Nothing stays the same for ever bro. Evolve with it or move on.
This board was founded as a place for mature, intelligent conversation specifically to be different from the crap posted on most internet boards. It wasn't set up to be a smack board. There are lots of those out there for those inclined. There was a theme on the board to "Post like a Champion".
Forums and subforums were set up so people could go the appropriate place section for the content that interested them rather than having to read through hundreds of posts on a running board. Some other boards lump all the posts together. This one didn't. Part of the brand.
The Recruiting Profiles were set up as a place you could get up to date info on that specific recruit. Discussions on depth charts, other schools recruiting practices, coaches, etc were sent to other appropriate forums. It was noted that these young men would represent Notre Dame on the field and to post responsibly and respectfully.
Critiquing a recruit or player's (in the football forum) size, speed, footwork, skills, mechanics, etc was reasonable. Trashing the kid wasn't. Over the years we've had a number of people that felt they were entitled to crap on recruits and ND players like they do pro athletes. It was their constitutional right.
Most usually modified there posting style to the culture of the board. The board wasn't downgrading to accomodate them. Those that refused to go along were advised that posting was a priviledge not a right. When they didn't get their way most modified their posting or left voluntary. Over the years perhaps a 100-150 who refused or were abusive had their priviledges terminated permanently.
After a change of ownership a few years ago this place became a sewer. It took a concerted effort by a few starting with GoshenGipper, R.I.P., to turn it back to the way it was.
This board thrives because it is different. It will evolve where the administrator and moderators allow it. It's an oligarchy not a democracy. If it goes back to the way it was, a few years ago, this board will wither once again. If that's the way it goes, I'll heed your directive phork and move on.
