BYU-I staff encourages sportsmanlike behavior after property damage

During a non-competitive basketball game on May 17, a player took out his frustration on school grounds, damaging a door, drinking fountain and hand sanitizer dispenser at the BYU-Idaho Center.

The player‘s frustration was due to confusion over who would play the next game. He damaged property and violently abused and insulted the players and staff, according to a player on the pitch.

The player was eventually persuaded to leave the stadium by players and staff, and security was not involved.

BYU-Idaho The recreation staff responded that they were promoting sportsmanship and offered advice.

“Walk away. Calm down, take a little breath and come back in when you feel like you’re back in balance,” said employee Caleb Tonks.

Damaged door. Photo credit: Robert Howley

If players do not calm down, recreation staff will first attempt to remove the player from the building. If the attempt is unsuccessful, security will be called. Behavior that violates BYU-I’s sportsmanship and recreation policies violates the school’s Honor Code.

“The best competition is healthy competition,” Tonks said. “If you get into unhealthy competition, you create a big whirlwind effect where everyone is upset, whether it’s the officials or another player.”

Damaged hand sanitizer dispenser. Photo credit: Robert Howley

The staff also encouraged players at the I-Center to stay in the same frame of mind as if they were at a worship service, since both the courts and the worship service are in the same building.

“You go to the prayer room to learn and edify yourself,” said Tonks. “Coming here should be the same. We try to create a positive environment.”

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