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Selma High School and Southside High School resumed their basketball rivalry on Jan. 11. 

The games, originally slated for Jan. 10, were rescheduled because of the threat of stormy weather predicted to hit the area. Anytime Southside and Selma clash in basketball, we make every effort to attend those games and Jan. 11 was no exception. 

The conduct of the youth at both schools raised cause for concern, not just for school officials, but for us as well. Between the girls’ and boys’ basketball games, four fights broke out. Selma Police Department officers escorted some of the kids out of the gym. 

We are not placing blame on the superintendents, principals and coaches but we are putting the responsibility on the students’ parents. If a parent drops a child off at an event, they should advise the child to behave properly according to the school system’s standards.

Someone could have been seriously hurt last week. If that had occurred, Selma City Schools may have faced a lawsuit that it doesn’t need right now.

We are advising parents to ensure their children will behave responsibly, for everyone’s safety. Let us all help ensure safety at sporting events by enjoying the game and supporting the teams.