GunScare @ Albion Cup?

Also, who in their right mind in this day and age pretends to have a gun? He had no idea who else might have a gun, hmmm, why would you act like that if you didn't have a gun? His defense, he was attacked??? He certainly looked put together, calmly walking around, hat in place. A lot of questions that still need to be answered. Who was he with? Who did he talk to on the way to the parking lot. Any video or still pictures need to be turned into law enforcement. Parents from those two teams do not have a good reputation, that being said, this falls on the behavior of the moron who went out on the field and assaulted the player and the man demonstrating a threatening stance as if he had a gun (?). Local law enforcement needs to get their sh-- together and not just brush this aside. A full and thorough investigation needs to be conducted before something really terrible happens. There are now plenty of traumatized children and parents who were there. Thank goodness no child was hit by a car as they were running through the parking lot.
Concerned citizens should commence putting pressure on the duly elected Riverside Sheriff to provide answers. We shouldn’t except them sweeping it under the rug either.
 
My club demands good sideline etiquette and just about every team we have come across has been pleasant for the most part. Emotions run high and people get loud, but most people remain civil. I'll admit I have not seen this type of violence and aggression at a game, ever. Yellow cards and even red cards will come out. It's why refs. have them. Coaches will dispute calls. Boys will get physical and stand their ground. I like to stick with reality. If the sideline behavior was to the point of insults/threats/etc. , action/discussions etc. should take place. If kids played dirty, the same. I just don't blame passion and support for assault.

What's next? No cheering when your team scores, because the other team's fans gets angry and may assault your kids on the field? No using your body, because a kid may fall and older siblings may run on the field and assault your kid?

I've worn four hats in soccer. As a baby ref on the side lines, I've had insults hurled at me from coaches, parents and players (including from a coach in a League Cup came where I was just present and helping out because one of the refs didn't show up and for which I didn't get paid). As a parent, I've seen my goalkeeper kid lying on the floor after a save and get kicked repeatedly and the A-hole ref did nothing to protect him or to manage a game where there were several obvious pushing fouls (not just strong shoulder-to-shoulder contact). As a coach, I've seen the crazy win-obsessed parents, the idiotic calls, and the difficulty of the politics in managing those parents. As a writer, I've gotten to objectively to see what's going on with America's sidelines. Yes, I think the majority of referees, parents and coaches do a good job, but the sidelines are out of control and I don't really think that's in doubt considering what I've seen with my own eyes.

There is a smaller problem and the bigger problem. The smaller problem is obvious which is don't bring weapons to soccer and don't run out onto the field and assault a kid. But even for the smaller problem CalSouth seems reluctant to say anything or issue punishment, considering this is the easier of the two situations.

The bigger problem is that the heated sidelines need to be controlled and that requires comprehensive reform. While not the immediate cause of this incident, it directly contributed to it, and incidents like these will continue to occur unless the sidelines are brought more under control. I've written to CalSouth expressing my profound disappointment at their failure to make a statement, along with my suggestions.
 
Concerned citizens should commence putting pressure on the duly elected Riverside Sheriff to provide answers. We shouldn’t except them sweeping it under the rug either.

The case may be in the hands of the applicable District Attorney, who decides to charge or not charge. To the extend folks put pressure on the Sheriff, that's also a pressure point.
 
This is scary. CCW, off duty police, whatever. Don't bring weapons people!!! Emotions run high at these things and people overreact. Not to mention, mass shootings and such.
My son used to regularly play against a team whose coach was a cop and always had his gun on his hip during games. This used to make me very uncomfortable, especially after I met him and discovered he wasn't the most... rational guy. Thankfully, we're not in that league anymore, but if we were, I'd probably lodge an official complaint.
 
I dont think the Azteca and Aztec clubs are the same.
But how amazing/disgusting/not really that surprising would it be?

Depending on how this is handled, the kid with older brother that assaults younger kids playing soccer finals could always find another club and the assaulting brother will follow at their games. The fan with the fake or real gun can also move to another club if his kid is on Azteca. To be perfectly honest, I've got no issue with sideline behavior of yet in club soccer. Maybe boy's games are more aggressive?? I don't know. I have an issue with threats and violence though especially on younger, smaller athletes PLAYING IN A DAMN FINAL! What flight were these boys?
 
