Shame on you

Editor: As a lifelong Hanford resident and Fresno State fan, I wanted to voice my opinion about the recent W.A.C. Tournament held in Fresno.

My cousin is a member of the University of Hawaii softball team. Their entire family came from throughout California to watch the Fresno State vs. Hawaii tournament game.

Fresno State visited the University of Hawaii last month for a regular season game. They were treated very well by the University of Hawaii teams and fans. The Fresno State seniors were even presented with gifts from the Hawaii team. There were no problems in the stadium and everyone was very cordial.

From the time we entered the stadium, the University of Hawaii team and fans were treated with lack of respect. One of the young ladies from the Hawaii team was booed and called vile names. I realize last year, this same young lady may not have shown the best sportsmanship when Hawaii won the game against Fresno State. She was elated to have made the winning run. She was responding to provocation from the players and fans by showing the name on her jersey, however, she did not beat her chest as an "ape" as stated.

At the tournament not only were the Hawaii fans and players treated with disrespect, but the umpires were booed continuously for any call that went against Fresno. The announcers were frequently reminding the fans about good sportsmanship and not using profanity. I can understand pride for ones team - but blatant disrespect for officials, other teams' players and fans is unconscionable.

The game following the Fresno State vs. Hawaii game was University of Hawaii vs. University of Nevada. During the entire game the Fresno State fans booed the University of Hawaii team and once again treated them with disrespect. I hope in the future the Fresno State team and fans will learn from their mistakes and treat all persons regardless of their team affiliation with dignity and respect.

JENNIFER SHELDON

Hanford

(May 16, 2007)