Seriously, who cares?

This article is the worst waste of space since the inception of Inside Catholic. What exactly are we supposed to take away from this?

John Kerrigan did not like the fact that Deal wrote on a subject from which and many other derive much pleasure and satisfaction (I am sure one could add frustration, disappointment, and a host of other descriptive adjectives). He claims it is a waste of space.

Well I am not a golfer. But I can appreciate anyone who takes on an interest that requires effort, discipline and practice. Further the article or open letter to be exact, offers the reader some history on the game and a charitable way of encouraging one's brother to be a better example for those who find him a role model.

Finally the subject matter reflects the universal impact of Catholicism in everything...even the game of golf.

Unfortunately, in our society, athletes tend to be role models. I disagree with this, but find it to be so anyway. Tiger Woods occassionaly exhibits some bad sportsmanship, but is actually pretty good compared to other athletes [especially in the NFL and NBA]. Perhaps he should be a bit more reserved, but I think he's still one of the good guys. Unlike so many of the other athletes, he nas never been arrested, or done anything really stupid.

Bobby Jones had a few choice words when he played the game, and apparently his club-throwing no doubt inspired Tommy Bolt's own penchant for such activity. Jones cussed like a sailor until he was told to knock it off or he wouldn't be invited to play any more.

Sure, Tiger wants to win, but so did Arnie and Jack and Tom. They at least had the good sense and self-control to keep their foul language to themselves. Sheer desire is no excuse for cursing.

My thanks go out to Rick and Deal....for saying what needed to be said.... for saying it so nicely.....to a really super guy.

Great column, Deal. It did need to be said. My son (20) and I have talked at length about Tiger's antics. He is putting his "brand" at risk.

Why has it become de rigueur to decry athletes being role models? Of course they are, and have been since time immemorial (see, e.g. ancient Greek Olympics). We value excellence, and true athletes often display many admirable virtues. They command a good amount of our time watching them, and a good amount of our money paying to see them or buy products they represent.

Obviously, they are human. They fail, and fail to live up to our expectations. When they do they risk losing our support and money (see Michael Vick).

Should we focus more on individuals like Mother Teresa as role models? Yes. But, as Robin Williams once noted, "Reality, what a concept!"

Mr. Hudson, Thank you for you comments and I do wish Mr. Woods will take them in the spirit of the game and clean up his mouth.

One of my favorite athletes, Charles Barkley, criticized parents for making him a role model to their children. He told them all he did was play basketball and to quit shifting responsibility for their own children on somebody else. Well said, sir Charles.

Another favorite athlete of mine, Pete Rose, was no prize in the personal conduct department, but there was never a greater competitor. Rick Reilly needs to stop the "holier than though" game and get Rose into the Hall of Fame.

To "Who Cares:" Believe or not, God cares.

Yes, we should all be Christ-like. Jesus Christ said: "Be ye perfect as your heavenly Father in heaven is perfect."

Why are the microphones so close to the golfers? With the rare exception of the "be right" golfers say nothing after hitting a good shot. Apparently the networks want people watching to hear what they have to say after bad shots.

As for Rick Reilly, it is common for big time sports writers to have a type of "quota" for their coverage. While baseball, basketball and football will take up the vast majority of their work, they are also asked to cover sports like hockey, golf, tennis and the big bike race. Because they usually aren't interested in these sports and therefore have very little knowledge, they often make personalities the subject of their articles. Sports writers are the only "hockey fans" who believe that there is still a lot of fighting in the game. Reilly's background is with Sports Illustrated and ESPN, neither of which are known for their golf coverage. My guess, therefore, is that Reilly doesn't know very much about golf but gets credit for writing a "golf" article even though it was about Tiger's personal behavior and not about golf at all.

Also, the foul language on a golf course is spontaneous and probably regretted (I speak from experience, it has become the last place I curse), while the foul language in the movie Leatherheads, which Rick Reilly wrote was premeditated and gratuitous.

Overall, I find the class and dignity with which professional golfers carry themselves truly outstanding, even if the microphones catch something just before "fore left!" once in a while.

Mark, as a matter of fact Rick Reilly is an expert and well-known golf commentator. Yes, we all occasionally let those words rip on the course. But we try to find a suitable replacement the next time, like "Lordy, Lordy." Tiger's f-bombs during the British Open were way over the line. The microphones are next to the golfer because the sound of the ball can tell you how well it was struck. Anyone knowing millions of people are watching on TV should restrain himself, or find appropriate exclamatories.

I am not a golf enthusiast like some of my friends and clients in business, but was rather surprised on reading this report by
Deal Hudson whose reference to Tiger Wood's friend and outstanding tennis champion Roger Federer for whom I the greatest admiration as a competitor under the most adverse conditions, such as the two greatest tennis finals at Wimbledon last year against the Spanish champion Nadal and recently in his battle with Andre Ruddock.

Federer could not break Ruddock's servic, but instead served over 50 aces of his own to finally outlast his rival and eventually win that mammouth match, which gave him the coveted title for the sixth time on the most famous tennis court.

This great victory gave credence to his accomplishments as the greatest men's singles tennis champion of all times.

