In recent months, we have witnessed incidents or have read articles and commentaries on unsportsmanlike behavior from around the country -- fans who are disruptive and destructive, coaches publicly attacking or criticizing officials or striking fans, and students destroying opposing school property. In one incident, an announcer ridiculed the opposing institution's core beliefs and reputation as if it were just another play on the football field.

On a positive note:

It is the responsibility of the presidents, administrators and coaches to educate student-athletes and fans on the importance of good sportsmanship. Beyond unsportsmanlike conduct, we often see subtle gamesmanship behavior that undermines the values of fair play -- for example, placing the home student fans directly behind the visiting bench, allowing the grass to grow a little longer on the soccer field to slow down play or allowing coaches to teach techniques that give the student-athlete an unfair advantage. Conferences and institutions that choose not to punish their coaches, fans or student-athletes for such conduct often make it difficult for their peers to enforce their policies and penalties. Ignoring the indiscretion is as bad as advocating the behavior.

The NCAA Committee on Sportsmanship and Ethical Conduct met earlier to discuss how to assist conferences and institutions with these kinds of issues. Additionally, the Division I Men's Basketball Committee has requested that a number of groups within the NCAA provide guidance, particularly in educating participants about their obligation as role models. With this in mind, our committee is looking to provide institutions and conferences with helpful guidelines regarding sportsmanship and gamesmanship. Examples include requiring an upper-level administrator to attend each home contest, seating the home fans (particularly the students and bands) away from the visiting team bench, and placing security around the visiting-team bench, and providing such security when the visiting team and officials leave the playing field.

We also need to evaluate how our actions and our emphasis on facility access are influencing fan behavior. Are we conscious of how our announcers call the game and refer to or make note of an injured opponent? And as recent events have shown, are we prepared to handle the excitement of our spectators rushing the field at the end of a big game? This phenomenon has become increasingly dangerous and often requires the assistance of law enforcement to maintain control. One immediate answer to these questions is preparing our coaches, administrators and student-athletes to speak out and condemn such behavior. Engaging campus leaders in a meaningful dialogue may lead to effective changes as well.

On many campuses, much is done to create a fun or party environment around the game with tailgating, live bands and alcohol. The mixture can be a volatile one with players, coaches and fans being put in high-risk situations that could lead to injuries and lawsuits. Few will dispute that alcohol -- and a growing sense of thrill-seeking -- has made the actions that follow our games very dangerous indeed.

Whether we choose to be or not, those of us in the spotlight of college athletics are seen as role models. Our actions, both on and off the playing fields, have a direct impact on alumni, fans and young athletes. What we say and, in particular, how we act reflect not only on our institutions but have a lasting effect on our youth. In the months ahead, we hope to provide suggestions and a means of dialogue regarding these negative acts that clearly threaten the positive aspects of college athletics.

Chandra V. Bierwirth, associate athletics director and senior woman administrator at Marist College, chairs the NCAA Committee on Sportsmanship and Ethical Conduct.