‘Bench Bad Behavior’ At School Athletic Events: East Brunswick Superintendent

EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ – Good sportsmanship is an important element at any athletic event. Especially during sporting events at schools. But often spectators get carried away and display unsportsmanlike behavior towards, players, coaches and fans.

The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) has started an initiative called "Bench Bad Behavior.” This initiative, supported by the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA), promotes respect, integrity and sportsmanship at school athletic events.

And now East Brunswick Public Schools is participating in the campaign to ensure the Township is represented with “class and dignity.”

“Please remember when you attend any athletic event at East Brunswick High School or Churchill Junior High School, there is an expectation of demonstrating positive support for the players, coaches, fans and officials,” Superintendent Victor Valeski said during Thursday’s Board of Education meeting.

“The players, coaches and officials are out to do the very best they can for every moment of the game. Please lead by example to encourage a positive experience for all when attending our athletic events.”

According to the NFHS, bad behavior by adult fans continues to be a serious issue at high school athletic events, making it difficult to recruit and retain high school officials in every state.

The “Bench Bad Behavior” campaign hopes to involve everyone to do their part in curbing unsporting behavior.

“We want to represent East Brunswick with class and dignity. Our players compete in scholastic athletics for fun and for the love of the game,” Valeski said.

To learn more about the initiative, click here.

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