Normally, I’m proud to say I graduated from BU. But on Thursday night, while attending the BU-BC hockey game, I would rather have received my degree from any other school, including BC. I was embarrassed to be a BU alumna not because of the loss suffered by the hockey team, but because certain fans in section N put on the most obnoxious and offensive spectacle I have ever seen at a sporting event.
During my time at BU, I went to at least three-quarters of the home hockey games. I understand that hockey fans are not known for their manners, and I know that trying to rattle the other team at every opportunity is seen as part of the job of a serious fan. However, rattling the other team shouldn’t include insulting a goalie by screaming, “Your mother is my whore, she costs $5” at the top of your lungs. Nor should it include repeatedly calling opposing players “fags” and using graphic language I know The Daily Free Press can’t print, particularly when this language is used in front of young fans. Harassing young BC fans less than 10 years old is also inappropriate.
But perhaps the most embarrassing moment for me was when a BC player was down on the ice for more than a minute and several BU fans in section N screamed he was a “pussy” and booed when he finally skated off the ice with the help of a trainer. No matter how serious a rivalry may be, the etiquette of an athletic event is simple: if someone is hurt, on your team or the other, you shut your mouth. And if that person finally manages to get up and limp off the field, the track or the ice, you clap. You do not call him or her names, and you do not boo the athlete.
So to the guys who made my night, and that of my friends, a lot less fun than it should have been: thanks for opening my eyes. BU hockey fans have a reputation for being the crudest and most obnoxious fans in the city, and until Thursday night, I’ve made the mistake of defending my alma mater. I now know that the reputation is well-earned, and next time I hear that particular criticism from someone at the office or in a bar, I’ll have to nod my head and agree.
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