I was ashamed

I am not a wuss, not easily offended, not above occasional salty language to make a point. But I never direct that language at someone in anger, and I can count on one hand the number of times I've had it directed at me in that way - until Saturday.

I attended the big game with my brother Dave, my husband Aaron and 15-year-old son Cameron. There were also some friends and clients of my brother's in our group, some of whom were BYU fans. Those of you who know me know I graduated from the U . . . twice. But Saturday, I was ashamed of my alma mater.

As we walked to the stadium, every group wearing blue was greeted with multiple "F--- you!"s or a middle finger or both. A fight broke out near where my brother and son were sitting that got so out of control, Dave thought he should get Cameron out of there. Where we were sitting, a guy behind us found out one guy in our party was a BYU fan and shouted, "You've got to be f---in' kidding me!" repeatedly throughout the game. He would also shout "Break his legs" or arms or something else every time the U was on defense. We felt insecure enough that I spent the game worrying about our new friend being hurt rather than celebrating the terrific play on the field.

The U is my university. I went to school there. I taught in the Communications Department. I served on the Crimson Club board for several years. And I may never attend another football game. If I cannot feel safe in the stands, safe enough to not only attend myself but take my children or friends, I don't want to be there. And before you tell me this is just the way sporting events are, that this happens at other stadiums, let me admit that you may be right. And if that dehumanizing of our culture is prevalent enough, then I'll rethink my behavior in other arenas as well. But for now, the celebration of my school's perfect season is dampened by the inexcusable behavior of its out-of-control fans.