Soccer referee dies after being attcked by player.

[Sparky Guy]

Here is a good reason why ANY sport at ANY level can not tolerate threats to an official.

Police: Utah referee punched by player during game dies - News | FOX Sports on MSN

 

[GOINGDEEP]

You beat me to it Sparky, I just read this story on a friends Facebook. Very sad.

 

[Amy in AZ.]

I have been following this story. It is a good example of what I try to tell people - that one blow can kill someone. A million times, it will not - but there is always that one time. This whole story is awful.

 

[JAD]

Very sad.......

 

[softballphreak]

Not just the individual, but the whole organization should be held liable. This kind of behavior must be checked!

 

[coach james]

Unbelievable... very sad
Our prayers go out to their families.

 

[sluggers]

Generally, rec level referees/umpires are paid almost nothing. It is amazing anyone puts up with all the crap that comes from dealing with unruly coaches, parents and players.

 

[MandM]

You know we had that thread on here a bit ago about the middle school player who punched an opposing player in the throat out of frustration for getting out. Several OPs myself included, spoke of zero tolerance for this type of behavior- IMO this is where it can lead, unintended consequences. Better for the player to learn a very harsh lesson at a young age, than allow them to get bigger and stronger with their temper unchecked.

How tragic for the victim's family- and how sad for the family of this 17YO as he has now irrevocably changed the course of his own life.