But for those who have been too busy following Charlie Sheen and his “tiger blood” antics or the events leading up to the Royal Wedding on Friday (like I have been religiously doing), here’s a recap:

Tressel with Pryor. Image source: http://nittanywhiteout.com

Five OSU football players, including stud quarterback Terrelle Pryor, were caught in violationof NCAA regulations for selling jerseys, championship rings and other football memorabilia to a tattoo parlor owner. Long story short, Tressel knew of the violations, kept hush, hush about it and allowed those ineligible players to play.

Now, we can argue back and forth if Tressel should stay or go, but let’s leave that up to the so-called experts that can magically predict the future like Miss Cleo.

No matter how this all goes down, there are three entities that will take the biggest hit: Tressel a.k.a. “The Vest,” the Buckeyes football program and The Ohio State University.

The Vest

Class. The one word most individuals would use to describe Tressel—well, until now. Even though I am not a diehard Buckeyes fan, I have always had the utmost respect for Coach Tressel and his program.

Every characteristic about Tressel, from his famous sweater vest to the way he eloquently addresses the media after a game no matter the outcome, exemplifies class and the father-like figure he has become known for.

Coach Jim Tressel of the Ohio State Buckeyes. Image source: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

With all this garbage thrown into the mix, is Tressel’s squeaky-clean image now tarnished? The way in which loyal OSU fans look at Tressel will forever change from this incident. For years, Tressel has brought OSU great success. Now, he has brought a pretty dark cloud over Columbus, and who wants their parade rained on?

Tressel’s image may be a whole different story for football fans that are engrained into the sport (coaches, former players of the game, etc.). No doubt will these individuals acknowledge Tressel’s mistake, but in my eyes, they will be much more forgiving because of Tressel’s longevity of success and impact on the game.

The Program

As mentioned before, the Buckeyes football programis known as a powerhouse team. But since the cat has been let out of the bag, all eyes are on the OSU football program and its players.

Every time a problem surfaces, reporters and media personnel will bring up this incident. It’s like a bad senior picture—it’ll never go away.

If Tressel stays, the focus won’t be on the accomplishments happening on the field, but the actions taking place behind locker room doors. If Tressel goes, it will mark the beginning of a new era.

Coach Jim Tressel leads the team onto the field. Image source: http://www.edaveryreport.com/

The last thing it wants is to be known as “one of those programs,” which could harm its reputation and affect possible recruits and OSU’s football future.

THE Ohio State University

(Sorry, I get a chuckle from “The” still.)

Anyways, the decision of Tressel’s destinywill reflect on everyone who falls under the OSU umbrella—the athletic department, Ohio State president Gordon Gee and the football program.

In the end, it comes down to what Ohio State wants to be known for? Integrity? Honor? Pride? These are the questions that have to be taken into account when it comes to building and maintaining a respectable reputation.

At this point, we’ll all just have to wait in anticipation to see if “The Vest” will be placed into the closest or be reinstated as fall fad once again. Personally, I’d hate to see “The Vest” go out of style.

"Play like a champion today" locker room sign. Image source: http://revkevgcc.wordpress.com

Even though those situations are great topics, I’ve decided to focus on something very near and dear to my heart–the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.

The past three weeks have been heart wrenching for all Notre Dame fans; however, even after several disappointing seasons, Notre Dame still remains a high-profile football program. But why? How does a team that has not won the National Championship since 1988 still win over the hearts of millions?

The answer is simple– tradition, Rudy and loyalty.

Tradition: the Four Horsemen lead the way

I cannot express how important tradition is to any institution or program. Trust me, I am the daughter of two coaches! Tradition is the back bone and driving force to the future, and Notre Dame symbolizes that very concept.

The Four Horsemen: The founding fathers of Fighting Irish football. Image source: http://horsemen.sultaninfo.com

Don’t believe me? Look up the Four Horsemen and the coaching greats like Knute Rockne, Frank Leahy or my favorite, Lou Holtz. The game of football itself cannot be discussed without mentioning those names.

