Go, Mom, Go!

A youth hockey mom ran onto the ice and yelled at the refs for not stopping several fights (which had gone on for an excessive amount of time) last weekend. This episode occurred during a tournament game, so the players were likely appalled by the mom's actions.

You can view the video clip on Inside Edition here.

If I ran out on the ice, my boys would have been mortified. But...I have to admit that given the right circumstances, I would have done the same thing as the mom in the video. I will cross the humiliation line when it comes to protecting my children.

I will do whatever is necessary to keep my children safe. I will speak up and stop a parent from beating his child at a store. I will confront a teacher if I hear her berating a child in a classroom. I will immediately stop a child molester from touching a child inappropriately.

Is running onto the ice to stop a hockey fight any different from these scenarios? In my opinion, no. It is protecting children. Point blank.

Truth be told, I have stopped a parent from beating his child in a Target store. I have reprimanded a coach for inappropriate coaching during a game (I have only done this one time in 17 years, btw). I have even stood between an irate parent and a coach during a heated discussion in order to stop potential punches.

My children have all been embarrassed by my actions at one time or another. However, my actions are no different than enforcing bedtimes. There are just some things that are mandatory.

I beg you...protect your children.

Good and Bad Sportsmanship

Inside Edition featured a couple of videos which displayed good and bad sportsmanship. Check it out at:  GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP WINS OUT.

I find it amazing that some people get caught up in excitement in extreme ways. The young girl in the first video was about to place first in a huge race, yet she stopped to help an ailing competitor. The older girl in the second video pulled a pair of cleats right out of a young child's hands.

I think that older girl (more specifically 45 years old I believe) could use some counseling. She should certainly have the ability to control herself and not go gaga over a star football player.

In my opinion, sportsmanship comes down to a combination of personality, how a child is raised, and what a child has been taught. What do you think?