What’s happening???
It seems like the world of sports is crumbling. As we hear about one allegation after another, whether it’s basketball, cycling, baseball or football, I can’t help but feel extremely sad. Even a referee, the very person who we are supposed to trust, and is so vital to an outcome of a game, is in hot water. Poor David Stern, give the man a break, already.
I remember when Tonya Harding attacked Nancy Kerrigan, noone could believe it. But events such as those rarely took place, so when it did happen, it was shocking. We were angry at Harding, and couldn’t believe the unsportmanlike conduct she was capable of. Fast forward to present day, and it seem like temper tantrums, fights and trash talking are no biggie. It’s happening everywhere, including a little league team near you, and it’s getting worse.
I think one of the worst memories I have is the fight between the Detroit Pistons, Indiana Pacers and the fans. That truly disturbed me, and I was so embarrassed for them. What are we supposed to tell kids who look UP to these athletes? That these things happen? That it's ok?
We love athletes because they’re so good at what they do. Sometimes we adore them so much, we easily forgive them for the not-so-good things they do, same goes for celebrities. These are not the types of role models I grew up with, no way. I grew up with Bird, Magic, Abdul-Jabbar, Dr. J -- these are the guys I looked up to. They played the sport beautifully, and more importantly, with dignity, class and style. They played the game fair and square. I wish we could go back to the good 'ole days..'81...'84...'86...(well, the good 'ole days for the Celts, that is)..
I can't turn back time, but I do believe that college sports remain to be the most exciting to me. Sure, there are always going to be scandals here and there, but regardless, college sports are much more fun to watch – more passion, more spirit, less drama, less allegations...here's to Fall football and madness in March..it's Awesome with a capital A...
Go Spartans!