Besides Michael Sam, the biggest NFL related story of the off-season has been the Richie Incognito-Jonathan Martin story. I have not read the Well's Report and will not weigh in on who was right or wrong in the situation. I was not there and I don't have nearly enough information. What I will say is this, there is no place for bullying in our society. Whether it's in the classroom, the locker room, or the workplace, it is a destructive force that can do a lifetime of damage.
As part of coaching staffs of more than one sport at Grinnell College I understand that we must operate under the guidelines of our department and our school. We must also operate within the rules and guidelines of the NCAA. One thing that has been made clear is that there is no room for hazing rituals or bullying within intercollegiate athletics. I don't believe Grinnell ever had severe hazing rituals before I was here, and I thought the environment was healthy while I played here. That being said, I have been very clear of my expectations for our team, and to my knowledge this type of behavior is not a problem.
When the Incognito-Martin story broke I was struck by some of the reactions in the media. The reactions were understandably varied, given the lack of information. The thing I have a hard time with is some major media outlets coming down so hard on hazing and bullying in high schools and colleges while regularly promoting it each NFL pre-season. I understand there are many differences, from the age and maturity of the participants, to the amount of money NFL players are paid, but I still believe we should be sending a consistent message about hazing and bullying.
In that light, I've come across an outstanding article by former NFL offensive lineman and current ESPN analyst, Mark Schlereth. I may be biased because I enjoyed watching him help clear the way for Terrel Davis and back to back Super Bowl wins for the Denver Broncos, but I believe Schlereth is on point with his take.
Please read and enjoy. I know the 2014 Pioneers will be reading this during our pre-season meetings this fall.
