Michael Phelps likes to smoke...

[bazookajoe]

Originally Posted by ChicagoWhiteSox

Athletes are role models whether they want to be or not. Kids look up to players. Thats just the way it is. It doesnt matter if we think that kids shoudnt consider them role models. A kid playing little league baseball is going to have a MLB player he likes and follows. That player cant control whether or not he wants to be that kids role model. Cal Ripken Jr. addressed the issue of athletes and being role models at his Hall Of Fame Induction--"As years passed, it became clear to me that kids see all, not just some of your actions but all," Ripken said. "Whether we like or not, we big leaguers are role models. The only question is, will it be positive or will it be negative? Should we put players up on pedestals and require that they take responsibility? No. But we should encourage them to use their influence positively to help build up and develop the young people who follow the game. Sports can play a big role in teaching values and principles. Just think. Teamwork, leadership, work ethic and trust are all part of the game, and they are also all factors in what we make of our lives."
http://sportinsociety.blogspot.com/2...le-models.html

I think the point is that we cant force athletes to do the right thing, but we can encourage them to and let them know that they are role models. And i think most of them know that kids follow them. Even though they dont choose to be. Thats how it is. Thats just my opinion

I agree that to some degree kids choose their own role models, but we're not helpless. Since society reinforces an unhealthy regard for celebrity, we as parents have to infuse some sense of proportion to help our kids mange their expectations. My kids know that it's ok to be in awe of and even try to emulate the accomplishments of their favorite athletes, but also that they're only people, far from perfect, and their personal lives are just as prone to missteps as anyone's. I have more confidence in my ability to help my kids deal with reality than I do in an athlete's ability to avoid temptation. Maybe they can't help being role models, but we can temper the extent of it with our kids.