New Jersey Bans Trash-Talking In High School Games

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The state of New Jersey has instituted a ban on trash-talking in high school sports. According to CBS News, beginning this season anyone found in violation will be subject to penalties ranging from team or individual sanctions to even possibly being investigated by the state’s Civil Rights Division.

The new rules were announced by the The New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association and the state Attorney General’s Office during a jointly held press conference. The policy will also be in place for spectators in the stands.

“If it’s out there and you set a standard and you heighten the awareness of the consequences of it, I really believe that athletes will keep themselves from getting involved in any type of trash talking/bullying,” Dr. Theodore F. D’Alessio, Millburn H. S. Director of Athletics, told 1010 WINS, stressing that the policy is not aimed at stopping student-athletes from saying things as basic as “I’m better than you.”

“This is more when it’s starting to get to be tremendously offensive in terms of race, gender, sexual orientation,” added New Jersey Interscholastic Athletic Association Assistant Direction Larry White.

Indeed, the letter-of the-law targets anyone who makes harassing statements related to gender, race, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or religion. Referees will also be required to report incidents for possible further investigation.

“We’re getting tougher in all forms of discrimination and, so, I think it’s just following suit.” added North Jersey Football Association member Fran Valenzano. Authorities also stressed the new rules are aimed at bringing athletic events more in line with the state’s anti-bullying laws for schools.

Still, not all students seem convinced the new rules will change the game for better. “You just try to get into each other’s heads because you’re just trying to get into the moment,” said dejected high school runner cross country Chris Fuksman.

On the other hand, parents like Javier Fernandez are hopeful the rules reach will extend far beyond the playing surface.

“If they trash talk on the field, they’ll do it outside the field,” she told CBS. “It’s a lesson that will carry them through life.”

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