In a previous blog post I commented on why the Nation still despises Michael Vick. Why people are still unwilling to forgive Vick for his actions. Today I want to take a different approach. Why do so many still support Vick?
Mike Vick leads ALL NFL players in fan votes for the Pro Bowl. That means that NFL fans support him to the point that they are willing to place him ahead of professional people and athletes like Peyton Manning, Tom Brady and so many others that live their lives in such a credible way that they avoid the temptations that money can bring. So many that give back in a positive way to their communities, not because a court ordered them to do so, but because they feel it is the right thing to do.
So why does Mike Vick get credit above all others? He is a convicted felon. Vick has done NOTHING credible or heart felt to atone for his past. Why Vick, above all others, to represent the NFL as the top vote receiver for the NFL Pro Bowl? Above all the other terrific athletes and human beings, Vick is going to be the NFL’s top boy.
We care too much about performance on the field that we forget that there is performance off the field that is more important. I love to watch a great athlete showcase their skills as much as anyone. However, I admire much more a person that equals those skills off the field. One that lives a positive life and gives back to society. Unfortunately, those character traits are not as celebrated as the highlights on the field are.
If the NFL was serious about their image as their marketing efforts attempt to portray; getting kids off the couch and getting them active, then their sincerity would certainly extend to the athletes that represent their product, right?
Perhaps if the NFL were to market Vick with their new initiative it would be like this: “Hey kids, lets Play 60! Get together with your friends, grab your pet and let’s burn some of our energy watching them fight to the death”!
The NFL’s effort and response with Mike Vick is such a gross contradiction that it makes me absolutely furious! The NFL attempts to promote the positive while ignoring and accepting the negative. MOST of us realize this and speak out against it. Those that do not realize it or ignore it vote for Mike Vick as a Pro Bowl starter. THAT IS HOW MIKE VICK REMAINS POPULAR!
Ignorance can often be self imposed, but can often be the result of terrific marketing. The NFL seems to be absolutely perfect in imposing both upon those that cannot see the big picture and respond appropriately.
Ultimately, this is on Vick. Mike was the one that chose to fight and abuse animals. Mike was the one that served time for doing so. The NFL did not participate or approve of his actions. However, by providing Vick with a new forum to showcase his talents the NFL is now a co-conspirator to his efforts and success. Guilt by association. It could and should have been different. Welcome to the VICKFL.
Thanks for your interest.
Sincerely,
Darren Usher
President and CEO, Aim To Beginn, LLC
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