As the local school sports season gets underway, a new school policy has been adopted by the Jenkins County Board of Education and will be strictly enforced at all school athletic events.

The Good Sportsmanship Policy sets guidelines for the behavior of not only students and athletes, but also coaches and spectators at all athletic events. Unacceptable behavior, as noted by the policy, includes fighting, verbal confrontations, profanity, degrading remarks and intimidating actions directed as officials, referees and competitors.

Those who participate in such activities may be removed from the event, suspended from attending any athletic events for the remainder of the school year or have any other consequence that the school principal feels is appropriate imposed upon them.

"We are going to enforce this policy, and there may be people who are banned from attending athletic events if they don't abide by the policy," said Jenkins County High School Principal Dr. Joseph Kirkland.

Spectators should also be aware that they are not allowed to enter the competition area during warm-ups or while the event is being conducted. Also, no children under the age of six will be admitted to athletic events without being accompanied by a parent or guardian.

School officials are quick to point out that the purpose of the Good Sportsmanship Policy is to insure that the local school system will be represented in a positive manner and that everyone participating and attending school athletic events have an enjoyable and safe experience.