Depending on how this is handled, the kid with older brother that assaults younger kids playing soccer finals could always find another club and the assaulting brother will follow at their games. The fan with the fake or real gun can also move to another club if his kid is on Azteca. To be perfectly honest, I've got no issue with sideline behavior of yet in club soccer. Maybe boy's games are more aggressive?? I don't know. I have an issue with threats and violence though especially on younger, smaller athletes PLAYING IN A DAMN FINAL! What flight were these boys?
Both flight 1 teams in the top 5 of socal. Not the type of players that can just slip away into the darkness of flight 2-3 club soccer.
 
My son used to regularly play against a team whose coach was a cop and always had his gun on his hip during games. This used to make me very uncomfortable, especially after I met him and discovered he wasn't the most... rational guy. Thankfully, we're not in that league anymore, but if we were, I'd probably lodge an official complaint.
What does CCW mean?....thx
 
Both flight 1 teams in the top 5 of socal. Not the type of players that can just slip away into the darkness of flight 2-3 club soccer.
Not that rankings matter but I don't believe either club is in top 5 if we are talking about 2008. Regardless there are plenty of clubs for these kids to join
 
Currently posted to Calsouth homepage ( below)

As someone who experienced this chaotic incident ( words will never fully describe the fear, uncertainty and horror hundreds of us went through) I’m pleased to see a response and Calsouth address this head on.

Cal South Statement Regarding Albion Tournament in Temecula, Calif.
Cal South is dedicated to providing a safe and enjoyable athletic experience. Adherence to Cal South’s standards for appropriate conduct, respect, and safety are mandatory. This applies to players, coaches, administrators, referees and spectators. Violations will not be tolerated and will be adjudicated to the fullest extent.
On January 12, 2020, an incident occurred at the Albion Soccer Club Development Showcase. An already heated soccer match was disrupted when an older sibling of one of the players came onto the pitch and assaulted an opposing player. Before the referees could address the situation and restore order, other spectators came onto the pitch. The resulting melee was intensified by unsubstantiated claims that a spectator possessed and was brandishing a “weapon,” which caused concern and panic throughout the venue. The authorities quickly responded to the complaint, conducted an initial investigation and confirmed the safety of the participants and supporters. Cal South treats this incident with the utmost seriousness. The behavior demonstrated by the persons involved will not be tolerated.
Cal South is investigating the situation with its affiliate member and the authorities, and while we review the incident, we are taking the following interim measures:
  • Due to the seriousness of the situation, both participating teams, their coaches, players, administrators and the spectators involved in this incident are suspended and ineligible to participate in any Cal South sanctioned tournaments until Cal South completes its investigation and holds hearings.
  • Failure of any team or its staff to participate in Cal South’s investigation will result in further disciplinary action up to and including de-registration from all Cal South sanctioned leagues.
Further, effective immediately, Cal South is implementing the following interim safety measures for the upcoming State and National Cup competitions:
  • On-site security personnel and/or law enforcement will be present at all the State and National Cup events throughout the State and National Cup Season. During the opening weekend of State Cup scheduled for January 18 and 19, the affected venues are Ryan Park in Escondido; Galway Downs in Temecula; Silverlakes Sports Complex in Norco; and the San Bernardino Soccer Complex.
  • The number of on-site Cal South personnel will be increased and spot auditing will be performed to assess and ensure compliance with Cal South safety and sportsmanship policies.
  • The number of on-site Referee Coordinators will be increased.
  • A “Home and Away” side initiative will be implemented and enforced to separate teams and supporters.
  • Coaches of participating teams and referee officials will be required to conduct a meet, greet and introduction session at the center circle prior to the start of each match.
  • Cal South’s Code of Conduct Policies will be recommunicated and reaffirmed to all coaches, administrators, and players participating in the competitions.
In addition, over the upcoming days, weeks, and months Cal South will be reviewing additional security and other measures, including, but not limited to, emergency evacuation plans, procedures, and training at facilities, working with referees to create a safer playing environment and holding coaches and clubs more accountable for the behavior of participants and spectators.
We understand that this incident has had an effect on many spectators and witnesses. To assist those persons, we are providing telephonic access to emotional support for anyone in the Cal South community. The service is provided by trained behavioral health counselors, is completely confidential, and offered at no cost for the next 30 days. The number to call is (866) 315-7370.
We wish to express our gratitude for the multiple inquires and recommendations received in the aftermath of this incident and we will respond to those inquiries. We look forward to working with the entire soccer community to ensure the safety, well-being and enjoyment of all participants. We will keep our members informed of the next steps to be taken.
 
