Player misconduct

From the tailgate lot, we see college athletes as members of our sports teams that will lead us to victories, we see college athletes as heroes that we want our picture with, we see college athletes as who we wanted to be or want to be dependent on our age. College athletes are held to such high esteem that when they make mistakes it shocks our system. The important factor in all this should be our response to the misconduct.

When we comment to other fans, write on message boards or discuss in local establishments, we often discuss the impact to the team. We also look to pass blame, by asking where was the coaching staff or teammates? We also fail to understand how an athlete can make such poor decisions. We argue the merits of certain legalization efforts or laws themselves. We hardly ever discuss the impact on the individual and their life.

Here is my take:

Athletes are human. They make bad choices. They number of athletes who run afoul of the law or university rules are such a small percentage. What athletes do on their own time is their own choice. I do believe that athletic department culture does help limit bad decisions, but to think any university will be 100% free from issues is not realistic. Coaches and athletic departments should act in a manner that is best for student athletes and not what will soothe the fan base. Sometimes this means a 2nd chance, sometimes it may mean immediate dismissal. What we from the tailgate lot must do is trust the people in charge because we do not know all of the facts of every issue. This does not dismiss those in charge of any accountability. Some universities look away from these issues and overprotect their athletes. However, until there is a pattern of poor decisions in holding student athletes accountable, we must withhold judgement on the penalties.

A much more important take is forgiveness. We immediately get angry at players putting themselves in jeopardy and possibly negatively impacting results. These incidents happen to young men and women. They must be held accountable by the university and the law, however, then they must be thought of (prayed for) that these tough lessons be taken to heart and that their lives can possibly move forward. A human life is important even in its failures. Winning and losing is important, but when young people get in trouble, their futures are even more important.

In light of recent news at my alma mater, Indiana University, I am saddened, crushed and devastated. I worry about my football Hoosiers, but I do hope that the young man has his day in court, can take responsibility for his actions, and can rehabilitate his life.

That's my take from the tailgate lot!