by Stefano Fasulo

Created on: April 14, 2008   Last Updated: October 31, 2008

It is sad to say that the reason this is a topic of discussion (or debate) is because inside sports betting has been taking place for decades. A professional athlete, although a person like you and I, needs to be held to a different and higher standard. This standard needs to be explained as soon as a person can be identified as a high-rising athlete. With all the money (endorsement deals, contract signing bonus, etc.), media-exposure and popularity status (depending on performance results) an athlete already has a lot to think about.

Within the sports industry, an athlete should not be allowed to gamble/wager/bet on his or her respective sport. Period! This in my opinion, defies ethical standards even if an athlete says that they are not connected to the wager in any way. Do I believe an athlete can head to a casino to play the card tables or slots, absolutely. I do not believe an athlete should be given the right to gamble on their respective sport. If this is found to be the case, the athlete should be banned from that sport.

This country has certainly gone above and beyond when it comes to paying a professional athlete for their skills associated to their respective sport. The country and society has done so that those displaying competitive athletic ability from outside the country, have an opportunity to begin a life here in the states. Opportunities is the key word here, because how many more opportunities do we need to extend to these already fruitful players?

In my opinion, an athlete of even mediocre status has more opportunities than a mediocre blue-collar worker. The athlete that has to resort to gambling, for reasons of recreation or addiction (this should be addressed), needs to redirect their focus to more society driven/progressive activities.

In society, I believe athletes should be held to a higher standard simply because so many younger people (pre-teen, teen, etc.) look up to them The professional athletes should be setting great examples through civic engagement. By gambling on their own sport it may send a message of cheating, doubt on themselves and doubt about the one's they compete against (which may lead to animosity).

In closing, gambling on professional sports should get an athlete banned for life. If they value what they do, they will not do anything to jeopardize it.

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