What about Touchdown Jesus? The Notre Dame Victory March song? The Golden Dome? Does “Play like a champion today” ring a bell?

If you still aren’t buying into my reasoning, ask yourself this: What is the first thing that pops into your mind when you think of Notre Dame? (And I pray it’s not the Justin Bieber of the Fighting Irish, Brady Quinn!)

That is what branding is all about. Much of the time, Notre Dame is referenced as a vintage, old-school football program that exudes tradition, which dates back to the late 1800s.

Tradition and history go hand in hand. It is about thriving on those characteristics that make a particular program one-of-a-kind, and Notre Dame has accomplished that very task.

Rudy: every little boys’ (or in my case, one little girl’s) dream

Rudy has become an iconic sports movie that illustrates the journey to achieve one’s dream. It is a film that is inspiring on all levels. It doesn’t matter if you are 99 or 6, Rudy speaks to all generations.

Rudy has become one of the most iconic football films of all time. Image source: http://www.givememyremote.com

The film and its story embodies the definition of achieving the impossible.  Notre Dame has been labeled as the place where dreams come true, where tradition lives and where legends begin their stories. Not only did Rudy boost Notre Dame’s image, it showcased its rich tradition and its devotion to excellence.

Last year I gave my younger brother a framed Rudy poster for Christmas. It read: “When people say dreams don’t come true, tell them about Rudy.”

Everyone wants to achieve their dreams. That’s the ultimate goal. When kids are exposed to this movie at a young age, they are hooked on the Notre Dame tradition and the notion of dreaming.

Individuals associate Rudy with their dreams, which in the end, associates Notre Dame with Rudy. It’s a domino effect.

Loyalty: “Cheer, cheer for Old Notre Dame…”

It’s as obvious as Joan River’s Botox that Notre Dame hasn’t exactly had the “luck of the Irish” this season. That’s life and that’s football.

Of course there will be bumps in the road, but the trip is much smoother when fans are along for the ride. I don’t think people realize how vital fans are to athletic programs. Loyal fans keep the faith alive and fuel the tradition. Heck, Notre Dame has its own publication, Blue and Gold, where die-hard fans can get the latest information about the program. My papa is a long-time subscriber!

It must be the girl in me, but it tickles my heart to see old men get emotional about Notre Dame football because it means more than a game to them. To those individuals, Notre Dame football represents a brotherhood, memories, youth and the passion to dream.

I am a firm believer that the image of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish will withhold the tests of time because it represents the Mecca of dreams, “while her loyal sons are marching onward to victory!”

Image source: http://www.abc.net.au

Truth be told, this one person who has worn the Wine and Gold for six years is practically the center of the universe right now.

I mean the guy had over 86,000 followers on Twitter within a half an hour of creating his account. That’s pretty remarkable.

But let’s get to the point—LeBron’s world may be turned upside down for all the wrong reasons if he decides to pack his bags.

If the undeclared “King” of Akron decides to leave the buckeye state, he will potentially lose a lot.

This is what the world would be like IF LeBron James would leave Cleveland—picture it now… July 9, 2010…

Good bye hometown-boy image

Well, it’s time for the fans of Cleveland to swallow the big one and own up to the fact that No. 23 has left the building for good.  Cavs fans across the world are feeling a mix of emotions right now: anger, resentment, sadness and betrayal.

LeBron has given up on us, on the city of Cleveland, and it’s time for us to give up on him. Staying true to his roots my butt! Forget all those times he told the world how much Akron means to him and how important it was to bring a championship to Cleveland.

Image source: http://www.lebronjamesdunks.net

People did not just love him for his talent, but for his story—a kid from Akron with a big dream who brought worldwide spotlight to his hometown. How can people put their faith behind someone who doesn’t even believe in the city and the fans who WITNESSED the prince become a king?

Some MVP! Champions make their own magic. Why would he go looking for that spark when he has the ignition right here in Cleveland?

