In all cases, such behavior by players and coaches can be handled through the rules of the game. However, physical abuse crosses the line. When someone charges an official with an intent to cause bodily harm, then prosecution must be a recourse. Otherwise, you are declaring open season on all sports officials. If the behavior of those who cross the line goes unpunished, then the number of officials working such events will continue to decline.
Many officials now wonder if it is worth it.
Our community youth programs and high schools need officials to ensure that events are conducted safely and fair. In todays litigious society, it is important to learn and understand how courts either protect or distance themselves from our colleagues in each state. On the federal level, Congress in 1997 passed legislation designed to protect volunteers of nonprofit organizations from legal liability in the performance of services for a nonprofit organization. The law removes volunteers from liability caused by an act or omission of the volunteer on behalf of the organization. The law does not protect volunteers if the act or omission was caused by willful or criminal misconduct, gross negligence, reckless misconduct, or a flagrant indifference to the rights or safety of the individual harmed.