Keene State abusive fans
I am writing to express serious concern about the conduct of Keene State College fans at a recent hockey game against New England College.
At the conclusion of the game, individuals in the crowd directed offensive and discriminatory slurs at the New England College goalie’s brother, who has special needs. The language used was demeaning, ableist and completely unacceptable in any setting, particularly at a college athletic event.
What was most troubling was the lack of response. Despite this behavior occurring in plain view, no action was taken by Keene State coaching staff, Keene State administrators present at the game or law enforcement. This absence of intervention sends the message that harassment and discriminatory language are tolerated.
College athletics should model sportsmanship, respect, and basic human decency — especially for students and young adults. What occurred at this game, and the failure to address it, fell far short of those standards.
I urge Keene State College to review this incident and make clear that abusive conduct by fans will not be tolerated. Silence and inaction only allow this behavior to continue.