To Support or Not to Support…Why is that a Question?

Recently college athletes have used eyeblack or eyewear as one of the few means of expression. Ohio State starting quarterback Terrelle Pryor received much criticism for his support of Michael Vick when he had the words “Mika” and “Vick” on them. The former, the sister of Pryor, the latter a former quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons who served eighteen months for his role in dog fighting. Most players put the area or zip codes of their hometowns, or biblical passages on their eyewear, but for some reason “all hell has broken loose.” The adverse reactions to such innocent comments have created a media circus. Thus, I raise the question when does a college athlete have the space to be socially and/or politically conscious.


Pryor’s support of Vick should not be an issue. Yet, the backlash that has ensued is beyond belief. In a postgame interview after beating Navy, Pryor stated he dedicated part of his eyeblack knowing that Vick made a mistake by participating in dog fighting, but needs support, as no person is perfect. He stated, “Everyone kills people, murders people, steals from you, steals from me, whatever, I feel that people need to give him a chance. I always looked up to Mike Vick, and I always will. I still think he is one of the best quarterbacks…I love Mike Vick.”

What people must understand is that historically the quarterback position at the collegiate and professional levels have been dominated by Whites. Terrelle Pryor supporting Michael Vick should be seen as a gesture of solidarity.

It is evident he misspoke about “everyone” killing people and stealing. Yet many of his critics fail to realize this particular gaffe. Some of the public remarks from the "average Joe" on sports websites are along the line of: “At least we understand which OSU player will be in jail next. What a waste”; “Let's see. Who would I want to be the face of my team? Tebow - well spoken missionary who has good things to say and tries to help rehabilitate those in need? Or a thug like Terrell Prior [sic]. Tough call”; “Even Katzenmoyer didn't sound that stupid.”

So what can be implied by his critics, is that Terrelle Pryor is a thug, who is on his way to jail, and does not speak the "Queen's English" because he is not as intelligent as Buckeye linebacker Katzenmoyer, whom some people recognize as dull. All of this from saying he supports Michael Vick. Others have called him “idiot,” “brain dead,” and “moron.” Pryor acknowledges Michael Vick’s wrongdoing, while only admiring him as a quarterback, not a dog killer. A jesture done with good intentions to garner support for someone who has acknowledged their mistakes, has become an opportunity for others to crucify two African American males, one (Pryor) who is reportedly being denied the chance to defend his comments by the University.
Head Coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes, Jim Tressel, has downplayed the action urging for his freedom of speech. Hopefully Tressel continues to allow freedom of expression in his locker room. There is a space for it as it has dwindled in recent time. Most people are not vocal about issues for fear of the same backlash that Pryor is enduring. For a college athlete who is constantly in the public eye to verbally demonstrate his support for Michael Vick takes intestinal fortitude. To do so with so much on the line is even more commendable.

People do not have a problem with religion playing a part in sports as seen with prayer before and after games. Yet when a player has some aspect of a political or social consciousness, they question and make assumptions about his or her character. Often times people fail to realize that those in the sports realm are human and have feelings, beliefs, and their own shortcomings. Most male athletes who are married and committed infidelities against their wives have not been demonized in the same capacity as Pryor. Yet, radio shows, websites, newspapers, and television pundits across the country have severely criticized him. He should be applauded for actually saying something that was genuine. Too often athletes verbalize clichés and oft spoken phrases to appease the masses, especially for financial gain. What economical prosperity did this twenty year old have to gain? None, since the National Collegiate Athletic Association bans financial payment to student-athletes.

Thus institutions of higher learning often profit from the abilities of young males and females who participate in athletic competition. From ticket sales, paraphernalia, and even video games, others are able to gain financially except for those who are participants. Terrelle Pryor appeared to have used the little bit of freedom he has and made a statement that was genuine. He should not be condemned in the same manner as the person he is supporting. Therefore, we should keep in mind that freedom of speech and the press are rights, but we should use them with respect and responsibility.