Email from WIAA that says chants like "air ball," "fundamentals" are unsportsmanlike is under fire
MENOMONEE FALLS -- You can't go to a high school sporting event without hearing chants like "air ball" "fundamentals" and "scoreboard." But WIAA officials say these chants are unsportsmanlike. A recent email about chanting by students at sporting events is under fire. Some say it went too far.
"We help the players get up when they're down or keep the momentum moving," Casey Seidl, a student section leader at Menomonee Falls High School said.
Students at Menomonee Falls High School are fired up about an email sent by the WIAA to athletic directors across the state.
"I was really surprised," Brandon Kohnert, student section leader at Menomonee Falls High School said.
The email was intended to remind athletic directors about sportsmanship and student chanting during games.
What has caught the most attention is a list of phrases that are considered disrespectful -- chants like "air ball," "fundamentals" and "scoreboard."
"Those cheers go back 100 years. To change it now is tough," Ryan Anderson, Menomonee Falls High School athletic director.
Anderson says cheers and chants at sporting events in Menomonee Falls won't change.
"We tell them -- 'have fun, be respectful' and they are," Anderson said.
Todd Clark, the WIAA communications director said the email wasn't meant to upset anyone.
"Just a simple reminder to schools to keep sportsmanship in the foreground," Clark said.
Clark sent the email. He said the policy is nothing new -- but one that has been in place for years.
"It doesn't really change any policy or ban anything," Clark said.
Fans say they'll continue to have fun, and push their team during every game.
"It's not intended to hate on one person or one player," Kohnert said.
"We're here to help our team, help them get a victory and help them in the conference standings," Anderson said.
WIAA officials say because of the backlash, they may review this policy at the WIAA's meeting in April.
Menomonee Falls High School