“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.
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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