.
St. Paul, Minn. — From Little League to the high school level, this is the dark side of youth sports.
Reports of rowdy spectators, including parents, are increasing, and in a recent survey of thousands of referees, umpires and officials, 70% said sportsmanship was getting worse. And half of all officials surveyed said they feared for their safety.
There is currently a crackdown on people disrupting games at the Minnesota State Capitol.
“There may be moments where you forget it's about the kids,” St. Louis Park parent Chris Brissett said as he watched his son play basketball. “I also think kids can learn a lot about life from this.”
However, some experts would say some people have forgotten these lessons.
“We want to send a message, we want to take action,” said Congressman John Foote. “If you come down on the floor and in any way aggressively attack a player, coach, referee or game official, you have crossed the line.”
Rep. Huot, who is not only a lawmaker but also a referee for 20 years, plans to introduce a new bill next week that would penalize the worst offenders. Some colleagues have reported being followed to his home, having popcorn thrown at him and even having his whistle ripped off.
“We forget that this is a game, this is an experience for the students, and you want it to be a positive experience,” said Rep. Huot. “This is not a positive experience.”
His new bill would allow the Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission to impose fines of up to $1,000 on those who disrupt youth athletic activities. This includes entering the playing field, entering objects into the playing field, and physically interfering with the referee.
“I'm going to make bad decisions, and I've made bad decisions, but that's part of the game,” Rep. Huot said. “It's okay to feel good. That's what we tell our players. It's okay. Just be respectful.”
This growing tension is also a contributing factor to the persistent shortage of referees, and Representative Huot is even more determined to pass this bill so that all students can take on the challenge of life.
“We want to make sure they are at the forefront of our minds and really keep the focus on them,” Brissett said.
This bill also creates a so-called specific financial resource fund. This is an account in which all civil fines collected go toward hiring and training more referees, opening new clinics, and paying a portion of administrative costs.
If you are assessed a fine, you may request a hearing in writing within 15 days of receiving the notice. If you do not request a hearing, you will lose your right to one.
The Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) did not comment on the new bill, saying it had not yet seen it. But league officials say lobbyists in the state Legislature are considering it.
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