Conclusion

I chose to do a blog for a few reasons. First off, I wanted to be able to pick out topics that I thought were interesting. A lot of times, teachers assign projects about topics that they find interesting, and that they know a lot about, while many times students (especially the ones that do not know to much about sports) (ME) are not able to really but their heart into the assignment. Another reason I wanted to do a blog, was because I had never created a blog. I though it would be a fun project, and something I could look back at after the class was over.

One thing that I really enjoyed about the blogging process what being able to read other students posts, as well as their posts on my blogs. It was very interesting to see what some of the students that did not have much to say during class, thought about certain topics, and about what others said during the class period. If I were to change anything about the blogging assignment, I would have set more due dates for blogs. I would sometimes forget that I had to do the blogs until they were mentioned in class, so I would have to rush to finish them before they were due.

Throughout this process, I learned a lot about others opinions. I learned that it was very important that somethings you say or write can be taken in the wrong way, so you should always make sure you are being politically correct, and not saying something others will take offense to.

I think that it is a great idea to give students the options to make a blog, journal, or write a paper, because each student is different may be able to do their best work in their own way. I think that if I would make any more set requirements, I would make only one post due per week, and keep it about a paragraph or so long. Also I think that people should have to post a picture, or a video (just because I think it makes it more interesting) Also, I think that we should sign up to a group to blog with in the beginning of the semester, because then people would feel more motivated to actually keep up with their blogs and post on others.

I think that in the future I will create a new blog, maybe not able sports, but about current topics. After I graduate, I want to become a wedding coordinator. I think that a blog would be a great way to show current clients, and potential clients different weddings I have created, and showcase some of my favorite vendors.

Presentation Reflection

For the past few classes, each member of our class did a group presentation, or individual presentation about their blogs, journals, and papers they did for class. After seeing all of the presentations, I noticed that the majority of the groups focused on the same topics.

My group chose to focus our presentation on the Female Stereo-type. Ashley and I talked about how we did not feel the exploitation of the female athlete was right, and that it is very sad that most of the attention female athletics gets, is when the athletes are sexy. The boys in our group focused on the fact that the females should be able to be sexy, and how they worked very hard for their bodies, so it's only right that they show them off.

Other topics that there presented on included racism, (which we all know has been a sticky topic to discuss throughout this semester). It seems as though the class is spit on the Indian Wells incident, but I think it's safe to say, everyone agrees that what fans were saying was wrong and uncalled for.

Also, a lot of groups presented on the topic of females playing on males teams, and males playing on female teams. I noticed that many people didn't think that it was okay for females to play on male teams, because men would not play to their full potential, because they were scared of injuring a female, or they wouldn't want to embarrass the girl. On the other hand, a lot of people though that it was okay for males to play on female teams, because it would help them develop their skills, and help the girls play better. If I'm not mistaken.. this looks like a double standard to me..

I know that when asked why people chose to do blogs and journals instead of writing a paper, many people said that they didn't want to do all of that research, but honestly, I believe that many people felt that doing a blog allowed them to be creative, write about whatever they wanted, and actually have fun looking at articles!


(Hey... Why not?!!?)

Adapting to Disabled Athletes

Before taking this course, other then the Para Olympics, I never really heard of athletes that still competed even though they had a disability. I think that it is outstanding, and very brave of these athletes to stick with their sport, even though it may be hard for them.

One of the most influential stories I have read about, was the Olympic hopefull Skier with only one leg. The athlete competed against other athletes for years and years, and completely dominated in the sport. Unfortunately, they did not make it to the actual Olympics, but qualified to compete in the Para Olympics.



I feel that what makes this story so inspirational is that the athlete was a competitive skier before their unfortunate incident which caused their disability, but with the help and adaption of different ski equipment, such as poles with "feet" on the end of them, the athlete was able to continue competing in their beloved sport. Being a Skier myself, I feel that what this athlete is doing is very brave.

In class we talked about whether male or female's with disabilities would be more likely to compete in a sport. I personally believe that a male would be more likely to actually go out and compete, because society are more excepting to males not fitting their ideal role, while women are meant to fit perfectly into a female stereo-type.

