Sports Play a Pivotal Role Against Anti- Bullying

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/writers/michael_rosenberg/10/06/bullying/index.html

We always here about athletes contributing to charities and donating to foundations, but sometimes athletes take an active role on the problems that affect our every day lives. Bullying is one of those problems. I was a kid who was constantly bullied in elementary and in junior high, and to know that Eagles, DeSean Jackson, is fighting against bullying in school really touches a soft spot.

"athletes are uniquely suited to fight bullying. From elementary school to pick-up games at the Y, they command respect from their peers. They epitomize cool. And if they say bullying is not cool, that resonates."

                 

I couldn't agree more! Bullying is one of those things that kids feel is "cool" or the thing to do. But it hurts and leads to many unfortunate circumstances. Every time I hear of a suicide of a teenager because he/she was bullied or bullying that resulted in physical assault, I always think "Why doesn't anyone do anything?" "Why doesn't anyone say this is wrong?" The questions bottle my mind, but to see someone fighting against the cause bring some hope to this horrible problem. Athletes know their power to influence and being strong, competitive, and having support of fellow fans are attributes I feel kids can relate with. Its always inspiring to see how the words of an athlete can change the lives of so many.