At a flyball tournament this weekend, an asshat on another team was wearing a Vick jersey (while running dogs and box loading). Many were very offended. I decided that I was going to say something to him, so I politely told him that I found it offensive, as did many other competitors. His response, "That's the point."
As we discussed on our team, if he had simply said he was supporting his team, fine. If he had said that he felt Vick served his time and deserved another chance, fine. (well, we'd have to agree to disagree at least). But to do it just to be spiteful in such a venue is beyond me.
Yes, he did it for attention, and by discussing it, I am giving him the attention he wants. I don't care. Asshats are asshats and my actions aren't going to change that fact.
So, if you are running an event, or are participating in one, what would your reaction be, if any? This is a public event, but there should be some level of control over the participants. A team member said she was asked to remove a T-shirt that had Spuds McKenzie on it, with tire marks, with the phrase S--- Happens. Not a real situation with Spuds being run over, and it was a joke, but she complied because others were offended. It was just a jersey, not a "Dog Fighting is Awesome" shirt...but the intention was made clear by him.
Thoughts?
