Somebody Call George Carlin

There is an article in today's USA Today that deals with the topic of boorish fan behavior at college sporting events. It specifically cites a Maryland-Duke basketball game this season where the Maryland fans shouted "Fuck you, J.J!," every time Duke's J.J. Redick stepped up to take a free throw. University officials fear they have no way to discipline with foul-mouthed fans without running afoul of the First Amendment (as it is a state run school). I'm not sure on the legal issue, but, c'mon, is that the best you can do? We did worse in high school, if I remember correctly. Not as vulgar, to be sure, but more psychologically damaging, I think. And don't forget some of the well rehearsed chants heard in English soccer stadiums - the ones not suitable for prime time sensibilities (except during the SuperBowl halftime show, apparently).

So, yes, the kids are being boorish and juvenile - what did you expect? George Carlin has a truly dirty cheer that he cooked up for some occassion. I can only recall that it ends with "hooray lizard shit fuck!" That's more like it!

For an example that clearly crosses the line into insulting, consider that before the a United States Olympic qualifying soccer match in Mexico this week the Mexican crowd was chanting "Osama! Osama!" during our National Anthem. Still bitter about Korea, I see!