Muslim girl benched during a basketball game for wearing a headscarf

Smithsburg, MD - On the court, the Lady Leopards of Smithsburg Middle School suit up in their shorts, tank top, and pony tail. But one member, a 12-year-old Muslim girl, has added apparel, a headscarf.

At Saturday's game, the referee made the girl sit out, saying the hijab, as it is known to Muslims, could choke her. The garment is worn as a sign of modesty.
Coach Mark Kershner was forced to bench her, even though the headscarf was not a problem the first five games of the season.

"You could see that she was emotionally affected. Without embarrassing her, I could see it in her eyes," said Kershner.

The team is part of the Mid-Maryland Girls Basketball League. Coach Kershner says the player's parents had to release liability before she could play in the second half.

The president of the Frederick County Muslim Council says the incident calls for education.

"The people, they should have been sensitive to it. That's what I'm saying. They should have asked what it is, how it's worn, how it's done. That would have helped a lot," said Dr. Syed Haque.

Dr. Haque says the hijab poses no safety risk. The girl's parents did not return our phone calls, but her coach says she'll be on the court for Wednesday night's game.

"She's a go-getter. She'll be right back on the court tomorrow night,” Kershner said.

A spokeswoman for the Mid-Maryland Girls Basketball League did not return our calls, but there is talk that the by-laws will be amended to allow for headscarves if parents assume responsibility.