Kentucky spectator conduct policy suspends ejected fans

The Kentucky High School Athletic Association (KHSAA) adopted a “spectator conduct” provision that suspends spectators who are ejected from games.

The approved policy states that any adult spectator at a KHSAA sanctioned event who is removed by school administrators or law enforcement for unsportsmanlike conduct will be suspended from attending, at minimum, the next contest.

“It is my sincere hope, and I believe that of our Board, that this penalty never be implemented and this be yet another tool in the toolbox of our school administrators to address some of the concerns we see throughout the year, ” said KHSAA Commissioner Julian Tackett. “Hopefully this is a deterrent that, when implemented in our schools, becomes that one last chance for people to stop short of acting in such an unsportsmanlike manner that ejection is the only option.”

Fan conduct has been a growing concern in high schools, and it’s partly responsible for the decline in referees. According to a National Association of Sports Officials survey, more than 75% of all high school officials say “adult behavior” is the main reason they quit.

Kentucky’s policy is similar to what was adopted in Indiana last month. Indiana’s policy calls for a suspension of two games if a fan is ejected for a second time.

Learn more about what’s taking place in Kentucky.