Saturday, October 31, 2009

SEC overreacts to criticism of officiating

Instead of recognizing the inferior quality of its officiating, the Southeastern Conference adopts a bunker mentality.

Earlier this week, SEC commissioner Mike Slive played the role of bully, warning that any coach who criticizes the referees will now be subject to a fine and/or suspension. He must have been so proud of himself.

We're constantly amazed how sports leagues can get away with squashing the first amendment rights of its employees, how they can exist in a vacuum above the law.

We wonder what would happen if a coach were to challenge a fine or suspension in court. Maybe they figure it wouldn't be worth the bother.

Of course, this is just one example of the controlling, micro-managing SEC playing the role of big brother.

It already has legislated fun out of its contests by preventing fans from running on to the field to celebate dramatic victories.

This, of course, is part of the college experience, but no longer in the SEC. The SEC says it is protecting fans, players and coaches from potential injury, but we find that to be utter nonsense. Rarely, if ever, does anyone get hurt in these celebrations. And, if someone does get hurt, it's their own fault.

Therefore, we wonder what the SEC's reaction was when the fans at Washington stormed the field to celebrate the Huskies' win over USC earlier this season.

We didn't hear anybody complaining about how unsafe the environment was at Huskies Stadium. The wild scene at the end of the game is what college football is all about. Too bad the SEC has forgotten that.

Anyway, the SEC's heavy-handed approach is why we always root against the league, and will continue to do so.

No comments:

Post a Comment