Holbrook Apologizes For Fan Behavior
Oh No! Holbrook apologizes for the actions of Buckeye Fans based on 24 complaints.
http://www.nbc4i.com/cfoot572/4973727/detail.html
Holbrook Apologizes For Behavior Of Buckeye Faithful
Longhorn Fans Complain Of Rude Behavior
COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Ohio State officials are apologizing for the behavior of Buckeye fans during last Saturday's battle against Texas.
According to The Austin American Statesman, OSU received about 24 complaints from Texas fans about the behavior of some Buckeye faithful.
Through e-mails to university officials, Texas Longhorn fans described being harassed before, during and after the game, NBC 4's John Ivanic reported.
OSU President Dr. Karen Holbrook responded to an e-mail complaint:
"I will personally apologize for the poor treatment you received. We have been working very hard to change a culture from one that is disrespectful to one that is welcoming. Obviously, there is still much work to do."
In a forum on the Stateman's Web site, Texas fans vented their frustration. One person wrote:
"A few very gracious fans welcomed us and gave directions. Unfortunately, they were the minority. Animal House was filmed somewhere on their campus."
Another wrote:
"I feel confident in saying that no fans in America showed as little class as the OSU thugs I encountered this past Saturday."
Excerpts from e-mails to Holbrook said the beauty of the game ended when fans left Ohio Stadium.
"The filthy verbal abuse was in your face if you had Texas attire on. Full beer bottles were thrown at us with glass breaking all around us."
Another concerned Longhorn fan wrote:
"We did not see rudeness as just a few. We saw it as something more systemic, something extreme and somewhat frightening."
However, not all Texas fans had a negative experience last Saturday. Another Texas fan had a different take:
"I would just like to say that we had a great time in Columbus. We were treated with respect almost all the time."
Another fan wrote:
"My group had a great experience and found the Buckeye fans to be good people and good fans. From my experience, I don't see any need for an apology."
Still, others challenged Texas fans to turn the other cheek and roll out the red carpet when OSU plays Texas in Austin next year.