What started out as an innocent soccer game between 2 Canadian high school teams, took an odd turn. MadNewsReports:
The first half was played like any other game even though the Muslim football team was trailing 3-1. But, everything changed at half-time.
The Muslim team informed the referee that they would not be playing the second half. The reason? Apparently, the Catholic school has two girls on the soccer team’s roster. When Carla Briscoe and another girl entered the game, the Islamic football team — which consists of only Muslim boys — no longer felt comfortable playing the game.
Being the good team players that they were, the disappointed girls opted to sit this one out so that the game could continue.
The Muslim coach called this “free mixing” and explained that it is something they do not do, even if it means having to forfeit the game. It’s a matter of respect.
MadWorldNews reports:
The school board has even decided to incorporate new rules that will cater to religious preferences in an effort to avoid similar mishaps and disagreements in the future. The controversial directive has sparked outrage. Many readers feel the Muslims are attempting to force their beliefs on others.
Telling people what your beliefs are is not “forcing” them on someone else. I think the Muslim team’s willingness to forfeit the game over their beliefs is commendable. They didn’t force their beliefs on anyone else, they simply stood up for their own beliefs and were willing to take a loss. I’m ok with that.
Would the situation have been any different in the U.S? And how do you think this should be handled? I’d like to hear what you think.
You can read the full story and see the video coverage here.
Photo credit Swestey
