Barrington High School officials are asking fans to keep their cheering positive.

BHS Principal Chris Ashley sent an email to students and their families on Thursday afternoon, Feb. 9, reminding students and all spectators at Barrington High School sporting events to avoid negative or derogatory comments. 

“The administration has received recent reports that some Barrington High School students were potentially disrespectful towards an opposing team's players,” Ashley wrote in the email. 

“I am sending this message as a reminder to all our students and spectators of athletic events to keep the cheering and support positive. As in any school setting, we want all our students to model positive, enthusiastic behavior for exemplary athletic performance.”

Barrington High School Director of Athletics and Student Activities George Finn said there has been great energy coming from the fans at BHS sporting events this season. But, he added, there have been times when the crowds at basketball games have spilled over onto the court. 

“That could impact the game,” Finn said. “I want our fans to be loud, but be proud.”

The email from Ashley shared the same message. It also included the guidelines for spectator behavior as outlined by the RI Interscholastic League. 

• Always provide positive support for BHS teams. Never ridicule or degrade opposing teams or players. 

• Conduct yourself in an exemplary manner. Remember that you represent BHS both at home and away. 

• Use only positive cheers, signs, and chats during a game. Applaud the athletic performances of players on both teams. 

• Use only cheers that support and uplift players and teams. 

• Be a positive role model through your actions and behaviors.  

“We understand that players and spectators get excited during games,” Ashley wrote. “Excitement is part of the fun of participating in, and attending, athletic events; however, that excitement should never come across as derogatory or disrespectful towards any person or player. Please know we take any such misbehavior seriously, and the administration will investigate any alleged misconduct.”

The regular season home games for most Barrington High School winter sports teams have concluded, but Finn said it is very likely Eagles teams will host playoff games in the coming weeks.