There is no excuse for what these kids did to the referee and they should be punished. Certainly their coaches and parents need to be educated as well.
Let's not forget, however, that football is a violent game where aggression and macho are rewarded. While I believe the game has changed for the better over the years, with more
protection and better rules we still see thousands of injuries each year.
When I played, almost 50 years ago, my coaches used phrases like "kill, destroy, inflict pain, crush and smash" your opponents. If the opposing quarterback was knocked unconscious
you were embraced by the coaches and held up as a example of a "tough, motivated player".
I would not let my son play football (although he played soccer and lacrosse which were not without risks) and my grandchildren will not play either. Just not worth the risk of injury or death.
If adults want to bash their brains out playing football, Rugby, Boxing, cage fighting, hockey, etc...that is their right but not sure if children benefit from some of these "sports".
Sometimes you reap what you sow!
