The National Football League should be commended for introducing a "Fan Code of Conduct."

The league is responding to an increasing number of complaints from fans about their unpleasant experiences at games due to the misbehavior of other spectators.

The United States need only witness soccer hooliganism in Europe and elsewhere to realize the necessity for setting a reasonable code of conduct for spectators.

Hence, the crackdown on drunken, unruly or abusive behavior. Beginning this season, the NFL is barring "intoxication ... that results in irresponsible behavior." It is saying no to "behavior that is unruly, disruptive or illegal in nature."

Nor is the league countenancing "foul" or "abusive" language or the gestures that go with it. Harassment of the opposing team's spectators — verbal or physical — is out.

"Interference with the progress of the game" is barred, too. No more throwing objects onto the field.

Transgressors can be ejected from the stadium or lose their season tickets. Enforcement will be up to the league's 32 teams.

The policy is similar to the one imposed by the NBA in 2005, and it follows a personal-conduct policy for the league's 1,800 players, its coaches and team employees.

Defining the rules and enforcing them will be challenging. The league and teams will need to spell it out for the fans. Special training of stadium personnel will be needed.

The NFL had record attendance last year of 17.3 million — 67,755 a game, USA Today reports. Each of those paying spectators has the right to enjoy the game without interference from other fans. Good luck to the league in enforcing the new system.