Role of Sports in Popular Culture Paper: Athletes as Role Models
Sports for quite some time have become an intriguing part of history as well as people’s heritage. This paper will illustrate how athletes can serve as role models in a tremendous way. Great athletes are viewed all over the place such as magazine articles, television commercials, and shows. There is a greater need for the more positive role models who engage in fair play and sportsmanship. Their influence on our youth is paramount because children do mock or emulate their favorite stars. Children tend to want to have all of the riches, glamorous life, and fame that are associated. Athletes generally provide hope for even some of the younger up and coming future athletes all across the world.
History
Ever since the beginning of time in the sports world, dating back to 800 B. C., the Olympians were required to uphold the homage of Zeus. At this time in history, games were considered a religious ritual. In early Roman days, there were chariot races and gladiator games including athletes that represented different states. The need for competition between competitors was enthused all over the world. Adults as well as children idealized the monumental courage and determination of great athletes. Although history tells that role models were considered not only heroes in their own right, but also major contributors. People who emulate and adore sports personalities question whether or not if it is worth the debate. Over the past 25 years, Olympians have been accused of and were later found guilty of using performance enhancing drugs. There is a considerable amount of prominent sports figures in baseball, football, and other sports who will continue to get backlash as a result of their misbehavior. In addition, athletes have made many contributions are hard-working, motivating, people who understand that achievement is not everything.

Agreeing argument
“Though some may argue that it's not a sports figure's job to double as a role model and reach beyond the traditional sidelines, many athletes have long embraced the importance of being a mentor to younger children, especially to those hoping to follow in their footsteps” (Hoffman, 2009, p. 46). Sports stars are seen as idols because they can accomplish things that most people cannot do. They get disbursed millions of dollars for their endeavors, their identity, and faces spotted on everything from shoes to ad posters. These champions demonstrate attributes, such as commitment, determination, and the aptitude to keep their calmness when under stress. Some superstars educate children about believing in self, and working hard, and being passionate in anything they do. Though only the bad behaviors are broadcasted in the news, many prestigious players volunteer, raise money for charities, and act as counselors to the students who assist children to stay off drugs. Best sportsperson are continually striving to get better. They are focused to accomplish their goals. Decent behaviors like these can make optimistic transformations in people’s lives.
Disagreeing argument
Children and adults alike may look up to, try to emulate, and even worship athletes who perform at the top of their game. Normally, role models are a good thing, especially for children. However, athletes can also make poor choices that are broadcast across the world. When fans see their heroes participating in conspicuous consumption, getting arrested, taking drugs, beating women, and having a general disregard for the law, it can have an extremely negative effect. Not only do these athletes tarnish the image of the sport they play, but they also run the risk of corrupting our youth. “Kids are like sponges, they absorb everything both positive and negative. Kids may see baseball players and other professional athletes taking steroids, and they are succeeding, why shouldn’t I dope up and get the same results?” (George, 2007). It is this kind of thinking that impressionable young minds may take part in. Athletes have a responsibility to remain aware of their influence on children across the globe. These people are getting paid millions of dollars to play a game, and they should do so with honor and integrity.
Recommendations
Sports fans and players have been known to take the game too seriously with some situations ending in violence. Children learn winning is better than losing and that competition is healthy. Participation in sports is more than winning or losing, it is how the game is played that counts. Sports participants need to remember it is only a game and violence and vulgar language solve nothing. According to Explore Minnesota (2012), “The Saints suggest that you BYOF (bring your own fun) to Midway Stadium for outdoor baseball. But rest assured that plenty of fun will be provided” (para. 1).
The Saints games set a good example of how sports can be played and viewed in a friendly atmosphere. In between innings the fans are treated to events including sumo wresting and tire races for the children. They have a pig that brings the baseballs out to the umpire and a nun who provides massages to the fans. Ticket prices are reasonable, so a family can enjoy a nice outing together without spending much money. The style of entertainment is not the point; the point is sports should be enjoyed in a friendly atmosphere (Explore Minnesota, 2012).
Conclusion
Sports, of any type, have been an important part of history all over the world. The athletes that are on these teams, etc. are important to so many fans. Regardless of whether or not a person thinks that athletes should be role models are not does not matter. There will always be a person who aspires to be and looks up to an athlete no matter what sport it entails or what anyone else’s opinion he or she is. Athletes are hard-working, have diligence, and give life to a person’s dreams just by winning one game or match.
References
Explore Minnesota. (2012). St. Paul Saints Pitch Fun to Baseball Fans. Retrieved from http://www.exploreminnesota.com/travel-ideas/sports/st-paul-saints-pitch-fun-to- baseball-fans/index.aspx
George, E. (2007). Sport in Society: Are athletes role models? Retrieved on March 10, 2012 from http://sportinsociety.blogspot.com/2007/08/are-athletes-role-models.html.
Hoffman, M. K. (2009, February). Star athletes embrace role model status In TV ads. Jet, 115(3), 46-47. Retrieved from http://ehis.ebscohost.com/eds/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?sid=1a7fd8ea- 327f-4de6-a103-3012df92134c%40sessionmgr10&vid=8&hid=3