The separation between sports and politics are
becoming so closely related that the distinguishing line is becoming fine. Parker
states, “In 1996 President Clinton signed the
Professional Boxing Safety Act, increasing regulation and federal oversight of
the sport.” History shows proof that politics are intertwined in sports and are
influencing the sport. Not just in boxing have politics been displayed. The
Government has also stepped in and set regulations in concern of brain damage
caused in football accidents. Congressional hearings in 2009, was when the NFL became
compared to the tobacco industries, this led to more stringent NFL rules
regarding how players are treated after showing concussion symptoms. Parker states
that Rep. Bill Pascrell and Sen. Robert Menendez who were not Still not okay
with the NFL injury accidents to players, these two New Jersey Democrats,
sponsored a bill that would put in federal safety guidelines for school-age
players. There bill passed the House but never came to a vote in the Senate but
the point is that the government has been so involved with sports and setting guidelines
rules and regulations that sports aren’t just sports they are a political
statement and are being used in politics.
Playing Sports and Politics by: Alex Parker
Jennifer
Porter
011105560T-Th 9:30-10:45
1 comment:
Jennifer, you are absolutely right. The love of the game and simply letting the players express their talent is no longer possible. It first starts by undressing them with what the sport associations tell them to wear. These athletes have to wear their uniforms properly to advertise their sponsors. Second, athletes have lost their freedom of speech. Any comment or opinion that they might have is non-existent. We have seen many examples where professional athletes express their political views and the media and government cover up. Or they are punished immediately by stripping their titles and forever scarring them with the ability to play the sport the love and are good at. Lastly, they are told how to play their game. With the regulations the government keeps adding, it changes the game on a whole different level. Yes, these acts by President Clinton or Senators are portrayed to look out seem to be looking out for athletes concerns, but in my opinion I think it is another scheme to get control anything that produces top revenue.
Michelle Barrera
Tues/Thurs
9:30am-10:45am
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