Funny how one can go from champ to chump overnight!

King James becomes “Hype” James

We’ve all witnessed (no pun intended) the hype and the craze of LeBron James over the past weeks, causing pandemonium from basketball courts to coffee shops.

Of course he had to build his ONE HOUR announcement up like it was the darn Oscars (without the red carpet). We shouldn’t be surprised though; that’s just how LBJ rolls now.

Everything he does becomes a production. Twitter, his ESPN announcement and his overall demeanor has been tacky and tasteless.

With the events and hype LeBron has caused, LeBron could have done all of us a favor and quite the league all together and star in his own Vegas show. He’s definitely had enough practice.

From shooting star to fallen star—LBJ: NBA’s most valuable villain

Meet James’ three new sidekicks: Power, fame and fortune.

Image source: http://images.townnews.com/news-herald.com

All LeBron is concerned about is making the big bucks, breaking records and controlling those around him—his way or the highway.

He has turned to the dark side. It’s a shame that for someone who shined so bright is burning out so quickly.

LeBron had the world at his fingertips and had everything to gain with the Cavs. He stood out because we believed he was the change Cleveland was waiting for.

Boy, did he fool us. It only took six years for LeBron to become another money-hungry, power-seeking professional athlete.

Time will tell what LeBron will accomplish. He may break records, he may become a three-time MVP and he even may win that championship once and for all.

He may get all those things in the long run, but sadly enough, that’s not what people will remember him for.  They’ll remember him for July 8, 2010—the day his game changed forever.

But for now, let’s snap back to reality where the world is good and LeBron is still a Cavalier.

All we have left to do is wake up, drink our coffee, go to work and wait until 9 p.m. to watch “The Decision” as to where the King will sit on his throne for the 2010-2011 NBA season.

Maybe it’s just me, but something’s not clicking upstairs for Vince Young these days.  It might be the summer heat, heck, Young may even have Bieber-Fever, but when are athletes going to realize what are considered BAD actions?

A strip club, trash talking and an “epic” brawl.  Original.

Image source: www.bgawebsites.org

Let’s take a second people and look at this situation from the outside, in.

Here is a young quarterback who previously battled emotional issues about two years ago and worked through that tough time in his life. After Young rolled over that speed bump, he swore he was committed to change, given a second chance.

FYI, Mr. Young: this probably wasn’t the best way to go about this so-called change.  What in the heck were you thinking being in a strip club, let alone being involved in a fight?

Yes, we don’t know what was actually said throughout the night that led Young to violence, but, as I say over and over: don’t trap yourself in those types of situations.

It happened with Ben and it happened with Tiger. Learn rather than repeat!

Do the crime, pay the time

Even though Young’s actions reflected those of a Jersey Shore scuffle, I give credit to Titan’s head coach Jeff Fisher in regards to his response to the fight.

“I would like to think he has learned a lesson,” Fisher said. “He had no business making the decision that he made, and obviously he has to deal with the consequences.”

This is a guy who knows his player screwed up and is not sugar-coating the reality of the situation.

Fisher’s words might not have been the most encouraging or sympathetic, but at least he was open and honest. I was so please not to hear “no comment” or read “Fisher could not be reached for comment” when I read about Young’s situation.  

Image source: nittanywhiteout.com

I am eager to see how Young’s consequences unfold within the coming days, but I have a hunch Commissioner Goodell isn’t going to let this one slide.

Goodell stood firm with the Roethlisberger decision, as he stands with any issues that fall under the NFL Player’s Conduct Policy—Young’s situation is no different.

Sure, you can apologize, but apologies are starting to run thin these days.

This is why there are rules set in place. The NFL wants to create a positive image but something else needs to be done to enforce these guidelines.

Social environments

I’m not saying the NFL needs to hire babysitters, because these are grown men we’re talking about, but these guys need surround themselves with people who are going to bring the best out in them. The NFL can only do so much. It is during a moment of decision that a person’s character is defined. Unfortunately, we don’t get to read about all the good decisions—we read about the bad ones as headline news. Maybe if players took their reputations and images a little more seriously, those negative headlines would slowly disappear. Wishful thinking, I know!   

