Singapore News: Violent Behaviour during Soccer Match

With regard to the Siglap Secondary School's boy who fractured a Victoria School's player during a soccer game, the punishment by Siglap's Secondary School is obviously too vague. It will also not really help Siglap's schoolboy.

The penalty: Ban the schoolboy for one match.

What if he fractures another boy's jaw again in another game? Simply ban him for one more match again?

The penalty was to ban the boy for only 1 match, and after that to let him 'practise' his behaviour. Though well intended, that was not a good reason or a good way.

Simply, other people's sons are not for the Siglap boy to 'practise' his behaviour. Practise playing in his own school first, then consider letting him play again - with careful supervision.

What caused the incident? When Siglap's boy said he regretted it and 'didn't know why he did it' (or to this effect), it shows a cause that could be deep-seated.

The boy needs some kind of a psychological assessment and certainly counselling to see if he is suitable to play soccer, and if so, how soon.

Besides, has he been playing violent computer games? Has he been watching too much violent movies? Has the school taught their students sportsmanship? Was the school playing down the issue?

What kind of compensations has he made?

Bear in mind that, though that was a soccer game where accidents do happen, punching the opponent WAS NOT an accident.

The boy can still be handed over to the police or even sued in court for assault.