Wednesday, February 20, 2013

Media Day Gone Bad



 

During the two week media build up to Super Bowl XLVII, I happen to come across a web story about a 49er player named Chris Culliver. I had to ask myself who is this guy? I don’t even know what position he plays. It all started with an interview by Artie Lang, the former sidekick of the Howard Stern show.  Artie Lang quickly asked him the following question. “Would a gay player be welcomed on the team”   Culliver responded ... "I don't do the gay guys man. I don't do that." Artie followed up by asking, “do the 49ers have any homosexual players, Culliver responded: "No. Ain't got no gay people on the team. They gotta get up outta here if they do“ “Culliver then suggested homosexual athletes keep their sexuality private until 10 years after they retire” After the interview, the 49ers released an statement “there is no place for discrimination within our organization at any level”. Do you think this behaviour exists in the NFL?

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Source:

Hayne, M. (2013). 49ers' Chris Culliver uses Super Bowl media day to bash gays: Says 'they have no place in NFL' .

6 comments:

  1. Yeah... This was gaf I must admit. It is too bad. These young guys need a little bit of sensitivity training on how to phrase things. The media blows this stuff way out of proportion. Look, I completely respect the rights of those who live a "alternative" life style. It is not my place to pass judgement on anyone. I think everyone (straight, gay, transjendered, or whatever else)need to relax a little bit, and understand that people different from them have opinions too. People are getting offended way too easily. Give this kid a break. It all comes down to upbringing anyway, and what you were taught, about other races and/or social classes. Sorry to rant!

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  2. We all have our own opinions on this subject but need to communicate tactfully. In my opinion, organizations should not let their professionals talk in the public eye without proper training. Obviously Chris Culliver has no experience on taking in public. He does not understand in situation like that he not only represents himself but also his organization.

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  3. I love the fact that he said any gay athlete should wait until 10 years after they retire to annouce it. What an idiot!!! I'd like to know what his formula was for the 10 year plan.

    I agree with both comments. As part of training camp, all rookies (or any player) should be put through a "media/communications" training so that these issues can be addressed in a more professional and politically correct fashion. Unfortunately, the lack of social training made both the organization and himself look horrible. At the risk of sounding just like him, thats what happens when kids are drafted right out of high school (or college) with no social media experience or the education to speak intelligently on matters like this.

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  4. The problem is even when these players mess up another team is always there willing to give them another shot. Look at TO, Vick, etc. Jim

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  5. I think we can all agree that social media amplifies your voice, good or bad.

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    Replies
    1. I agree with Ronnie. Although I can't believe someone would actually say something so inappropriate.

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