There is nothing more I want than to see Young succeed and excel in the NFL just like he did in his glory days at Texas. But, in order for that to happen, Young has to avoid the roadblocks and learn how to swerve and choose the right, wise path.

It’s time for these young men to realize this is not just a game they’re playing; it’s a life they’re making.

Image source: http://images2.fanpop.com. Michael Jordan's "The Shot."

It didn’t matter if you’re a sports fan or not, the topic of the Cavs and the “Cleveland Curse” swept the airways of radio stations, ESPN specials and, of course, articles and blogs throughout the web.

I even received a Facebook invitation to join the “I don’t think I’ll ever see Cleveland win a title in my life” group. Seriously?

Now, I can spend this post criticizing the Cavs, LeBron and the future of the franchise, but, then again, I don’t feel the need to bring anymore negativity to Cleveland sports.

Cleveland has had its share of disappointments. Sure, we would all love to have the Kardiac Kids and Omar Vizquel back, but I’m pretty sure no one has a time machine to relive the past—well, unless you’re Doc from Back to the Future.

Because of Cleveland’s notorious letdowns, which have become labeled as the “curse,” we have become the butt of jokes—victims of our own criticism.

But, I have a newsflash for all you so-called Cleveland fans: You’ll be back next season. Why, you should ask.

I’ll let you in on three little secrets that keep Cleveland sports on the radar and keep fans coming back for more even if we aren’t producing championships (yet). Cleveland sports possess tradition, faith and the underdog status.

Tradition

Sports thrive on tradition. Some cities revolve and are molded by a  particular sports team. Just take a look at the Yankees. 

For any individual who has attended a Cleveland sports game, you know how much this city, this state, values its tradition.

Image source: http://i.cdn.turner.com. The Dawg Pound.

From tailgating at Browns’ games to Slider to LeBron’s powder, Cleveland sports fans know these simple traditions define Cleveland sports.

And don’t forget, Cleveland has accomplished a lot: it’s the home of the greats like Paul Brown, “Shoeless” Joe Jackson and, of course, LeBron James.

These past and modern-day heroes have brought the national spotlight to Cleveland and the traditions it possesses.

For Pete’s sake, the Dawg Pound is one of the most notorious fan-based groups in sporting history. It’s rowdy, it’s tough, it’s football.

Plus, we have the infamous WITNESS sign that lurks over the city of Cleveland—always a popular stop for tourists to take a picture with King James.

Image source: http://frmarkdwhite.files.wordpress.com. Legendary Coach Paul Brown of the Cleveland Browns.

Bottom line: people want to become a part of that tradition and feel just a piece of greatness. After all, isn’t that what sports are about?

Faith

The more I think about it, the more Cleveland sports sound like Cher’s “If I could turn back time.”

Coulda, woulda, shoulda, sort of deal.

Trust me, I’m sure ever Cleveland sports fan would love to erase the memories of “The Shot” Michael Jordan made during the 1989 Playoffs, sending the Bulls onto the next round and “The Fumble” the Browns made in the 1988 AFC Championship Game.

Yes, those are some pretty devastating times in Cleveland sporting history, but there’s innocence, believe it or not, behind the Cleveland franchises.

Somewhere deep down inside of all Cleveland fans faith exists.

When a Cleveland franchise has a bad year, the joke is “There’s always next year.”

On the flipside, when a franchise exceeds its expectations a fire ignites the city, creating an inferno that God himself would have trouble putting out.  

In any given situation, fans stick by the wayside in hopes their faith in the Indians, Browns or the Cavs will turn their dreams into a reality. Lose or win, Cleveland always believes!

Image source: http://cleveland.indians.mlb.com. The Cleveland Indians' Slider mascot.

This leads me to my last point: the underdog status.

