By Pat Trevino | August 27, 2025
I never thought I’d be back here—camera in hand, standing under Friday night lights, trying to capture the pride and pulse of Gobbler football. The last time I covered a game like this was back in 1998, working for a weekly paper where the biggest drama was whether the concession stand ran out of nachos. What I remember most from those days wasn’t the score—it was the spirit.
Respect. That was the word coaches drilled into their players. Win or lose, you lined up, slapped hands, and congratulated the other team. Spectators cheered for good plays—regardless of the jersey. Visitors were welcomed, not heckled. It was football, yes, but it was also a lesson in character.
So, imagine my shock when I returned to the field last season, camera ready, heart open, and then I heard something I never expected: a handful of our own Gobbler fans cussing out the opposing team. Not just a little razzing. I’m talking full-throated, venom-laced insults. “You suck!” “Get off the field!” And few other choice words.
At first, I thought I was hearing things. Then I braced myself to turn around, expecting to see a pack of rowdy teens. But no. These were grown men. Some in their late twenties and others, middle-aged, church-on-Sunday types. And they were yelling at kids. Children. Teenagers trying to play a game, represent their school, and maybe make their families proud.
I’m not trying to act holier-than-thou. Anyone who knows me knows I can cuss like a sailor when provoked. But this wasn’t provocation—it was cruelty. Directed at kids. And the only thing that came to mind was: How did we get here? Somewhere along the way, we stopped holding each other accountable for basic decency. And it shows.
Turns out, I’m not the only one disturbed. The problem’s gotten so bad across Texas that lawmakers had to step in. Senate Bill 2929, passed earlier this year, gives referees and officials the authority to eject spectators from school athletic events without warning if they’re behaving inappropriately. That means if you’re heckling, harassing, or threatening players—especially minors—you can be removed on the spot. No second chances. No “boys will be boys” excuses.
And honestly? Good!
Because if we’ve reached a point where grown adults need a law to remind them not to verbally assault children, then something’s gone sideways in our culture. Sports are supposed to teach teamwork, discipline, and yes—respect. Not just for the game, but for each other.
So here’s my plea: Let’s bring back the spirit I remember. The handshakes. The cheers for effort. The understanding that football is just a game—but how we treat each other lasts far longer than four quarters.
I’ll keep taking pictures. I’ll keep telling stories. But I hope the next time I turn around, I see fans lifting each other up—not tearing kids down.
