More often than not, Beaufort County sports fans are known to be courteous to not only their home coaches, players and referees, but also to those visiting for games. It’s helped make an enjoyable atmosphere and a fond memory for local athletes.

That’s not always the case, though. There are stories of bad apples taking away from the game. It happens everywhere — Beaufort County included. Thankfully, it doesn’t happen often. One of the last big incidents was during basketball season nearly a year ago when a fan just behind the home bench was openly criticizing the head coach.

However, there was a recent incident that thankfully didn’t escalate like the aforementioned basketball example. A former soccer player hanging out on the sidelines during the game was giving instructions to a player on the field in another language, telling him to disregard what the coach was telling him.

Few coaching staffs in the county have as much help as they’d like, and those who do coach are doing so for either little pay or on a volunteer basis. No coach in the area is in it for himself. It’s fueled by love for athletics and passion for working with Beaufort County’s children.

Simply put, there’s no room for disrespecting a coach. They take time from their families — some, like Washington soccer coach Jim Kozuch, who has a days-old child — to direct those who they also consider their children. Beaufort County is lucky to have a host of coaches who teach athletes not just their sport, but also valuable life lessons. One doesn’t have to go out of his way to thank each coach for his hours upon hours of work. Just show some respect.

Finally, anyone who feels he has something he can add to the game should contact the coach. There are few, if any, in the county who would turn away additional help.