Why are athletes role models?

[K-Rock]

Because they play a game? Because of the money?

I am not sure what the answer is. They don't say what police officers, firemen, or teachers represent to the kids. Only professional athletes. If a police officer doesn't read someone their rights in an arrest, the media does not write stories condemning them for their negative influence on children. When a CEO gets arrested for insider trading we don't hear about how he has caused harm to children. The media reports on athletes that get arrested for drunk driving like its a big story, but not when a local business owner gets arrested for the same charge.

It all seems backwards to me. Kids should be looking up to those who make a positive impact in the community and those who impact society.

Athletes are like actors. We accept eccentric behavior from Hollywood. Drugs, divorce, and affairs all common place and we don't condemn them for their influence on kids.

Athletes are no different. They are entertainment. They are not community leaders or the movers and shakers in our society.

[HUM398]

Because they play a game? Because of the money?

I am not sure what the answer is. They don't say what police officers, firemen, or teachers represent to the kids. Only professional athletes. If a police officer doesn't read someone their rights in an arrest, the media does not write stories condemning them for their negative influence on children. When a CEO gets arrested for insider trading we don't hear about how he has caused harm to children. The media reports on athletes that get arrested for drunk driving like its a big story, but not when a local business owner gets arrested for the same charge.

It all seems backwards to me. Kids should be looking up to those who make a positive impact in the community and those who impact society.

Athletes are like actors. We accept eccentric behavior from Hollywood. Drugs, divorce, and affairs all common place and we don't condemn them for their influence on kids.

Athletes are no different. They are entertainment. They are not community leaders or the movers and shakers in our society.

Some are Community leaders and Shakers in our society... Great Role Models.

Reggie White to name one.

Jerry Rice

Barry Sanders

etc. Etc.

[J-Rock Mom]

I think they are role models for kids that want to play that sport that the athlete plays, not for everyone.

I know my youngest son loves both baseball & football and he is great at both. His favorite players are Derek Jeter and Peyton Manning. He has alot of others but these 2 are the ones he most would like to be and looks up to.

[gtowndrumma]

pacman jones is my role model... i mean just look at how he has battled through all of the controversy to still have the right to do whatever he wants :D



in all seriousness, i think the double standard is set as far as athletes v. actors because everyone in hollywood is a nut job. its a proven fact. the majority of athletes were average people for a great part of their life. look at the nfl and how many of them have come that far from a substandard lifestyle. their supposed to inspire the kids that one day no matter where you start out, you can make it in the big leagues if you work hard.

[BlackandRed05]

You guys need to get real.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WRYeqGZRo9Q

[slorch]

i will say as a kid i admired guys like Earl Campbell and Roger Staubach, and because of their quiet, determination on the field. I wanted to be like them on the field. At the same time I always wanted to hit like guys like Ronnie lott and Bill Bates when I got on the field. I think these 4 guys were outstanding both on and off the field, but I always looked to people closer to me in the family for true role models. Grandparents, brothers, and close friends have always been bigger influences on me than athletes or entertainers.

[Crank_It]

walter payton comes to mind.

quiet intimidation on the field. community leader and philanthropist off the field.

[RPM]

You guys need to get real.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WRYeqGZRo9Q


I agree...100%