we are a fanbase.  We are posting in a public forum that is read by recruits, rivals, players, family, etc.  The hostility and unfettered criticism reflects badly and does very little of a positive nature IMO.

I agree that everyone who posts here should be keenly aware of the fact that this is a public forum, and that the tone and temper of our messages are a reflection on our fanbase in the eyes of those who read the board -- including fellow Gator fans, current players and prospective recruits as well as their family members, and even rival fans.  For that reason, we should not only be conscious of the potential negative repercussions when we criticize coaches and players, but should be cautious about passing judgment on other posters whose opinions may differ. 

When someone accuses those who criticize the coaches of being the "worst fans," it begs the question of how we should define the concepts of "loyalty" and "support."  Is the "best" fan one who supports the coaches indefinitely, regardless of the results, in the belief that loyalty to the program includes the coaching staff as long as they remain in the job?  Or is the "best" fan one who concludes that the coaches are not moving the program in a positive direction, and out of fear of continuing decline calls for a change in leadership? 

I believe, in fact, that both can be the "best" fans or the "worst" fans, depending on how they go about expressing their opinions; because as I said last night, equally loyal, well-intentioned fans can have differing opinions about what is in the best interests of the program.  In the end, I think the line that defines "loyalty" and separates those who continue to support the coaches from those who do not comes down to a matter of degree. One fan's patience and tolerance can be greater than another's. One fan remains willing to attriibute the losses to misfortune, while another reaches the conclusion that the results are evidence of a failure in coaching.  

Let's try to recognize that all who care about the program, and are proud to be Gators, are fans who deserve our respect. And just because we have differing opinions does not give us the right to label one another as being better or worse fans, and to address one another without civility.  Remember that the players and recruits and family members who read this board also differ in their opinions about the best course of action for Florida football going forward.  As long as our differences do not override or obscure our shared commitment to doing what is best for UF, those who regularly post here, as well as those who visit, should understand and appreciate that we are, above all, dedicated Gator fans.