SPORTS – THE BACK PAGE
Revamping the Pro-Football Hall of Fame Criteria
By Robert Young
Let me first congratulate Ealon Magazine on the success of its Inaugural issue. I am proud to be a part of an organization that supports and promotes small business, women and non-profit organizations and at the same time reaches across the gender lines with interesting articles for both mature men, women, and young adults.
Let’s talk sports!! Particularly the Pro-Football Hall of Fame. Being more than a devoted football fan, when the time rolls around for the selection of those Hall of Famers, I am right there celebrating with them from my living room, a nice beverage in hand and the big screen in front of me. However, my recent conversations with friends has been about the criteria for selection to this very prestigious and elite organization. The criteria states that
“Any fan may nominate any qualified person who has been connected with pro football in any capacity simply by writing to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The only restriction is that a player and coach must have last played or coached at least five seasons before he can be considered. For example, a candidate for the 2015 class must have concluded his career not later than the 2009 season.”
Wouldn’t it be great if the criteria for entry into your most coveted organization was to get enough votes to get in? You may be asking yourself why this is even an issue. Remember I am a sports commentator and as such here are my comments on the matter.
Perhaps there should be some rules about the integrity of those entering the great Hall. After all, like it or not they are role models to kids and some adults all over the world. Maybe the Hall should go as far as to say that any player that has been arrested for domestic violence or assault or any of the numerous crimes that have marred the reputation of the sport and the teams they played for can never enter the great Hall. Maybe their community service should be taken into consideration or even their respect for others in the game on and off the field. Sportsmanship encompasses more than just showing up and doing your job. Collateral damage should not be part of the game.
Well like it or not you got it. To comment on this commentary visit our Facebook page. See you on the back page!
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