Question on in-game chat

[Psyklone]

First post for me, been lurking for a while, but I thought I'd finally register. Thanks to the PSU admins for a great site!

Anyway....

I have one small concern about in-game chat. Can you chat with opposing empires? Hopefully not.
I'm just asking, because I'm sick of all the crap I have to hear while playing Tribes2. The sh**-talking is so annoying, and I'd rather not have to put up with the "you're gay" "learn how to play n00b" type comments (not that I get those too often mind you ).
I figure there won't be too much of that if you cannot actively slam your opponents, and why be nasty to your teammtes? (barring TKers of course)

I hope this wasn't asked too many times!