Often, women are coddled and protected by any negative feedback, so seeing a women with a disability playing a sport would be like deliberately putting them into the firing range of negative press.

Personally, I believe that if an athlete's heart is in the sport, no matter what sex they are, they should go out and compete. Like I've said on past blogs, the competition does not have to be to win, but to do something you love and to try your best.

Video Game Violence

As I sit here writing this blog, I'm watching my boyfriend play Basket Ball on his XBOX Live. Just a few minutes ago, he started yelling at the video game (or the player he's talking to over his headset) for making an unnecessary intentional foul so that he couldn't score on a fast break. When he got the ball back, he returned the favor, and caused an unnecessary intentional foul on the other player. I asked him why he would do that and he simply replied "Because he deserved it"

This may be a harmless example about the effects sports video games have on children or in my case, my boyfriend (same thing), but as video games become more and more intense, so does the influence they have on the players. Many of these video games are teaching players that making illegal fouls are okay, and that it is just part of the game, while in fact many of these rules have been made to protect players from getting hurt.

In the Video game Madden 2010, the violence portrayed in the game, makes many of the illegal fouls (such as helmet to helmet hits) more acceptable for many of the young players. If any of these fouls were committed in real life, brutal injuries could occur. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9SoDPFhT-u8

Not only are video games full of physical violence, they are also full of verbal threat. In an old professional game my cousins used to play, I can remember the characters saying that they were going to kill the other one, and that they wanted to destroy them. As times change, and the video games become more real life, players are going to start acting out these actions in real life.

My boyfriend may not agree that screaming and causing unnecessary intentional fouls are out of line, but I'm sure if someone did it to him while playing the game in "real life" he would be very upset.

Parental Violence in Sports

During my senior year of High School, I was at my high schools last soccer game of the season. With a tied score of one to one and only minutes left in the game, an obviously poor call on one of my schools players was called. Of course many of the fans were upset, but one of the seniors parents took the situation a bit too far. The parent stormed the field and grabbed a hold of the referee who made the call. After screaming at him for a few minutes and walked over to the side line where the opposite team was sitting and started yelling at the coach and players. Because of this mans uncontrollable actions, the game was called, which made it impossible for the team to continue onto the finals.

Fortunately, no one was injured during this incident, but the son of the inappropriate father was humiliated, and the team got a lot of negative feedback from the press and opposing teams.

Now a days, children are encouraged to not only play sports, but to dominate in sports. I have read many articles about parents storming the playing field and yelling at the refs and coaches, while their children watch. What is this teaching our children? That if they do not like a call, they can scream and yell at refs to get their way?!

In the following video, 8 year old Hockey Players in Ontario Canada start fighting, as both parents and coaches join in.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mhZ_PC0CLec

Personally, I believe that this situation is out of control. I think parents have the right to get "involved" in the game, but they need to remember that they are influencing their kids actions by their own.

It is important that the youth is passionate about their sport, but when it comes to fighting and embarrassing themselves over a game, people need to remember that these are only children playing.. and it's only a game!

The Jordan Effect

It's almost impossible to name an Athlete who has had more of an effect on the World then Michael Jordan. For years and years Michael has had his name on hundreds of products, such as sports drinks, Nike Shoes, to his own brand. Because of his great influence in Sports, many people have argued that Jordan should have then it upon himself to become more involved with politics, and help certain parties get into office. Throughout the years Michael has remained neutral to governmental parties, claiming the Democrats and Republicans both buy shoes.



Personally, I think that what Michael did was very smart and very professional. So many athletes and celebrities use their fame to push certain ideas on to others, and just because they are idolized, people think that what they are doing is right, and will follow them.

For example, swimmer Amanda Beard posing naked for PETA. Yes, I think that Amanda may feel very strongly about this issue, but sometimes adds can be over the top and extreme.




