Hayley+Opinion+Writing

A professional sports person or athlete is somebody that gets paid for playing sports. These people are displayed all over the media, whether it’s for the actual sport, product endorsing, or even being in the spotlight for inappropriate behaviour. Some children look up to these people for guidance and admiration, but I believe that sports stars are bad role models.
 * __ Professional sports stars should not be considered as role models __**

To begin with, role models are people that set a good example in whatever they do, and sports stars that only shine on the sports field should not fit under this category, especially the athletes that behave inappropriately off the sports field. Some sporting names like cricketer Jesse Ryder and All Black Jimmy Cowan come to mind, who have both been under the spotlight for binge drinking. These people should not be setting an example for our younger generation.

Furthermore, there is the issue with performance enhancing drugs such as steroids. Some sports stars resort to these methods to up their chances at winning in their sport. These sorts of drugs are illegal and definitely not something athletes with thousands of adoring fans should be using. It is reported that at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, around 20 athletes were tested positive for using performance enhancing drugs. Children look up to these people, and what kind of example are they setting for the younger generation if they are using illegal drugs?

But on the other hand, if an athlete or sports star has worked hard towards their sporting achievements, then perhaps they should be considered as a role model for other aspiring athletes and/or the younger generation. If they have shown perseverance and determination then that is certainly worthy of admiration.

Moreover, there are always stories about sports stars that have overcome obstacles to get where they are today, such as Jonah Lomu with his kidney illness. These stories of inspiration should make some athletes be looked up to for role modelling, as children with illnesses or other obstacles to overcome may need to look up to them for hope and motivation.

But in conclusion, I think that sports stars make bad role models, because off the sporting field some resort to binge drinking or clubbing, resulting in inappropriate behaviour, and some athletes turn to performance enhancing drugs which is definitely a bad example for children to follow. Although some athletes do make good role models, with stories of perseverance and inspiration, my personal opinion is that sports stars or athletes should not be considered as role models. Children should look elsewhere for a role model.


 * __Reflection:__**

I think I did pretty well with this argument, because it was researched and I had some strong points. I could have elaborated more on some points but apart from that I believe I did pretty good job.