Bench-clearing brawls, also known as MELEES, are physical altercations between players and coaches of two teams during a sporting event. These fights usually involve the entire team and can become quite chaotic. They often occur when one team feels that the other team has committed an unfair or unsportsmanlike act. Bench-clearing brawls are considered to be one of the most serious offenses in sports and can result in suspensions, fines, and even criminal charges.