The underdog status

As mentioned a thousand times before, the “curse” haunts each franchise of this great city.

Cleveland has experienced plenty disappointments, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing.

The city of Cleveland has undisputedly earned the title of the underdog. Season after season, analysts, critics and fans lay it on thick for Cleveland sports, hardly ever giving them hope of reaching the light at the end of the tunnel.

People can talk all they want, but it’s about what happens come game time.

Often, individuals forget all the great accomplishments Cleveland has achieved over the years. How about Otto Graham leading the Browns to 10-consectuive league championship game appearances, winning 7 out of those 10 games?

Image source: http://lh4.ggpht.com. LeBron's WITNESS billboard.

Or what about the Indians’ great run during the 1997 World Series? Sure, it was disappointing finish, but what a heck of a ride.

People love the underdog story; just take a look at this year’s 2010 March Madness. I’m not sure if it’s the adversity teams have to face to reach the top or the inspiration it instills in individuals, but people always root for the underdog. David and Goliath ring a bell?

Whatever it may be, there’s no way to go but up for Cleveland sports. There’s no doubt in my mind we’ll sit at the top again.

These simple reasons are why Cleveland’s franchises are still a prevalent force in the sporting world.

There’s a common notion: medicine can only take us so far, then comes God. Cleveland franchises can only take us so far, then comes its fans. The fans are the ones who build Cleveland. The fans are the ones who believe in Cleveland. The fans are the ones who create and continue each cherished tradition. Players may come and go, but it’s the fans who will forever remain the same and keep each franchise alive.

Let’s just say the announcement of Ben Roethlisberger’s suspension swept the nation faster than Lady Gaga’s latest hit.

Ben Roethlisberger will be sitting out six games during the 2010 NFL season due to violation of the NFL Personal Condict Policy. Image source: http://jerseysandgear.com

See ya, Tiger! You’re old news.

Goodell announced that Roethlisberger will sit out six games next season in violation of the NFL’s Personal Conduct Policy.

In part, the rule states: “It is not enough simply to avoid being found guilty of a crime. Instead, as an employee of the NFL or a member club, you are held to a higher standard and expected to conduct yourself in a way that is responsible, promotes the values upon which the League is based, and is lawful.”

Quite honestly, I believe Big Ben’s punishment is fair. He violated the policy but was not convicted.

Ben has no one to blame but himself, because this is the second time Roethlisberger has been accused of sexual assault within the past year.

His lack of judgment is pure evidence he is not the brightest star in the sky—that’s for sure!

Whether you agree with the punishment or not, we have to look at the overall impact of the involved parties.

The National Football League and Goodell: Protect the business and preserve its image

As stated in the policy, players are to represent the NFL with class and respectable values.  

Goodell may appear like the bad guy in this scenario but someone has to lay down the law. That’s what leaders do.

Like the Bleacher Report stated: “Discipline isn’t an option in the NFL. It’s a must-have.”

"In your six years in the NFL, you have first thrilled and now disappointed a great many people. I urge you to take full advantage of this opportunity to get your life and career back on track." NFL commissioner Roger Goodell. Image source: http://multimedia.heraldinteractive.com

Remember people, Big Ben put himself on the sidelines for six games—Goodell didn’t.

It breaks my heart to see that the game I love is slowly becoming a mockery in the sports world with player after player being accused, convicted or in violation of rules or crimes.

NFL players, who are given a gift, need to respect the game and start being responsible.

I believe Goodell sent out a message to all current and future players through Roethlisberger’s punishment.

All in all, Goodell is trying to preserving the image of the NFL, and ultimately, trying to make these men better people.

The Pittsburgh Steelers: Bon Voyage, Ben!

I really don’t need to say much here, other than the fact that the people of Pittsburgh are not happy campers.

The Steelers, who are part of a respected, rich football tradition, don’t want anyone who is going to rain on their parade. That is the reason why rumors are circulating about trading Big Ben.

The Bills? The Raiders? The Browns? (Gosh, I hope not!)