Michael Jordan has worked extremely hard to become the elite athlete that he is today. Millions of people around the world look up to Michael, and appreciate many of the smart decisions he has made throughout the year. I think that many athletes and celebrities should act on Micheal's past actions, and remember that people look up to them, and will unknowingly follow many of their actions, just because they are celebrities. Keep it neutral!!

Tim Tebow

I touched on this topic earlier in the semester, but after the overwhelming negative reaction to the emotions of Tim Tebow after losing the SEC Championship game to Alabama, I though it was important that I added a few more notes.

We defined "Sport" earlier in the year, and we can all agree that there must be set rule, no set outcome, points, and a few other attributes, but I personally believe that sport must have heart. When a heat is not playing well, or an athlete is not on the top of their game, we hear the commentators go on and on about how "their heart just was not in the game" but when Tim Tebow showed that his heart was absolutely into his game, he was criticized and made fun of.

Personally, I don't understand what people wanted him to do after he lost an extremely big game.. I guess if he was more "masculine" he would have picked up a folding chair from the side lines, and smashed it over Nick Saban's head, or started calling out and fighting with the other team. Instead, he showed his true emotions, and proved he was human.

Crazy Soccer Girls!!

Earlier in the semester we watched the video of the girls soccer team from New Mexico. In the video, one of the worst portraits of sportsmanship was portrayed by on of the female athletes, as she tripped, and pulled the hair of girls from the opposite teams.

Yes. What this athlete did was horrible, and she deserved to be red carded from the game, if not kicked off of the team, but what I believe many may not see through this story, is that the only national coverage the New Mexico team had about their soccer program (which happened to be very good) is when this athlete acted out.

Anyone who follows sports can't argue that 98% of all TV coverage, especially on ESPN or other major networks only show, or dominantly show male sports. Just the other day I was flipping through the channels, just as a news reporter was saying that a female athlete had announced her engagement. They only type of personal coverage female athletes have are usually about personal issues, or when they do something un-lady-like, (The New Mexico Soccer Girl).

I feel guilty saying this, but I'm the member of the "If girls are playing, I'm probably going to change channel" club. I currently work for the athletic department, and I purposely schedule myself to not work any female sports. Why? I think many would agree that male sports are quicker, more entertaining, and easier to watch.

Even though many people feel the way I do, I still believe that females should have a bit more TV coverage, and not only when they do something wrong, or tie the knot.

Tiger

Unless you live in a hole, you have heard about the recent Tiger Woods incident in the past few weeks. Papers, Gossip Columns, ESPN, and even The View have talked about Tigers "Bad Decisions" and have voiced their opinions about what should happen next. So many allegations have been made about Tiger, that it is hard to know what is true. Does he have a Love Child with one of his multiple lovers? Is his wife leaving him? Did she really hit him over the head with a gold club? Who knows if we ever will find out these answers, but on the turn around.. why should big media sources even care?!

Like Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods is major money maker for products such as Nike, Gatorade, and even his won brand. For millions of American's he is living the ideal life, and just like any red blooded American, we are all waiting for him to "slip" up. We love to root for these top dog athletes and will stand behind them all day when they are on top of their game, but Like A Rod, after his "mishaps" with his EX wife, or even allegations that My husband (David Beckham) cheated on his "wife" Posh, everyone was ready to throw them under the bridge, and jump on them.




I personally believe that we all need to remember that these super star athletes are just that.. "athletes". Even if we want to believe they have super powers, they are only human, and will make mistakes just like we all do every day. But unfortunately for them, their life's are flashed all over every major network.

Even though I want to defend Tiger for his actions, I still have to say that he needs to remember he is a role model to millions, if not billions of people around the world. Yes, the fans will come back, most of his endorsers will stand by him, but a lot of people will not forget his mistakes.

Gay Athletes

I think that it is very sad to know that in the year 2009, Gay athletes are still not able to come out and be accepted in their sports. In the videos we watched in class, the retired football player, that had come out of the closet, post retirement, believed that Gay's in Athletics have come a long way in the past years. I have to disagree with that, because you do not see more then a handful of openly gay athletes, while it is impossible to believe out of the hundreds of male athletes, only a few a gay.

