Pros in the Olympics

madzonie · ‎03-10-2010

This may have been discussed previously, but I just had to get something off my chest.

I remember when the Olympics used to be so strict about no "pro" athletes competing in what is supposed to be the ultimte in amatuer sports. But slowly through the years, the powers in charge decided paid athletes would bring more interest....and more money....to the show.

Mix in TV and lucrative endorsements and commercials, over-the-top Hollywood-style opening ceremonies and we now have an event that no longer seems to showcase those dedicated and talented amatuer atheletes around the world.

One vivid recollection of this transition was when the so-called "dream team" pro basketball team went to Barcelona in 1992. They were cocky and self-assured and acted like they couldn't be beaten. I remember being a bit embarassed for our country at their behavior.

Another vivd memory of mine was when the amateur U.S. ice hockey team won gold at Lake Placid in the 1980 Winter Olympics. They were the "Do you believe in miracles?" team that was cherished because they won when they were said to have no chance.

Now there are professional golfers, soccer & basketball players, tennis champs and on and on...

This kind of makes me miss the old days.

hopi · ‎03-09-2010

There is no such thing as an amateur athlete.

The athletes parents are either wealthy or the athlete is sponsered or the government helps.

SXMGirl · ‎07-07-2010

I absolutely agree with you. I would like the Olympics to be comprised solely of those who are not paid sports professionals. We do not need NFL and NBA people competing against non-professionals. The games are interesting without them, and I have much more respect for those non-pros who compete. They put their hearts and souls into their chosen games and I applaud them.

The next time that I hear salt and ice together, it better be in a margarita!

chickenbutt · ‎03-09-2010

ITA about professional athletes (those for whom performing their sports is how they make their living).

I wonder when and why this took a turn. It seems to be expanding. I remember first noticing it with basketball teams.

It was always so very specific for as long as I can remember that professional athletes were not qualified to compete in the Olympics.

sweetee2 · ‎06-21-2015

I agree it isn't fare. Professional get all kinds of endorsements and money to higher the best trainers, best facilities, best of everything. It's not fare.

deepwaterdotter · ‎03-09-2010

I hadn't thought about this, but you make a good point.

dooBdoo · ‎06-27-2010

Here's an interesting commentary from 2012, and a bit of an explanation and pretty good insight, about the change to allow professionals to compete:

"What changed the Olympics forever"

link:

http://www.cnn.com/2012/07/22/opinion/greene-olympics-amateurs/

(eta: if you don't like to trust links, just search for "What changed the Olympics forever")

Few things reveal your intellect and your generosity of spirit—the parallel powers of your heart and mind—better than how you give feedback.~Maria Popova

momtochloe · ‎11-03-2013

For me, it's all about winning and greed. It's tough because I like to see athletes supported within the framework of Olympic rules but I think we all know those rules have been obliterated along with the true spirit of the Olympic games . . .

kaydee50 · ‎02-07-2011

IMO all elilte athletes are professionals. College students get scholarship, i.e., paid to play for their school, sponsorships by private individuals, etc. etc. Money is always involved. No such thing as an "amateur" anymore.

hckynut · ‎03-10-2010

While we were sending amateurs to the many Olympics in the past, Russia was sending teams that did nothing but train for their sport 12 months every year. I am talking their Red Army Hockey Team, and there basketball teams.

Anyone remember when the USA won a basket ball game, but?? Then they didn't. The Refs has a conference and allowed the Russian Team a couple free throws, I think! I remember they gave that game to the team from Russia.

Sure, amateur stars were great athletes, but the odds were so stacked against them. No athlete puts in all that training, knowing if it part of a team sport, your chances of winning were very slim. But the USA Hockey Team of Amateurs beat the Red Army Hockey Team, in 1980, and won the Gold.

My take on the past and present Olympic Games.

hckynut(john)