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Councillor’s actions do little to encourage young officials

Roger Wade should know better than to use social media for cruelty

Re: Langford Coun. Roger Wade's Facebook posts

It would appear that some people believe they are above reproach. When a person sets himself up as a role model, such as being a part of the sports community and a leader, or as a municipal councillor, that person is open to public scrutiny.

If a person is watching a sports event and spontaneously comes out with a rude, negative comment at that event, in some places that might be acceptable. However, when an adult takes the time to set up a video, and post a message which is very personal on Facebook, that is not acceptable. It could be perceived as premeditated, uncontrolled rage.

An apology for this type of cruelty does not stop the victim from re-playing the whole happening over and over again.

How many young people have given up on learning to officiate due to the continual badgering? There is a shortage of officials already in some sports and now it could get even worse with the fear of ending up on Facebook.

Can any of this be undone? No, but, we could start by showing mutual respect and practise sportsmanship.

The fact that some sports associations do not allow parents to watch their children play should tell us something.

I have always been of the opinion that activities, regardless of whether they are sports, card games, horseback riding, etc., that people take part in them to learn, to communicate, to socialize and to have fun.

Positive comments go a long way in encouraging people to want to be a part of a community.

Here’s a true story to consider: Greg, a seven year old hockey player, is leaving the arena with his mom. Mr. Creston is arriving with his son. Mr. Creston asks, “How did your game go Greg?” He answers, “Oh, really good ‘cause my dad wasn’t there.”

(Greg’s dad had been banned from the arena for one year.)

Sharon Sinclair

Colwood