It was Knute Rockne who claimed that “One man practicing sportsmanship is better than a hundred teaching it.” Rockne, a former football player who went on to become one of the greatest coaches in American history, passed away in 1931 at the age of 43. If he were here today to witness the raging spectacle that has become the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, I am certain that he would be appalled. This prestigious, world-class gathering of honorable athletes has been tainted by stories of corruption, violence and disrespect that have made the Olympic Games look more like a cross between the Cirque Du Soleil and a WWF special on pay-per-view.
The first major scandal of the 2008 games involved Chinese gymnasts. When suspicion started to brew, China promptly responded by providing authorities and news agencies with copies of the competitors passports. However, after further investigation, it was revealed by the New York Times on July 27th that prior internet records contradicted the information contained the Chinese passports. The newly discovered records, if true, would make at least two of the competitors as young as 14. The Olympic age limit to compete in the event is 16. While this may seem like a rather small infraction, it is the seemingly deliberate actions of the Olympics’ host nation that has turned the even into a “big deal.” If it were readily admitted that the girls were simply too young, it is likely that this story would have faded into the background rather quietly. Now, a host of interested parties have a chest full of contradictory material to play detective with. Articles and editorials will sprout up like weeds, denouncing the actions of China, showing support for the young girls, calling for action by the International Olympic Committee, and everything in-between. Thank you, China, for helping to turn a beautiful event into another act for the circus.
In a lesser known story, Angel Matos of Cuba intentionally kicked a referee in the face after being disqualified in a Taekwondo match. No joke. World Taekwondo Federation general secretary Yang Jin-suk was quoted as saying “This is an insult to the Olympic vision, an insult to the spirit of taekwondo and, in my opinion, an insult to mankind.” Matos and his coach were reported as being unapologetic and only continued to criticize the event’s referee. I happen to agree with Jin-suk. A competitor kicking a referee in the face after being disqualified? Matos and his coach, regardless of whatever injustice they may or may not be a party to, have become living embodiments of everything that is wrong in today’s overly competitive athletic culture. Go to hell.
In yet another epic display of reprehensible conduct, an angry Swedish wrestler threw his Olympic bronze medal on the ground after his quest for the gold was cut short. He raged on about how the decision was political and explained that he didn’t “care about this medal,” because he “wanted gold.” Prior to all of this, he was yelling at the judges and being restrained by his teammates. When he exited the arena, he said nothing, but still slammed an aluminum barricade with his fist. The wrestler’s coach sided with his enraged athlete, stating that it was “all politics.” Swedish fans booed the Olympic athlete as he carried on like an idiot. Again, regardless of how you have been wronged, you are under an obligation to act with the upmost dignity and respect. At the Olympics, the world is your audience and regardless of what medal you walk away with, you have won by virtue of being a representative your own very nation’s best. Shame on you for the embarrassment you have caused to the citizens of your country and for the ugly stain you have left on the 2008 Olympic Games.
When a global sporting event such as the Olympics is consistently tainted by violence, drug use, politics, and other unprofessional conduct, Rockne’s words reverberate with a special significance. One man practicing sportsmanship truly is better than a hundred teaching it. In the future, I sincerely hope that members our global community can come together and compete with honor, dignity and respect during the Olympic Games.