The Steelers will do whatever it takes to maintain their reputation. If that means kicking Ben to the curb, then so be it.

Ben: Learn from your mistakes and good luck

At this point, Roethlisberger has a lot at stake: his image, career and respect.

Now, all Big Ben can do is move one and in all seriousness, learn from Tiger. He can’t look back now.  

Any sports fan knows there are some bad seeds out there that can spoil a good thing. Unfortunately for Roethlisberger, he is that bad seed.

Though it will be an astronomical decision for the Steelers to trade Ben, it may be a blessing in disguise for him. Becoming part of a new franchise will give Roethlisberger a fresh start and could possibly help him build a new image.

All I know is that the next couple of days will be filled with surprises, shocks and thrills in the wonderful world of football. Let’s just hope Ben will learn from his mistakes for the last time and bring something more than controversy to the NFL.

In the sports world, we are handed different “chocolates” every day—some good, some bad.

Image source:http://assets.nydailynews.com

Over the years, we’ve witnessed some pretty miraculous plays, both in and outside the sidelines. No matter where those plays occur, people must realize the impact they have on society. Just take a look at Phil Mickelson.

Phil and breast cancer

Between Tiger’s return to golf and the ongoing battle for the Green Jacket, it was quite the event at the Masters this past weekend.

The sight of Mickelson embracing his wife, Amy, after he clinched the title was the talk of the town.

Amy was diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2009. Six weeks later, Mickelson’s mother was also diagnosed with breast cancer. Needless to say, the emotional hug was moving.

In a single moment, Mickelson touched the souls of fans, supporters and spectators from all over the world. Why? Because people could relate to him.

Since the time of the diagnosis, Mickelson has been a proud supporter of the fight against breast cancer. He wears a pink ribbon to every tournament.

Today, athletes are used as ambassadors to create awareness about cancer, natural disasters and social issues, as well as many other causes.

In such cases, athletes are able to deliver a message and a call-to-action for others to follow.

Ambassadors of change

Too much of the time, athletes forget the responsibilities and power of their jobs.

Athletes have an opportunity to speak out against crimes, create awareness about diseases and increase participation in various programs. They are godlike figures in our world and are watched step by step.  

This past NFL season, we witnessed the entire city of New Orleans unite to support the Saints’ journey to Super Bowl XLIV. Using the devastation of Hurricane Katrina  as their drive and motivation, nothing stood in their way of the Lombardi Trophy.

In 1996, Lance Armstrong was diagnosed with testicular cancer. Since then, LIVESTRONG has been an iconic slogan to motivate, inspire and instill faith in others.  

Image source:http://www.oakley.com

More than games

It warms my heart when athletes help others, but it really gives me goose bumps when the experience comes full circle.

NBA player Kevin Love discovered that when he took part “Rookie Relief” program, where he made a special connection with a St. Jude’s patient.

“It just reminds you to enjoy life, because at any time things can turn against you,” Love said. “Being able to put my hands on the whole thing and develop a relationship with a kid who’s been through it all, it’s pretty special to me. It makes me kind of hold everything closer.”    

To be frank, I am sick and tired of athletes getting bad reps.

Sure, there are a handful of athletes who bend and break the rules, but at the core of it all, athletes are good people, too.

In the end, it’s more than promoting a cause and creating a positive reputation; it’s about committing acts of kindness that will ultimately change the world.

Now, I think that’s something Forrest’s momma would be proud of.

At a glance, most would think these words were an exchange between Tiger Woods and his wife, Elin; however, it shocked the world that these powerful statements came from Woods’ late father, Earl Woods, in Nike’s latest Tiger commercial.

The “controversial” ad features Tiger staring directly into the camera with a somber facial expression while Earl’s voice is echoed in the background.

I don’t know if it was the black and white raw footage or the chilling words from Earl, but I believe that this was one of the most impactful ads I’ve ever seen.

