The reason given, according to the referees: Campbell, as a woman, could not be put in a position of authority over boys because of the academy’s beliefs.
So far, so irritating religious-based sexism, of the kind that infuriates, but does not surprise. But what did surprise (and delight) me was that her male colleagues refused to cover the game:
Campbell then walked off the court along with Darin Putthoff, the referee who was to work the game with her.
Fred Shockey, who was getting ready to leave the gym after officiating two junior high games, said he was told there had been an emergency and was asked to stay and officiate two more games.
“When I found out what the emergency was, I said there was no way I was going to work those games,” said Shockey, who spent 12 years in the Army and became a ref about three years ago. “I have been led by some of the finest women this nation has to offer, and there was no way I was going to go along with that.”
The Kansas State High School Activities Association is now considering removing St. Mary’s Academy from its list of approved schools.
That seriously brightened by day.
Comment by Greg D. — February 25, 2008 @ 7:47 pm
““I have been led by some of the finest women this nation has to offer, and there was no way I was going to go along with that.””
Or, in other words, “If they’re good enough to preside over a group of trained soldiers, they’re good enough to preside over your g-damned sports game!”
Really, though, that hole situation is just MADE of WIN and “OWNED” :-p!
Comment by David W — March 1, 2008 @ 1:45 am