In the Massachusetts fight, Michael Costin was beaten unconscious in front of young hockey players, including his own sons, after arguing with Thomas Junta, who was charged with manslaughter. Junta's lawyer said he was acting in self-defense. Typical cases range from name-calling and shoving to officials' vehicles being run off the road by irate parents, according to the National Association of Sports Officials. Even the verbal abuse has gotten worse, spokesman Bob Still said. Complacency in the Stands Stills cites complacency in the stands.
People allow it to happen.
It's the parents policing the other parents. The physical has become commonplace. Robert F. Canaby, executive director of the National Federation of State High School Associations in Indianapolis, sees a new attitude on the field as well. Being disrespectful toward your competitor has creeped in as an element of the contest. Parents are also part of the problem, said Fred Engh, president of the National Alliance for Youth Sports, a West Palm Beach nonprofit that promotes fun and safety.