Let’s just entitle this a Random Thought because that’s what it really is:

A few nights ago, I tuned into MSG to watch the hyped up High School Boys Championship Game between Brooklyn rivals Lincoln and Boys & Girls. After a competitive first half, it wasn’t much of a contest as Rail Splitters’ star sophomore forward Lance Stephenson took over in the deciding third scoring 13 of his game high 29- taking home the MVP trophy en route to a 75-50 victory leading his school to a repeat at Madison Square Garden.

There was little doubt that Stephenson and his teammates should’ve been the story on this special night in winning their fourth PSAL title in five years. But unfortunately, the game was only part of the story. During the second half, fights broke out in the stands between spectators who obviously forgot how to act at a sporting event, marring it for many. As I watched, it was evident what was taking place. While play was going on late in the third quarter, spectators stood up and turned to watch this catastrophe which never should’ve taken place.

The extreme circumstances led to 21 arrests and plenty of coverage on local media outlets such as CBS, NBC and ABC as well as major networks across the country. Not exactly what the World’s Most Famous Arena had in mind. Really disturbing. Due to what took place, The Garden has banned future HS sporting events from taking place at night and will only permit the respective families of the participating players to attend its venue.

As a diehard hoops fan who has attended classic games in the past, it disappoints me a little that regular basketball supporters will get left out. But I also understand why and agree with the decision. They had to take quick action here and came to a sensible decision.
Sadly, this kind of stuff sometimes happens at games and not just at the high school level. As a diehard Ranger supporter who attends about 15-20 home games up in Section 411 most of the time, I’ve been witness to some share stupidity during this season. Once out on the concourse between periods of a game the Blueshirts were trailing to the archrival Islanders, I saw a few drunken Ranger fans get in the face of an Islander fan, who dared to wear a Rick DiPietro jersey. What was said was just so immature, it bordered on absurd. The fan who was there with his girlfriend did nothing to incite them. I took it upon myself to get in the middle and help keep the peace. Eventually, Garden security came and everything worked out.

During a more recent game between the two clubs in which the Rangers prevailed 2-1 in a shootout, I got to see something even worse. This time, an intoxicated Fishsticks fan got into it with a few Ranger fans. Apparently, from what my brother told me, this fan was yapping the whole night and making the experience for others deplorable. At first, as I was by the concession stand waiting for play to stop so I could get back to my seat, it looked like the two sides would go their separate ways. But then the Islander fan made a really disparaging remark which can’t be repeated. Predictably, at least three Ranger fans got up and jumped the guy. I believe at least two really nailed him against the wall. I didn’t watch much of it afterwards as it truly disgusted me.

MSG security was a little late in responding. Maybe if they had gotten there earlier when the heated debate ensued, nothing would’ve followed. In this instance, this unruly fan got what they deserved because they crossed the line. However, it doesn’t make the actions of a few right. I don’t condone what took place.

My thoughts on opposing fans cheering on their team is quite simple. As long as they act appropriately and cheer without mouthing off or obnoxiously getting up and pointing, I have never had a problem. What must be understood by the vast majority is that you’re not always going to have everyone in a building supporting the home team. I’ve always tried to talk to opposing fans and get their thoughts to show that there are a few good people out there who don’t take things personally if they’re wearing god forbid another jersey. It’s a sporting event. Not life and death.
I believe the crux of the problem is the alcohol that’s served at these games. Clearly, there needs to be a limit on how many someone can have. The problem with that is they could easily go to a different vendor and purchase more beers, which makes it nearly impossible to keep some from getting lit up.

Like most, I like to have a brew every now and then (who doesn’t love a Heineken or Guinness). But I have always been responsible and never crossed the line. And it’s really easy to figure out why. From my vantage point, I don’t want to spoil the night for others by making an ass of myself. Secondly, I don’t believe fighting should ever occur at these games. For the most part, everyone is there to have a good time and enjoy themselves. That’s why I attend games with my Dad, bro and his buddy. Nothing more. Nothing less.

That’s how it should be!