Stronger Anti-Bullying Rules To Govern Sporting Events at N.J. High Schools
By David Madden
ROBBINSVILLE, N.J. (CBS) -- Starting this fall, high school sports in New Jersey will be governed by tougher anti-bullying rules.
Rules of decorum have always been on the books, but this policy change makes things clearer. Trash talk someone by targeting their race, gender, or ethnicity, and the ref will come down on you.
Players, coaches, even fans in the stands are included.
"We've added a couple things that probably give us a little bit more to go on," says Larry White, assistant director of the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association, "but now we're looking to really ratchet up the enforcement part."
Referees can eject a player, coach, or fan, and will be required to report all incidents to the NJIAA, which will decide what additional action to take after the game is over. A team could be suspended and, if merited, the state Civil Rights Commission could be called in.
