Professional athletes have always had to deal with the media. That’s no secret in the sports world. However, it’s not just athletes “dealing” with the media; the media has to put up with a lot of ridicule from the players.
The most recent case of the media having to deal with a certain player is from Super Bowl 50. After the big game, Cam Newton of the Carolina Panthers got up and walked out of his press conference after only less than five minutes. Newton overheard Broncos cornerback Chris Harris loudly celebrating his victory behind Newton.
Newton, who was visibly upset about the loss and over Harris’ actions, stood up and left. Former and current NFL players have responded by either supporting Newton for his actions or scolded him.
This isn’t the first time a professional athlete has been annoyed to the point of leaving their press conference. However, it wasn’t the media’s fault, as they were just doing their jobs. Another instance has been at plenty of post-game press conferences when coaches would get upset with the media for brining up poor performances. The coaches or players would get smart with the media and refuse to answer their questions.
Chip Kelly is a perfect example. Kelly, who was the head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles this past NFL season, would ignore the media’s questions and refuse to answer any questions due to being upset about the final of a game.
In no way is that fair to the media. The media can get out of hand sometimes, I know, but for the most part they are just trying to do their jobs. Luckily, I’ve been fortunate to interview athletes at Cal U and not have them get up and walk out. I interviewed Nate Bellhy of the men’s basketball team about two weeks ago. I had to bring up the team’s disappointing loss to Indiana University of Pennsylvania and the team’s upsetting record. However, Bellhy remained composed and answered all of my questions. Now if Bellhy, who is simply just a college athlete, can do that, why can’t professional athletes and coaches?
Nobody likes recalling a bad experience, especially an athlete. I’ve been there and I’ve done that, but I would never walk out of an interview. Newton’s case bothers me the most. Newton was just voted the MVP of the NFL. What does that really mean? It means he’s the face of the NFL right now and the face of the NFL should not abruptly walk out of their interview because they are angry about the way they played.
Being an athlete is a privilege, and with that privilege comes plenty of responsibility. It might not seem like a major one, but being respectful towards the media when all they’re trying to do is do their job, is actually a vital responsibility of any athlete.