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Explain Why Professional Athletes Should Not Be Role Models

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Explain Why Professional Athletes Should Not Be Role Models
Rachael Dudley Due: 7/19/2015 Professor: Ms. Storey
Topic: Issue 6
Side B: Professional athletes should not be expected to be role models. So, what really is considered a role model? According to the Webster dictionary, a role model is a person whose behavior, example, or success is or can be emulated by others, especially by younger people (Collins). Growing up one of my main role models was my mother. She was, as still is someone who is a hard worker, raised four kids while in school and working two jobs. She is someone who sacrificed so much just to give her kids everything and that is what I consider a role model in my eyes. In the 2009 Nike Air commercial, ex NBA star Charles Barkley quoted, “I am not a role, I don’t get paid to be a role model..” (White,1994), which sparked a huge controversy with many sports fans. He believed that just simply putting a ball through a hoop does not make him a role model, which I agree. Majority of these athletes today don’t even have a college degree and some can barely read so why should they be a role models? If an athlete is going to be a role model at least be able have a education so that you can teach younger kids that education and knowledge is
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All athletes are not perfect, they get paid to beat the opposing team, score points and make goals but not A person’s main role model should be there parents or either teachers, coaches and pastors are people who deserve the recognition of a role model. Role models are people that can come into your life spiritually, mentally and emotionally and can change your life for the better. Winning a ring or celebrating a game winner does not make a one simply a role model but someone you can admire and who can make you a better you is a role

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