Currently posted to Calsouth homepage ( below)

As someone who experienced this chaotic incident ( words will never fully describe the fear, uncertainty and horror hundreds of us went through) I’m pleased to see a response and Calsouth address this head on.

Cal South Statement Regarding Albion Tournament in Temecula, Calif.
Cal South is dedicated to providing a safe and enjoyable athletic experience. Adherence to Cal South’s standards for appropriate conduct, respect, and safety are mandatory. This applies to players, coaches, administrators, referees and spectators. Violations will not be tolerated and will be adjudicated to the fullest extent.
On January 12, 2020, an incident occurred at the Albion Soccer Club Development Showcase. An already heated soccer match was disrupted when an older sibling of one of the players came onto the pitch and assaulted an opposing player. Before the referees could address the situation and restore order, other spectators came onto the pitch. The resulting melee was intensified by unsubstantiated claims that a spectator possessed and was brandishing a “weapon,” which caused concern and panic throughout the venue. The authorities quickly responded to the complaint, conducted an initial investigation and confirmed the safety of the participants and supporters. Cal South treats this incident with the utmost seriousness. The behavior demonstrated by the persons involved will not be tolerated.
Cal South is investigating the situation with its affiliate member and the authorities, and while we review the incident, we are taking the following interim measures:
  • Due to the seriousness of the situation, both participating teams, their coaches, players, administrators and the spectators involved in this incident are suspended and ineligible to participate in any Cal South sanctioned tournaments until Cal South completes its investigation and holds hearings.
  • Failure of any team or its staff to participate in Cal South’s investigation will result in further disciplinary action up to and including de-registration from all Cal South sanctioned leagues.
Further, effective immediately, Cal South is implementing the following interim safety measures for the upcoming State and National Cup competitions:
  • On-site security personnel and/or law enforcement will be present at all the State and National Cup events throughout the State and National Cup Season. During the opening weekend of State Cup scheduled for January 18 and 19, the affected venues are Ryan Park in Escondido; Galway Downs in Temecula; Silverlakes Sports Complex in Norco; and the San Bernardino Soccer Complex.
  • The number of on-site Cal South personnel will be increased and spot auditing will be performed to assess and ensure compliance with Cal South safety and sportsmanship policies.
  • The number of on-site Referee Coordinators will be increased.
  • A “Home and Away” side initiative will be implemented and enforced to separate teams and supporters.
  • Coaches of participating teams and referee officials will be required to conduct a meet, greet and introduction session at the center circle prior to the start of each match.
  • Cal South’s Code of Conduct Policies will be recommunicated and reaffirmed to all coaches, administrators, and players participating in the competitions.
In addition, over the upcoming days, weeks, and months Cal South will be reviewing additional security and other measures, including, but not limited to, emergency evacuation plans, procedures, and training at facilities, working with referees to create a safer playing environment and holding coaches and clubs more accountable for the behavior of participants and spectators.
We understand that this incident has had an effect on many spectators and witnesses. To assist those persons, we are providing telephonic access to emotional support for anyone in the Cal South community. The service is provided by trained behavioral health counselors, is completely confidential, and offered at no cost for the next 30 days. The number to call is (866) 315-7370.
We wish to express our gratitude for the multiple inquires and recommendations received in the aftermath of this incident and we will respond to those inquiries. We look forward to working with the entire soccer community to ensure the safety, well-being and enjoyment of all participants. We will keep our members informed of the next steps to be taken.

