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Fans Removed From La Junta Basketball Game by La Junta Police - Officials Remind Community of Conduct Policies


Description: Basketball officials reinforce a zero-tolerance policy after disruptive fan behavior led to removals at a La Junta vs. James Irwin game. These rules stress respect, safety, and sportsmanship. Read the Letter to the Community from the Director of Basketball Officials Ernie Vigil...

Officials Address Fan Misconduct at La Junta Basketball Game, Reinforce Zero-Tolerance Policy
 
As the Area Director of Basketball Officials, I am addressing an incident that occurred on February 6, 2026, during a C-team basketball game between La Junta and James Irwin at the intermediate school. During this event, spectators had to be escorted out of the facility due to unacceptable and disruptive behavior.
 
As officials, we are committed to providing a safe, respectful, and enjoyable environment for all athletes, coaches, and spectators. The behavior observed—including verbal abuse, use of foul language, and encroachment onto the court—falls far below the standards of sportsmanship we expect in our community.
 
Officials, in partnership with school districts, are reinforcing a zero-tolerance policy regarding fan misconduct.
 
This includes, but is not limited to:
 
  • Respectful Communication: Negative verbal comments, personal attacks, or foul language directed at officials, players, or coaches are strictly prohibited.
  • Respectful Boundaries: Spectators must remain in designated seating areas and may not enter the playing court at any time.
  • Respect for Officials: Parents and fans must refrain from attempting to officiate from the stands.
Most schools already have established consequences for unruly behavior. Spectators who violate these expectations may face:
 
  • Verbal warning
  • Immediate removal from the facility
  • Long-term or permanent suspension from future events
We ask all supporters to act as respectful representatives of our community. Our goal is for games to be a positive experience where athletes are encouraged through supportive and enthusiastic sportsmanship.
 
Thank you for your cooperation in helping maintain a safe and respectful environment for everyone involved.
 
Ernie Vigil
Director of Basketball Officials
 
Excerpt from LJPD Incident Report:
 
02/06/2026 19:12:16
Referee stated that parents overall became unruly making unnecessary comments referees made the decision to remove all spectators from the gym so the game could proceed.
 
02/06/2026 19:12:53 
Multiple parents originally refused to leave the gym due to wanting to watch their kids play. Spoke with parents and the players the decision was made for the parents to leave the gym so the kids could continue playing.
 
02/06/2026 19:13:04 
All spectators left without an incident.