Unprofessionalism In Professional Sports

In the past couple of years athletes have proven themselves to be “normal” people, with what some would call “normal” problems. These can be considered normal. However, given the fact that these athletes are represented in the public eye, should they carry themselves in a more appropriate manner? Most would say yes. Professional athletes have a responsibility to act professionally in order to keep good standing status in the public eye. Michael Vick, Tiger Woods, and Alex Rodriguez are three that have shown examples of unprofessionalism.

“The NFL suspended former Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick for two years after being convicted for dog fighting in 2007” (Branch, 2010). This type of behavior hindered his career tremendously.
Alex Rodriguez is currently in some hot water with the MLB commissioner’s office. How will this affect his view in the public eye? Should he have been more aware of his actions? Alex was recently caught in the headlines with cocaine and illegal poker tied to his name. When you dig into the story you see Alex was not betting on sports. He was just hosting a party and playing poker with his buddies like millions of us do. This is a prime example of how perception is reality and how it affects the reputation of the industry as well as the player. Alex is being made an example by the league. “The fact is A-Rod put the reputation of the league at risk, and so, if deemed guilty, he will face the consequences and a likely suspension” (Crew, 2011). At his party he never touched a line of cocaine himself but allowed others to. The bottom line is his actions were unprofessional and jeopardized the league’s name just like previous MLB stars have. He needs to realize he is setting an example for millions who watch him. Children, men, women, and families watch baseball every year. Athletes need to be aware of their actions and understand they have responsibilities to their industry, teammates, and
Michael Vick, Tiger Woods, and Alex Rodriguez are three individuals that have shown examples of unprofessionalism in multiple forms. We look up to athletes as role models for ourselves and our children. As fans, we fuel their careers and we have expectations of professionalism during the game as well as in their personal lives. Athletes are under microscopes daily and need to be cognizant of their behavior and decisions. Michael Vick, Tiger Woods, and Alex Rodriguez have showed what can happen to ones reputation in seconds due to poor decisions. When you look at your favorite athlete how do you view them? Do they meet your expectations as a