Three refs got into a fight during a kids' basketball game, and video footage of the incident has gone viral. The fight took place during a fourth grade boys' game — Cherry Creek vs. Legend Blue — at Gold Crown Field House in Lakewood, Colorado, TMZ reported. Gold Crown Foundation offers sports and educational programs for kids. As the host of the game at which the fight broke out, the organization issued an apology.
"We apologize to everyone that had to witness their unacceptable behavior — especially the kids," the foundation told TMZ.
The foundation also noted that “no children, coaches or parents were directly involved" and the refs have been suspended. The incident is being investigated by local police, according to TMZ.
A video of the fight was shared on X by former football player Tyler Polumbus. "Uhhh, real life at my sisters kids bball tourney…. Kids close your eyes," he wrote on X.
More from LittleThings: Reporter Calls Body Shamer Out On-Air After He Jokes About Her Looking Pregnant
The reason the fight between refs broke out is not known. Some people stepped in to try to stop the fight, and no one was seriously injured.
By the time police officers arrived, the people involved in the fight had already left. But because the camera system was recording what happened, the people involved were identified, leading to their indefinite suspension.
“This is an unfortunate reminder that we all need to keep the kids’ best interest in mind and that our adult behavior plays a pivotal role in youth sports," the organization said in a statement published by the New York Post.
“Let this also be a reminder to everyone that Gold Crown has zero tolerance for any adult behavior that puts the kids’ experience or safety at risk," the statement continued.
The fight happened right in front of the children. Footage of the incident shows one woman getting up from the scorekeeping counter to direct the kids away from the fight and prevent them from watching it.
"We look forward to getting our league back on track, and resume what will be a great season for the kids," the foundation said.
While there have been multiple reports of parents fighting with refs or each other at kids' games, it is less common to see a fight break out among the refs.
