New discrimination training required by OSAA | Sports

OSAA, the state’s high school sports governing body, previously shared the recommendations in assorted formats. The slideshow collects it all in one place and for the first time requires participants to sign off that they reviewed it. Peter Weber, OSAA executive director, said consequences for not getting certified could include fines and forfeits. 

“This hopefully sends a message about the seriousness we’re taking in this area,” Weber said.

OSAA placed two districts on probation last school year after racist incidents at sporting events. The association hadn’t taken such action in years, but Weber said he’s unsure whether such racial incidents have increased. Instead, through media and better social understanding, people have become more aware of discriminatory behaviors, Weber said.

The National Federation of State High School Associations, the national rule-making body for high school sports, made sportsmanship its No. 1 emphasis for the coming school year. NFHS CEO Karissa Niehoff contributed voice work for the OSAA slideshow. 

La Grande School District board member Robin Maille appreciates the mandatory training.  The La Grande football team was accused of using racists taunts last year. The OSAA investigation was inconclusive, but La Grande instituted racial-equity training, including OSAA’s S.T.A.R. Initiative. The initiative promotes creating a safe and welcoming environment and immediately disrupting discriminatory behaviors. Maille, the board chair at the time, said incidents likely happen more often than most people think, and it’s good that school officials are being told to be more aware and responsive. She said fans, players and school officials need to remember that high school sports aren’t just about winning. Instead, Maille said, high school sports are about building confidence and providing positive opportunities for everyone.