Leave Politics at the Door: Let’s Keep Sports About the Game

Alright, sports fans, let’s talk about something that’s been brewing hotter than a Dallas summer — the intersection of politics and sports. Whether it’s the NFL, NBA, or the Olympics, the mingling of politics and sports has become as inevitable as a missed holding call in a crucial game. But here’s the kicker: it doesn’t have to be. And maybe, just maybe, it shouldn’t be.

Sports as the Great Unifier

Remember those glorious days when sports were just about the game? When the only controversies were about who the GOAT is in the NBA — MJ or LeBron — or who’s the best team in college football: Alabama, Georgia, the Sooners, Ohio State, or Michigan? When the biggest debates on social media were about blaming the refs instead of your team’s turnovers for getting gentleman swept in the playoffs? Sports have always been the great unifier, bringing people together across diverse backgrounds. Think about it: where else can you see a billionaire owner high-fiving a factory worker over a touchdown?

The Political Invasion

Lately, it seems like politics has invaded every aspect of our lives, and sports haven’t been spared. From anthem protests to post-game interviews, athletes and commentators are often using their platforms to push political agendas. Now, don’t get me wrong — everyone’s entitled to their opinion, and athletes are no different. But here’s the thing: when we tune in to watch a game, we’re looking for an escape, not a sermon.

Mainstream Media’s Role

The mainstream media has played a significant role in politicizing sports. Take Colin Kaepernick’s kneeling during the national anthem, for example. The narrative spun by the media was that he hated veterans, conveniently omitting that Kaepernick consulted with Nate Boyer, a retired Green Beret, who suggested he kneel as a sign of respect. Or more recently, the media stirring the pot between two phenomenal WNBA players, Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, turning it into a race war drama. It’s frustrating because it detracts from their incredible talents and achievements.

Personal Experience with Media Drama

I’ve felt the sting of this firsthand. Reporting on Caitlin Clark not making the Olympic team led to a barrage of attacks from political zealots, accusing me of bias. All because I look forward to both Clark and Reese playing for Team USA in the 2028 games. It’s disheartening when genuine sports commentary gets muddied by political agendas.

The Olympics — A Global Stage

Now, let’s talk Olympics. The grandest stage of them all, where the world’s best come together to compete for glory and national pride. It’s a beautiful thing to watch athletes who’ve trained their whole lives for this moment. But then, politics rears its ugly head, and suddenly, it’s less about who’s the fastest or strongest and more about which country is making a political statement. Remember when the Olympics were boycotted over political disagreements? It’s like missing the Super Bowl because of a spat over the halftime show.

The Impact on the Game

When politics enters the arena, it can have a profound impact on the game itself. Teams get divided, fans get alienated, and the pure joy of the sport gets tainted. Take the NFL, for instance. The anthem protests sparked nationwide debates and even affected viewership. Some fans boycotted games, while others felt their voices weren’t being heard. Instead of uniting us, the game became just another battleground for political discourse.

Respecting the Platform

Athletes have a unique platform, and it’s their right to use it. But there’s a time and place for everything. The field, the court, or the track should be a sanctuary from the chaos of the world. A place where the only battles are for championships, not political ideologies. Athletes can still advocate for change, but perhaps off the field where it doesn’t overshadow the sport itself.

What We Can Do

So, what’s the play here? It’s simple: let’s get back to the basics. Let’s enjoy the game for what it is — a beautiful, unpredictable, and thrilling spectacle. Let’s celebrate the athletes for their skills, dedication, and sportsmanship, not their political beliefs. And most importantly, let’s keep politics out of the arena and bring back the unity that sports have always provided.

It’s high time we draw the line between politics and sports. Let’s keep the focus on the game, where it belongs, and ensure that our love for sports remains untarnished. After all, in a world that’s increasingly divided, we need something to bring us together. And what better way than through the power of sports?

So, next time you’re watching a game, remember: it’s about the athletes, the competition, and the sheer love of the sport. Leave the politics at the door and let the games begin!