VOL. XV, NO. 7
FEBRUARY 8, 1974
Bench Beat
By BROCK AKERS
Dedication is a virtue characteristic of politicians, teachers, and athletes. Devotion is a prerequisite for most of our nation's cherished institutions. Politicians dedicate themselves to the people they were chosen to represent. Likewise, teachers dedicate themselves to the fine instruction necessary to produce tomorrow's generation of Americans. (No parallel between the "dedicated" Watergate bunch and the Maine West faculty is intended.)
Athletics is no exception to the rule. A complete athlete must devote himself to the game, to his team, his coaches, and those for whom he is performing. That dedication is part of his responsibility as an athlete. But should limits be put on that responsibility? To many athletes, including some of our Warriors, that dedication is boundless.
Dedication is a virtue characteristic of politicians, teachers, and athletes. Devotion is a prerequisite for most of our nation's cherished institutions. Politicians dedicate themselves to the people they were chosen to represent. Likewise, teachers dedicate themselves to the fine instruction necessary to produce tomorrow's generation of Americans. (No parallel between the "dedicated" Watergate bunch and the Maine West faculty is intended.)
Athletics is no exception to the rule. A complete athlete must devote himself to the game, to his team, his coaches, and those for whom he is performing. That dedication is part of his responsibility as an athlete. But should limits be put on that responsibility? To many athletes, including some of our Warriors, that dedication is boundless.
One case in point is that of Dick Butkus, All‑Pro middlelinebacker for the infamous Chicago Bears. Mr. Butkus possesses what one doctor termed ". . . the worst knees I've ever seen." Yet, with those bad knees, it has been suggested that Butkus continue playing, even if it means spending the rest of his life crippled. Then, just maybe, the Bears could have their defensive bread and butter man playing for another couple of years. Meanwhile, in between doctor visits and executive conferences, Dick is furthering his promising career making commercials.
Injuries are part of the game; many Warriors compete in pain. The amount of self‑sacrificing devotion one should put out is merely a value judgment.
Let's just hope there is a call for an athlete selling stereos in a wheelchair.
Injuries are part of the game; many Warriors compete in pain. The amount of self‑sacrificing devotion one should put out is merely a value judgment.
Let's just hope there is a call for an athlete selling stereos in a wheelchair.
