They scan my ticket and I’m in. Stomping feet shake the student section. Smiles reach eyes as I take my seat. The Allen Eagles run out and we scream in response. Then, the opponents come out and the crowd really goes wild… booing.

Booing happens at almost every high school football game. Most students believe that booing is essential, mandatory even. But like a few other students, I disagree.

Heckling another team just isn’t playing fair. The Eagles have won 50 games in a row with a considerable point difference between them and their opponents. Our stadium is a reflection of how much faith we have in our team. With this in mind, students are almost positive that the Eagles won’t lose. So, if you’re so confident in them, then just root for our team instead of bashing theirs.

Moreover, booing leads to faulty judgements about “what kind of kids you are,” as my mother says. Teachers don’t approve because it is disrespectful and makes us, as students, seem pretentious and shallow giving Allen having a bad image. Our game scores, not our bad attitude, should speak for us.

Finally, to belittle another team does not make ours any better. What makes us better is how we treat others and stay humble with our trophies representing us on our side. Some may argue that booing is a part of school spirit but, there are many ways to support your team other than jeering at the enemy. You can buy spirit wear and dress to impress at the Eagle Edge, or you can even make a colorful sign. I appreciate “Go team!” and “We’re #1!” Short and sweet, with minimal room for mistakes. My personal favorite way to encourage the Eagles is a little thing called “cheering.”

All in all, we’re mocking the opponents for no reason, just big talk. There is no benefit to booing. Don’t get me wrong, I agree the crowd should be loud, just loud with encouragement rather than heckling.