Michael Phelps likes to smoke...

Originally Posted by Blueface

I completely disagree.
One thing is to idolize a sports figure for being that, a sports figure.
Another thing is to have that person be your "role model".

My son was a die hard fan of Michael Jordan but I assure you, Michael Jordan was not his role model.

That's the way it is can't be accepted as that is the way it is. It is up to parenting to teach children what the difference between idolizing someone for their accomplishments in their sport in contrast to considering them a "role model". That latter term should be clearly defined and I bet dollars to donuts, kids will know the difference if properly taught. Mine, who are 25 and 21 did.

The definition of a role model is a person whose behavior in a particular role is imitated by others. http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/role+model
MJ was and still is a role model for kids. So was Barkley. And so is Phelps. It is the parents responsibility to teach there kids right from wrong. The parents have a responsibility to do that. Phelps worked hard, put in his time and effort and it paid off. He won all of those gold medals. Kids are looking at him and saying to themselves "if i can put effort in and work hard, it will pay off". I look at that as being a role model. But with the drug issue, that is where its the parents responsibility to teach right from wrong. They can pull the plug and tell their kids not to watch him anymore and explain why. Kids look up to people. And i think star players have the most pressure. They have the most light on them because they are good at what they do. They have worked hard and put in effort and it is paying off. Kids see these players doing well and want to do the same. I definately see your side Blueface and agree that parents should ultimatly be the role models. Some Athletes can be good role models for hard work and dedication.