In high school, an athlete on the males baseball team came out our Senior year. The entire school was out raged, and the boy actually dropped off of the team. A friend of mine, (Who was also friends with the gay athlete) said that the other players destroyed his locker and all of the contents, also, they made posters saying horrible things about him, so the kid would want to quit the team. My friend asked the other played why they did not want the kid on the team any more, even though they had been playing baseball together for four years, the other players replied that they were not able to trust the kid anymore.

In a professional setting, I believe that the only way an athlete would the the "guts" to come out as openly gay, would be if they were absolutely outstanding at their sport. Even if they were good at their sport, any mess up or anything that wasn't outstanding would result in being a "side effect" of them being gay, and not respected by their team.

Race/Racism

It seems as though when the topic of race and racism is brought up, everyone turns their head, backs down, and is too scared to give their opinion. I believe that racism is just that, an opinion. In many situation, people take what they think to be racism the wrong way, when in fact, a person may just being saying something taken out of context. In class, many opinions were given, but some may have been seen as raciest comments, because they did not sound exactly like the other opinions in the class.


On the issue of Indian Wells, I believe that what the Williams Sister experienced was not direct racism. I believe that fans were very upset that they did not see the match that they were looking forward to the day before, and they were taking their frustration out on the sisters. Just because a few of the fans said racist remarks (Which YES, that would be considered Racism) the sisters took the criticism and negativity as only racism.

I do not think that it is a good idea that they sisters decided to boycott Indian Wells, because I think that it just plays into the idea that the fans are getting to them, and that they are in return being racist towards the fans that attend the Indian Wells matches, because they do not with to play for them.

I hope that one day, Race/Racism will not be made into such a big deal as some people make it into today, but to eliminate it, we have to understand everyone has a different opinion and different point of view.

Gender of Audience Building

1. If a Study on "Gender of Audience Building was done today, our group believes that a lot of the results would be the same. Most of the coverage and promotion for women's sports is done through sex appeal and what some people may consider exploitation. For Example - Many female athletes do advertisements for Bras, or sporting gear while wearing minimal clothing. Also in many advertisements where women athletes are involved, it is hard to tell what the product being advertised actually is. Another time that women athletics actually are put in the spot light, is when women do things that are "unlady-like", and cause a major upset- For example- Soccer Player from New Mexico State


2. Based on the study, audiences can be constructed to reflect growth of girls and women in sport by showing and promoting more of the games and players. Having a better build up to the games, having better coverage of the athletes, and focusing more on the women's teams.

Sarah Miller
Ashley Regan
Adam Solomon
Carl Fowler
Chris Hoepner

Un-Sportsman Like Conduct

It is easy to say that now-a-day's athletes are not only expected to act like "Athletes" but as role models for fans of all ages. Little basket ball fans beg their parents for LeBron James and Michael Jordan Jerseys, with hopes of being able to play ball as well as the stars could.

Even though athletes know that they are always in the Lime Light, many times they can lose their tempers (like any normal person) and do something very "Un-Sportsman like."

Pretty much all of the athletes in the world have had their little slip ups, but why do some athletes get more attention for their faults then others. Not only do some athletes have a finger pointed at them because of their super celebrity, but now their Sex is coming into consideration when deciding what and what not is forgivable. No doubt this is a double standard.

Take the recent Serena episode. Smashing her racket and going off on the little line judge was uncalled for, and now she is getting horrible press saying that she was over the top with her attitude. If a man would have acted exactly the same way, I believe that he would have still received a bit of bad press, but it would have been more acceptable, for the simple reason that he was a male.

In life, the media, and movies and TV, Strong and Powerful men are the ones who settle their problems with verbal arguments and fighting. The only women who are ever seen fighting are the ones that are CIA agents, or from the wrong side of the tracks. Because of the standard portrayal of the sexes, it is not a shock that the world freaks out when the see a women acting un-lady-like (Whatever that really means)

In class, we talked about what people would think about an Athlete that cried after he won or loss a game. I personally believe that if an athlete left his heart out on the field and then lost a game, there is no reason for him to be looked down at if he showed a bit of emotion, and the same if he won. No one should be ashamed of showing their emotions. Emotion dosen't mean weak.. It means you're human!

