Editorial: Security at sporting events needs to be ramped up

This past week, I saw something very disturbing in Washington D.C. where people were shot outside of the Washington Nationals baseball stadium. This disturbs me because not only could more people have been shot, but someone I knew from childhood was there.

I have an issue with people bringing their issues to an atmosphere where possibly be hurt. It is wrong regardless, but baseball is a game where kids go to enjoy time with their parents.

Looking back, we need more security at sporting events, especially at the high school level. I feel that people need to go through metal detectors as in today’s society, something very bad can happen at one of these high school sporting events. It does not matter if the high school is in the worst or best neighborhood, when it comes to sports anything can happen.

One of the possible factors could be gambling, which elevates some risks. If you think people are not gambling on high school sports, then you’re sadly mistaken. You may ask where my data and my answer is for you to use your common sense. Factor in parents who get overly emotional and start acting irrational and you have a recipe for disaster.

People are ill-tempered. Whether it’s a gun, knife, or other weapon, we have no idea how people will act or any given day. It does not matter whether it’s a boys’ or girls’ game, there’s always a risk.

I applaud both Charles City and New Kent for keeping the right protection at their events so that people will feel safe. Schools always have detail and great plans that are kept secretive for our safety. Hopefully people can learn from this and continue to understand that the world continues to change, and you have to change with those times.

The Washington Nationals game should be a wake-up call. No matter what level the sporting event is, safety should be taken seriously. Don’t be naïve and say it can’t happen here.