Did Virginia Tech Make the Right Decision?

[The Ancient Enemy]

After the terrible tragedy on Monday in which an angry kid not only killed the people he was mad at, but also slaughtered people he had no connection to, Frank Beamer and the Hokie football team have canceled spring football. What do you think about this? Do you think that Virginia Tech made the right decision here? I think that closing that building for the rest of the year was a good decision, but I am not so on-board with this one. I tend to see this as "don't give that idiot any more satisfaction and let him ruin your lives more". I tend to follow the philosophy of "onward we go", I guess. It's a good gesture and I am sure many kids are very affected by this. But, isn't the big picture here for all young adults in a time of this severe crisis to be taught how to cope and build off the unfortunate experience? I would think that trudging ahead, for these kids, is a powerful lesson that can only benefit them as human beings. What do you think?

[Dfense wins games]

I can only imagine what those students are going through. I think that what ever the school board chooses is the best situation. I thought to myself that this could have happened on any campus, anywhere. . Now put yourself in their shoes, they could have been in that classroom, or he could have gone to another building. Emotionally, I believe these students do need time off, part to morn, part to help deal with the stress and drama. You do bring up a good point about 'moving on', but sometimes that just isnt the right path to take.

[Weapon X]

Its hard to say, everything is still really fresh in everyones mind and it might be too early too move on at this point. Kids need time and I think everyone assocatied with the campus has the mentality of, "there are more important things in life" to worry about finals, sports, or anything else. Honestly, if I was currently a student there, I would have a hard time going back at all this semester. I think it would be just too eerie being back. Thats just me though.

[vman]

Good points all! Going forward is certainly a wonderful & effective prescription but I believe there are times when sports obviously take a back seat. I feel this is one of those times! Friggin Spring Football pares to what families, friends, classmates & relatives of victims are experiencing now.

I would never mimimize grief counseling but sometimes time is the only thing that may heel these tragic, tragic wounds. And when in such a situation words just seem to come up short 'cause they can't begin to parallel or touch the deep pain & loss. Vman rarely gives advice but in such circumstance w/ a friend or loved one - the best thing one can do is simply be there for the other person!

My prayers are w/ all...God bless them & give them strength to carry on!!

[The Ancient Enemy]

Let me ask you this: does Frank Beamer cancel spring ball if VT opens the season with USC?

[The Ancient Enemy]

I think I know the exact answer your silence has revealed.

Real-life doesn't give you a 6 month grieving period when the 'crap' hits the fan. If we're in the business of not only winning championships but also in showing boys how to become men, then start practicing.

PS... I'm not dumb enough to think there's not 50 unofficial practices a week, or kids getting together on their own with instructions from coaches.