Letter from the Editor

Where do we draw the line with “trash talking”?

By Marisa Kratochvil
Editor-in-Chief

In light of the recent Monmouth-Knox basketball game incident, this will be the last of its discussion (if I can help it). Regardless of my position at The Courier, I am a Monmouth College student as well and commend Nick Bush for his forthright letter in regards to the incident.

In his “Letter to the Editor,” Bush, acting as a captain and student, apologized to Monmouth College – President Ditzler, the new administration, alumni, Terry Glaskow, the football coaches/team and student body – for his offensive actions at the game. However, he brought up the issue of “trash talking” and its role at athletic events.

With no intention of fighting at the game, he commented, “Part of what makes the rivalry between the two schools [MC and Knox] a lot of fun is the trash talking that takes place.” With this in mind, one must recognize that trash talking does stir excitement and emotions; however, where should the college draw the line with “trash talking”? This type of verbal exchange between students cannot be avoided; it is embedded in the game to taunt and tease the opposing team. Nevertheless, when violence takes place and a fight breaks out, action must be taken.

I was surprised to hear about the Knox student allegedly punching a MC football player in the back of the head. I did not witness this scene, but I question why it was not talked about more. It seems the majority of the blame lay on MC students and overlooked the role Knox students played in the incident. It is a two way street: if a MC student is punished, then a Knox student should be punished as well.

In my opinion, those who allegedly acted in offensive manners should not represent the MC football team, or the college, as a whole; just because a few students, supposedly, “tarnished the outstanding achievements of the team,” according to Dave Allison ’56, who wrote a “Letter to the Editor” in February 3rd’s issue, MC should not get the blunt end of the stick. We have to look at the team, and college, as a whole and not let the actions of individuals ruin what we have accomplished.

As for taking the “high road,” which Allison pointed out, I think MC students do a great job. Yes, some profane language and gestures have probably been used, but in the heat of a sporting event it has to be expected. I am not saying that it should be tolerated, since it can become obnoxious and offensive, but rather that each situation has to be dealt with individually, case-by-case.

In summary, the new administration and the student body should be proud of what the college and its sports teams have accomplished this season. We must remember how vital fans are in the success of any athletic team and their support should not be taken for granted. Even though Bush has been banned from all MC sporting events, both home and away, the issue of “trash talking” at sporting events will not diminish. Bush stated, “I know somebody will now take my place and be known as ‘that guy’ at the games.” There will always be “that guy” in the crowd of spectators and the question must be acknowledged, where do we, as college personnel and students, draw the line when it comes to “trash talking”?