Now, I know people are in an uproar over this commercial for two reasons: one, it had no point or relevance; two, it was unethical to use Earl’s voice (on Tiger’s and Nike’s part). Putting opinions about the Tiger scandal aside, I beg to differ.

Image source: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Nike
To say the commercial has no relevance is an uneducated statement to make. When a company chooses a spokesperson it looks at the qualities that person possesses and creates a branding/marketing message off of that. In Tiger’s case, he’s always represented Nike as being a champion—nothing more, nothing less.

Nike’s mission is: to bring inspiration and innovation to every athlete in the world. Tiger’s ad accomplishes that as he represents a story about second chances, mistakes and adversity all within a 30-second clip.

People consume their lives in these kinds of issues looking for reasons upon reasons of how a particular subject is bad. Heck, with the way the world is today, people would find flaws in Gandhi. But let’s face reality—that IS our world, so high-profile individuals like Tiger have no choice but to deal with such situations.

The Bleacher Report’s Mike Carley wrote how such people have blown this situation out of the water.
“Here is where we need to recognize the traits Nike has chosen to harp on in Tiger in past ads.

How many Nike commercials have you ever seen in which Tiger is in a wedding chapel with Elin stating that the key behind his success at golf was his ability to be a good husband? Or talking about/representing family values whatsoever? Or suggesting that you should lead those same values as well? Never? Thought so.”
Point made.

Tiger did make a mistake, but now he is moving on. Nike is staying consistent in its branding message of Tiger, and in my opinion, should have nothing to worry about.

If you loyal Pink Cleats followers can remember back to my Tiger Woods: rebuilding an icon post in February, Tiger has taken the first step towards restoring his reputation with Nike.

Earl
In terms of the Earl-factor, critics, fans and the sporting world really have to analyze this situation.

Image source: http://corinnaallen46.files.wordpress.com

Yes, Earl is deceased and yes, his voice was used in a Nike ad, but this isn’t the first time Nike has done so. In 2008, Nike released a similar commercial using Earl’s voice with clips of Tiger and Earl through the years. (Earl passed away in 2006)

The bond between Tiger and Earl was as solid and strong as steel, and Tiger’s last intention would be to disrespect his father’s legacy.

People raised questions about not having Earl’s “consent” for this commercial, but for Pete’s sake, Tiger is Earl’s son. He credits his success to Earl, the one who helped him become a champion and who trained him to be mentally tough. Earl isn’t used to drive consumers to purchase the latest Tiger gear or invest in Nike Golf, but to deliver a message.

If Earl’s words were used in a different way, such as “Tiger, I forgive you and so should the world. Go buy Nike, now,” then we would be having a different discussion.

Once again, Tiger is showing the world he can rise above the noise and continue on his path to greatness. What do you think?

Everyone loves to hate them and hates to love them, but there’s no escaping the entertainment aspect of endorsement deals in the wonderful world of professional sports.

Sure, we love the game-day atmosphere, but there’s no doubt entertainment lingers beyond the sidelines.

Throughout the years, we have witnessed commercials where we thought, “Now that was clever,” and some other ads where we just sat and scratched our heads thinking, “What in the heck was that?”

So, how do these powerhouse companies choose specific athletes to promote particular brands? Come to think of it, endorsement deals are a lot like high school.

Image source: http://www.sneakerfiles.com

The popular kid
During high school, we stuck ourselves into these “cliques” that were to define our teen social status. Don’t lie. In some form or another, we all did. There were the jocks, the preps, the geeks, the artists, and then there was the popular kid. When companies choose an athlete to endorse a product, they aren’t going to choose, let’s say, a Philip Rivers. Companies are going to select a Lebron James. Why? Athletes like Lebron are idolized all over the world and reach a huge audience. Just think of the notorious Air Jordan. To this day, Michael Jordan is still recognized as the global poster boy for Nike. At the time of his prime, everyone knew who he was, everyone admired his extraordinary basketball abilities and everyone wanted to be like him. Bottom line, these “cliques” of athletes are going to drive sales.

