During the Pittsburgh Penguins versus Flordia Panthers hockey game I got a rude awakening.

I never thought silence while someone sings the national anthem would be something to talk about.

Everyone should know that you do not shout out while someone is singing it. Maybe it is because during Creighton games no one does that–or because I do not go to professional sporting event often to realize that this is an issue–that I believe this.

Yet, during fall break I found myself at another professional sporting event where people felt the need to yell out while someone sang the Star Spangled Banner. It was a few people at different times actually.

There were retired military personal on the ice who were being honored and current military personnel presenting the colors. Instead of respecting them, some chose to yell out “Go Penguins”.

It was followed by others who thought the silence was a prime time to show team support.

I get it that people go to sporting events like hockey or football to cheer on their team. Fans get really into it and cannot hold back. There is a whole match to do that and for just one song you need to keep it shut.

Be that crazy annoying fan for the rest of the time. I will sit there and accept your crazy antics during the event.

Do not use the excuse that you are at a game so fans are going to be crazy. You can be crazy all you want, but not when it is a time to respect the fallen. Do it the rest of the game. Enjoy yourself throughout the match and show how proud you are of your team during that time.

At the beginning, show your pride for the people holding the flag or at least be silent so others can respect it.

The national anthem is a time of pride during the game. Where it does not matter which team you are cheering on because that time you are all celebrating those who served our country. The colors are presented by military personnel and yet, right then one choses to yell out.

When does your team support mean more then your support for America?

I understand that many might not agree with what our country does or the military conflicts, but have some compassion for those who answered the call to serve.

Teams usually choose to honor the fallen or a retired military member during this time. Instead of thanking them for their time, you are insulting them. There is also the fact that there may be active members in the crowd surrounding you.

The desire to yell out is a quick way to insult othres without even talking to them. These men and women served to protect your freedom to do stupid stuff like that.

Next time you are at a game think about that. Take that urge to yell out during a quiet time and shove it until the song is over and the colors are gone. Show pride in your country and those who serve for a just a few minutes. After that you can go back to being the annoying fan that everyone dislikes.