Micah Davis
Recall the age-old adage: Nice guys finish last. While true to a point, recent history would indicate that this saying is no longer quite accurate.Nowadays, you’re run-of-the-mill average Joe finds his or herself trailing the ever- increasing line of ruthless competitors. Modern-day competition matches the fervor of ancient gladiatorial battles stroke for stroke. Nice guys are obsolete. A willingness to succumb has been replaced by the desire to overwhelm. Unfortunately, this progressive school of thought has infiltrated the ancient world of sports. Major League Baseball was once America’s favorite pastime. It is now entangled in a web of lies so thick that the United States Congress finds it necessary to intercede. Heroes of the sport find themselves facing charges of perjury while being investigated by the FBI. Professional athletes, specifically Barry Bonds and Roger Clemens, have allegedly chosen to obtain and utilize illegal performance-enhancing drugs to stay a step ahead of their competition. Men who serve as role models to children around the world are only perpetuating the cycle of ruthlessness. If they’re willing to risk their bodies and their freedom, it opens the door for others to do the same.Fortunately for baseball, Congress has diverted some of its attention to the National Football League.Senior Senator Arlen Specter questioned top NFL officials about videotapes they destroyed that had reportedly proven an NFL team was cheating. The New England Patriots have been involved in the “Spygate” scandal since the beginning of the 2007-08 season.The team was accused of secretly videotaping private practices held by their competition. These tapes were in the possession of the NFL, but destroyed because some feared they would be leaked.Admittedly, there are more important issues to be concerned about. However, you have to question the message these supposed role models are broadcasting. Is the goal simply to win at any cost? And when all else fails, turn to whatever provides the best advantage and be sure to ignore the unappealing side effects?The truth is, as long as there is money to be made and fame to be had, there will be no immediate return to last place once again belonging to the nice guy.