That said, I don’t know if booing by itself is a problem, if it the proper attitude attends the booing. Opposing teams should expect some booing at the home team’s venue, and referees making questionable calls also should expect a certain amount of criticism from the crowd. There were multiple highly questionable calls this season that contributed to huge momentum shifts against the Cougars. The problem is when booing is accompanied by derogatory comments, anger, hatred, etc. Comments to Bobick about “leaving the church” or being a “traitor to your religion” are beyond excessive. These show a complete lack of perspective. Sports exhibitions are fun, but they are only entertainment. They don’t have anything to do with eternal salvation nor are they necessary for happiness and peace in this life. Part of me is glad BYU had a couple of horrible seasons. I am a huge BYU football fan, but this season, after gentle rebuke from my good wife, I realized that the players and coaches have to feel the pain of their losses a whole lot more than I ever could imagine and that there is no reason to get worked up over wins or losses. Anyway, those are just some of my thoughts.

So the question is, should it be different at/for BYU? No. Is there reason or justification for people outside the church to act this way? No. Players that change teams should always expect a little hassling — it’s part of the sport and the competition. However, acting as if the particpant’s relgious status and eternal progression are at stake is just plain silly, and only shows the ignorance of the accuser. It’s not a higher standard — it’s just the standard. Evangelicals shouldn’t bring religion into competition, Jews shouldn’t bring religion into competition, Muslims shouldn’t bring religion into competition. Bobik’s coach may have placed the burden on the church, but that’s his bias to work out, not ours.

Higher standards for church members may exist, but they shouldn’t. And I really wonder if they do exist, or if members are just held more accountable. The world should expect these things from everyone – not just those who profess to have the true religion of Christ. These are moral standards that apply universally. When we expect the best, we’re more likely to get the best.

And how about those BYU Ballroom Dancers?

And don’t even get started with church sports – that T shirt that reads “The brawl that begins and ends with prayer” says it all.

All in all I think we are generally more inclinced to be nice.

But dragging the church into it is clearly excessive.

Also, insults shouldn’t be used unless they’re funny.

Notre Dame does the same thing for Navy, plus they play the opposing team’s fight song after every game.

The idea of sports is to throw yourself wholeheartedly into the thrill and pleasure of competition, but show by various magnanimous gestures that one is the right sort and respects one’s opponent.

However, I do think booing is required when a player really stabs his fans in the back e.g. Karl Malone joining the Lakers.

Go Utes!!!

Needless to say, I’m not booing or cheering.