More Cowbell Anyone?

[Mad Mike]

Question: Is it legal under all codes for spectators to use cowbells or other noise makers during a game?

What about team members using such a device from their bench during the game?

[ElkOil]

I believe in all codes anything you deem distracting can be addressed, especially if done by one of the teams.

[BrianC14]

18 minutes ago, Mad Mike said:

Question: Is it legal under all codes for spectators to use cowbells or other noise makers during a game?

What about team members using such a device from their bench during the game?

Spectators?   Don't touch it.

Team members?   Squelch it from the start.

[Rich Ives]

29 minutes ago, Mad Mike said:

Question: Is it legal under all codes for spectators to use cowbells or other noise makers during a game?

What about team members using such a device from their bench during the game?

This isn't tennis or golf. Noise is part of the activity.

Spectator usage is up to the venue management. It's not in the rules.  If it is significantly disrupting the game the rules may or may not (rule set dependent) allow you to suspend action until it is corrected. 

There aren't any written rules against players using them but I'd suggest strongly to the coach that it isn't something that is done by the players at a baseball game. Strongly enough so he gets the hint.

[Cav]

The term "fan" has many meanings.  As it is used to describe those "outside the fence" at sporting events, the English language has derived the term from the word "fanatic," itself a socio-psychotic, medical malady that is non-treatable without ardent site administrators and perhaps even armed guards.  As officials, we must let it go and allow Nature to take its course.

The dugouts, on the other hand, are well within our "sphere of influence."   

   

[Aging_Arbiter]