The National Honor Society
It makes perfect sense brands want high-profile athletes, however, they want respected high-profile athletes. A high school doesn’t want to send a student who skips class and is on the verge of failing to represent the school during an Academic Challenge competition, right? That would be like sending Terrell Owens to speak to high school athletes about being humble. Brands have to be careful who they choose to represent their image and message. Look at Tiger Woods. Gatorade stuck by him just as long as Carmen Electra stuck with Dennis Rodman. You have to do research and choose an athlete with class, respect and pride. Donovan McNabb’s Campbell’s Chucky Soup commercial, featuring his mom, is one of my favorite commercials. It was personable, cute and delivered a message. McNabb gave Campbell’s the wholesome image it was looking for.

Student Council
High school student councils are to represent the school, its spirit and its student body. Everything from pep rallies to fundraising events concerns it, because the student council delivers the schools message. Wheaties is known as the “Breakfast of Champions,” and Nike is identified by its “Just do it” slogan. There has to be some relevancy between an athlete and a product before a brand chooses an athlete, such as the endorsement deal between Speedo and Michael Phelps. Who would have thought of such an idea?

Image source: http://www.shoppingblog.com

In the end, brands have to make sure that their message and prospective endorser go together like peanut butter and jelly, otherwise they’ll be toast!

Notorious B.I.G. wasn’t kidding when he sang “Mo Money, Mo Problems.”

Ben Roethlisberger is living proof of the 90’s hit and has, yet again, allowed his life of fame and fortune to put him in a sticky situation.

A 20-year-old female college student claimed Roethlisberger sexually assaulted her at Capital City nightclub, in Milledgeville, Ga., on Friday evening.

The identity of the girl is being withheld.

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This is the second time the star-quarterback and two-time Super Bowl champion has been accused of assault within a year.

Boy, oh Ben, what were you thinking?

Past decisions

I understand athletes are humans, too, but when you’re under the spotlight, shouldn’t you been making wiser decisions?

Yes, I realize the girl may be lying and, yes, this whole situation may be swept under the rug within a couple of weeks, but high-profile athletes should know better than to put themselves into bad situations, especially if they have a history of bad behavior.

Anyone recall Big Ben’s little motorcycle accident in 2006 when he wasn’t wearing a helmet?  And like I said before, this is the second—I repeat SECOND—time Ben has been accused of assault within a year!  He might as well be spoon feeding the media.

Future decisions

I know Ben could be completely innocent, but am I the only one seeing a pattern of these alleged crimes?

If Roethlisberger does not want to be known as the “Most Valuable Assaulter,” he needs to get his act together. Bottom

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 line, Ben needs to make smarter decisions and realize his choices can ultimately impact his reputation, the Steelers , his endorsement deals, and most importantly, his life.

Hasn’t he learned anything from Tiger and Kobe?

In a USA Today article, by Michael McCarthey, Ty Ballou, president and chief executive officer of Pittsburgh-based PLB Sports, which markets the “Big Ben Beef Jerky” brand, said, “It’s just very concerning. Ben is a single guy. He has every right to be out doing what he’s doing. But when you’re the quarterback of any team, especially the Steelers, you have to take extra measures.”

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The Bleacher Report’s Tim King took matters into his own hands and directly addressed Big Ben in his blog:

“We know that you aren’t a monster.  We know about the charities you support and the small things you do in the community that never get reported.  But now some of those people are going to see you in a different light.  Many of them aren’t going to want you around after this.  Same with some of your corporate sponsors.  Ask Tiger Woods about that.  That part of your life is really over if you wind up in a Georgia jail.”

“Yeah, think about that last part for a minute.  You could find yourself generating the same sorts of headlines that Michael Vick did a couple of years ago.  Sleep on that tonight.”

If that doesn’t scream reality check, then I don’t know what else does.

All I’m asking of any athlete out there is to think, please! It only takes one person, one second and one moment to change your lives forever.

Hopefully, this will be the last time Roethlisberger has to learn from mistakes off the field.