BOZEMAN — Celebrating a kid's goal sounded a lot different on Saturday for many parents from across the state who were in Bozeman for a friendly soccer tournament.
Montana Surf implemented what they called a "Silent Saturday" at their games. In a letter sent to parents, the organization said the goal was to keep parents and coaches quieter during the games to reduce pressure on athletes.
The letter also went on to say that they hoped to remove referee and coach abuse. Parents were told they couldn’t talk or yell on the sidelines, and Montana Surf asked them to not cheer until the game was over.
“It’s not a disappointment on Montana Surf," said parent Tia Francis. "I would say it's a disappointment on the parents and those that can't control themselves, can't control ourselves as parents, that Montana Surf felt like they had to implement something that would protect the players, protect the refs."
Parents said they found ways to get creative. Many brought signs and cowbells and some even wore shirts that said, "Shhh, we're in Bozeman."
“There is a part of you that is frustrated because soccer is a loud sport and you want to cheer for your kids. You want to be there to support them,” said Francis.
