Game-time decision

Written by Hillsboro Free Press Tuesday, 09 October 2012 14:21

We understand the decision to cancel the Oct. 20 football game between Tabor College and McPherson College given the difficulty of the past couple of weeks following the beating death of Tabor student-athlete Brandon Brown and the eventual arrest of two former McPherson College students alleged to be involved in the crime.

We assume the decision was difficult. Playing the game could have sent a strong message of reconciliation, that the senseless and violent actions of a few don’t characterize the whole, and that both student bodies are committed to turn the page on an ugly and tragic chapter in their relationship.

At the same time, a football game may not be the best environment for rebuilding healthy connections. The nature of the sport itself is violent and quickly can turn heated and personal even in the best of situations. It’s a lot of responsibility to lay at the feet of young men who have already endured a lot.

At the end of the day, we have confidence in the leadership of the two colleges, and trust that they will find other ways to move on from this point. —DR