Major kudos to Calsouth. Well written and excellent response. I was skeptical and I take back anything I said about Calsouth not caring about safety. I'm sure the public outcry had a lot to do with their response. Kudos to those who contacted Calsouth.
 
Currently posted to Calsouth homepage ( below)

As someone who experienced this chaotic incident ( words will never fully describe the fear, uncertainty and horror hundreds of us went through) I’m pleased to see a response and Calsouth address this head on.

Cal South Statement Regarding Albion Tournament in Temecula, Calif.
Cal South is dedicated to providing a safe and enjoyable athletic experience. Adherence to Cal South’s standards for appropriate conduct, respect, and safety are mandatory. This applies to players, coaches, administrators, referees and spectators. Violations will not be tolerated and will be adjudicated to the fullest extent.
On January 12, 2020, an incident occurred at the Albion Soccer Club Development Showcase. An already heated soccer match was disrupted when an older sibling of one of the players came onto the pitch and assaulted an opposing player. Before the referees could address the situation and restore order, other spectators came onto the pitch. The resulting melee was intensified by unsubstantiated claims that a spectator possessed and was brandishing a “weapon,” which caused concern and panic throughout the venue. The authorities quickly responded to the complaint, conducted an initial investigation and confirmed the safety of the participants and supporters. Cal South treats this incident with the utmost seriousness. The behavior demonstrated by the persons involved will not be tolerated.
Cal South is investigating the situation with its affiliate member and the authorities, and while we review the incident, we are taking the following interim measures:
  • Due to the seriousness of the situation, both participating teams, their coaches, players, administrators and the spectators involved in this incident are suspended and ineligible to participate in any Cal South sanctioned tournaments until Cal South completes its investigation and holds hearings.
  • Failure of any team or its staff to participate in Cal South’s investigation will result in further disciplinary action up to and including de-registration from all Cal South sanctioned leagues.
Further, effective immediately, Cal South is implementing the following interim safety measures for the upcoming State and National Cup competitions:
  • On-site security personnel and/or law enforcement will be present at all the State and National Cup events throughout the State and National Cup Season. During the opening weekend of State Cup scheduled for January 18 and 19, the affected venues are Ryan Park in Escondido; Galway Downs in Temecula; Silverlakes Sports Complex in Norco; and the San Bernardino Soccer Complex.
  • The number of on-site Cal South personnel will be increased and spot auditing will be performed to assess and ensure compliance with Cal South safety and sportsmanship policies.
  • The number of on-site Referee Coordinators will be increased.
  • A “Home and Away” side initiative will be implemented and enforced to separate teams and supporters.
  • Coaches of participating teams and referee officials will be required to conduct a meet, greet and introduction session at the center circle prior to the start of each match.
  • Cal South’s Code of Conduct Policies will be recommunicated and reaffirmed to all coaches, administrators, and players participating in the competitions.
In addition, over the upcoming days, weeks, and months Cal South will be reviewing additional security and other measures, including, but not limited to, emergency evacuation plans, procedures, and training at facilities, working with referees to create a safer playing environment and holding coaches and clubs more accountable for the behavior of participants and spectators.
We understand that this incident has had an effect on many spectators and witnesses. To assist those persons, we are providing telephonic access to emotional support for anyone in the Cal South community. The service is provided by trained behavioral health counselors, is completely confidential, and offered at no cost for the next 30 days. The number to call is (866) 315-7370.
We wish to express our gratitude for the multiple inquires and recommendations received in the aftermath of this incident and we will respond to those inquiries. We look forward to working with the entire soccer community to ensure the safety, well-being and enjoyment of all participants. We will keep our members informed of the next steps to be taken.

Over-reaction.
 
A “Home and Away” side initiative will be implemented and enforced to separate teams and supporters. :):D

This is how it was when my kids played from 2003 to 2014. The only time I seen problems was when parents were sitting on the same sidelines, and divided at the half towards the later part of their club years.

Thank You Cal South!!!
 
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