Unlike Former President Ronald Reagan's 'economic trickle-down' theory much of what happens at the professional sports' level 'does' find its way down to the amateur arena as acted-out in participant behavior. So much then for the National Football League 'relaxing' its celebration-rule. That's correct, the NFL's line is "We're bringing fun back to the game." If you believe that line of crap then you would believe that it's good for poor people when rich people get tax breaks.
A quick look at the resuscitation of the post-big-play celebration is simply an attempt placate the plethora of undisciplined players in the league, take the enforcement stress off game officials and sell tickets to people who have no clue regarding football intricacies but do understand and embrace obnoxious behavior especially after five beers.
The message we send to our youth today is most shameful. Apparently, success is not enough in and of itself, we must win AND humiliate others. Of course, the NFL stops short of the gladiators' fight in Roman times. Back then it was not enough to render the opponent defenseless and in a submissive prone position, the conquering gladiator looked to Caesar to see the 'thumbs up or thumbs-down' signal. Man, just imagine ticket sales if the NFL had that rule.
It's time for America to promote the 'celebration' of effort and dignity. That would be 'Class.'
Former great NFL running back Barry Sanders when asked why he didn't celebrate after scoring a touchdown said, "I want people to know I've been there before and plan to be there again."
(Touch)Walk Like a Man
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