Fame and the Game

I promise I will not talk about Brett Favre, I promise not talk about Brett Favre… but given the past week’s headlines it is hard to ignore or at least ponder the effects of fame on the game.  T.O. has got his show, Vick has got his criminal record and Chad Ocho Cinco has, well an absurd last name.

But what has this done for the sport?  Most certainly I enjoy watching the antics of professional athletes because, in reality, part of their job is to entertain.  I also worry that fame can detract not only the ability to play, but also from the integrity of the sport.

Arguments for this topic can go both ways.  I could sit here and list examples that demonstrate either side, but I think this NFL season will provide plenty of entertaining examples.  Will T.O.’s newly elevated fame (yes he was famous before, but he’s on VH1 now people) go to his head and distract him from what he needs to do in Buffalo?  Will Vick rise above his past and prove to be an asset to the Eagles as well as continue to play nice and share with McNabb?  Will Ocho Cinco find new ways for the league to fine him?  Only time will tell.

And because it is physically impossible not to mention Brett Favre right now (Sorry!), especially in a piece on fame and the game; as Brett Favre astutely put when asked about his legacy (a concept closely associated with fame) he responded, “When people start talking about my legacy - it’s mine.” Good point Favre, but you know we’re going to talking about it!

(Side note: I saw the picture posted above at my gym.  Slightly ridiculous, like the show, but not too hard on the eyes. Mama like.)