P.S. - <3

What is a sport?!

To some.. Sport is a competition.. To others it's a life styles.. To many it's a religion.. but to most (including myself) it's a great reason to get together with your friends!

After Thursday's class last week, I thought long and hard about the different "sports" that we were to list in order of "Which we most consider a sport" to "The least we consider a sport." Even though "Cup Stacking" may not be on the same level of intensity as the most popular sports- Football, Soccer, Tennis, etc, I would consider "Cup Stacking" a "sport"! Yes. It may sound crazy, but let's break it down. A sport needs to have 1. set rules (cup stacking- Check!) 2. a level of competition (Cup stacking- Check!). Okay, the competition level may not be as high as football, but don't tell the "Cup Stacking" athletes that! I think that today, many people only consider sports, "sports" if they know about them, and if they have a large following. I wanted to hear what an outsiders opinion was about "sport", so I asked one of the the farthest outsiders I could find.. My best friend Steve.. Who is from Australia..

I didn't give Steve a set list of sports to rank, but I did ask him to give me his top 5 and bottom five "sports". Here is his list:

top five are:
1. Soccer (naturally)
2. Cricket
3. Ice Hockey
4. Golf
5. Ironman or Tennis

bottom five are:
1. Darts
2. Poker
3. Curling
4. Skeleton Luge
5. Nascar or Baseball

I have to admit that Steve hit my last point on the head by saying that his bottom 5 sports includes Baseball (America's past time). Since Australia doesn't have a baseball team, the first time he ever saw a game was when he was visiting last summer. After watching, he went on and on about how it was a horrible "game"! On the other hand, hardly anyone from the US would rank Cricket in their top 5 sports!

So maybe "Cup Stacking" is not the most intense of "Sports" but you can't deny that those athletes put their heart and soul into the competition..

What would I consider the greatest sport?? Anything David Beckham is playing of course..

Introductions

Hello. My Name is Sarah Miller. I am a Senior at Bowling Green State University, majoring in Tourism and Event Planning. Also I will be graduating in DECEMBER! I am creating this Blog for my Sports Management Sports and Gender Class. In my blog I will reflect on different topics that were discussed in class, as well as my personal opinions, and anything else I may come up with.


I have been active in a few different sports over the years. I played soccer and volleyball in both middle school and early high school. Also, I was on the ski team from sixth to senior year of high school.

After the first day of class and confessing my love for David Beckham, I went home and asked both of my roommates who their favorite athletes were.. without hesitation, Catherine (an avid NHL fan) named Sydney Crosby, while Emily a MLB fanatic named named Omar Vizquel. After asking why they liked these two athletes, Catherine started to explain that Crosby was an outstanding athlete and he.. but after she noticed both Emily and my looks of humor, she admitted that she just thought he was highly attractive. Emily on the other hand, skipped all of the nonsense, and admitted that she has had a crush on Omar Vizquel since she went to an Indians game back in the day.


After the roommates and I discussed our athlete crushes, I then asked them who their favorite female athlete was.. It took a much longer time from both of them to decide that they liked Jennie Finch (myself included). We all agreed that one of the main reasons we liked her, was because she is very cute, and has a great personality.


One of the biggest issues that stands out in my mind when talking about Sports and Gender, is how male athletes are portrayed VS. female athletes. I am as guilty as anyone to stay that I love watching David Beckham play soccer, but I would rather see him in one of his Versace adds.. After thinking about Beckham, it made me think about female athletes, and many of them gain their popularity. Yes, they are all very talented, but to help bring themselves (as well as their sport) some recognition many females (Anna Kournikova, Danica Patrick, and even the Williams sisters) will model and or become a spokesperson.

It's funny to see that many males will say that David Beckham is a "sell out" and just a pretty boy now that he does modeling, but at the same time, they are not complaining that Anna Kournikova is a swim suite model..

Thanks