Federer is well known for his cool and calm on the tennis court, which depicts him as the near perfect sportsman, except for a few moments of frustration as he displayed last year at the Erickson Open on Key Biscayne when he threw down his racket in utter frustration, which was quite usual for his calmness and sportsmanship for which he is known, even in defeat.

However in his earlier years it is reported that he was not the perfect gentleman on the court, and was subject to outbursts uncharacteristic of a champion.

This kind of behavior does not bode well for outstanding athletes who are expected to set an example for younger aspirants to follow, not only that, but for reputable companies who endorse famous athletes such as, Lance Armstrong, Usian Bolt and Michael Phelps, who recently was admonished for his unbecoming behavior.

Let us hope that Tiger Woods will clean up his act, and behave like a gentleman by avoiding the kind of outbursts mentioned by Deal Hudson.

"If profanity had any influence on the flight of the ball, the game would be played far better than it is."
Horace G. Hutchinson

I have followed Tiger Woods for years, spending way too many nice sunny afternoons in front of the TV watching him instead of being outside doing stuff.

It is news to me that he has such an over-the-top temper and bad manners. Am I now to think less of Tiger? Apparently.

So that makes this column a rather plain case of detraction, doesn't it?

Somebody had to say it? Detraction is something that nobody ever has to say.

We know you, as all America can still (become):

"Be the difference that makes the difference." -Matthew Kelly, NY Times Bestselling Author 'The Rhythm of Life'

My husband loves to golf. I've watched more golf than I ever would have predicted, as a result of his interests, and our young daughters, who are exposed to little TV in general, know that golf is the exception, especially if Tiger Woods is playing.

With this perspective - exposed to golf, though not obsessed - I agree with Bender: I simply hadn't noticed any bad behavior from Tiger. We have commented to our daughters upon the amount that he practices, how he is determined, how he congratulates and speaks well of those who win (on the occasions when he does not), etc. and in all of those areas, he has been a good example. I don't expect him, or anyone else, to be perfect... and if through the media's decision to cover such language we had become aware of it, we would have used that as a lesson in fallability, had a simple discussion about how everyone makes mistakes. That lesson is far more important in the context of Tiger's strengths as a role model than would be a mis-impression that any person is a perfect model.

We all can stand improvement in various ways. Knowing this, I can't help feeling like being more charitable toward Tiger. As a celebrity, more of his actions are public than we can even imagine. If my life were made as public as is his, there would be many flaws that would open me for criticism. Rather than telling him how to behave, I'd prefer to focus on the areas in my own life that need change, knowing that each individual's self-improvement efforts should be based on personal priorities, made through discernment informed by prayer, not on an external concern about image.

I am inclined to agree with the last posting by "a golf widow". Tiger is, and always has been, an good example on and off the course. However there is one habit of his that I find irritating and that is his propensity to spit after taking a shot. As already note above he should remember that the camera stays with his face after the shot has been executed. If he must spit [and I do not understand why he must] please can he do so privately! - but preferably not at all.

I was interested to note that in one comment a writer noted Bobby Jones' frequent bad language and club-throwing. Since Bobby Jones was my grandfather, I'd like to add a few thoughts to this issue.

First, my grandfather was noted for those behaviors. He believed that these were problems that were affecting him only and no one else. He learned another lesson when a club that he threw in a 1922 championship struck a woman spectator in the leg. He was horrified.

So, too, was George Herbert Walker, then President of the United States Golf Association. Walker sent a letter to my grandfather saying that his applications to U.S.G.A. championships would not be accepted until he could control his temper. In a letter to Walker, my grandfather wrote that he would never again allow his emotion to take control of him in a championship. And he never did.

My grandfather went on to win 13 national championships in the next 8 years, retiring in 1930 after being the only person in history to win the Grnad Slam, all four major championships in the same calendar year.

His record of sportsmanship was so exemplary that the U.S.G.A.'s highest award, the Bob Jones Award, is given annually for that person who most exemplifies sportsmanship.

Tiger's behavior on the course does reflect on him and on the game. Mr. Reilly's observations are right on the mark. Tiger and the game of golf would be benefited by his embracing of a gentlemanly ethic.

Bob, thanks so much for leaving a comment about your grandfather.

My favorite story about him is one that might interest the readers of InsideCatholic. At the end of regulation play at 1929 U.S. Open, played at Winged Foot, your grandfather was tied with Al Espinosa. When Bobby Jones, Jr. was told that the playoff would begin early the next morning, a Sunday, he asked that the playoff begin later in the day so Espinosa could attend Mass.

My understanding is that both your grandfather and grandmother, who, I believe, was a Catholic, attended Mass with the Espinosas. Bobby Jones, Jr. won that playoff rather handily, I recall.

My brother in law is a PGA professional (as opposed to "professional golfer"-two different forms of licensure). He can't stand Tiger Woods for the reasons you mention, as well as for the way he's changed the demeanor of fans.

To "Who Cares":
I suggest you watch "The Legend of Bagger Vance". There is something very contemplative about the game of golf, and, unlike many sports, it is a game that's all about rules: rules that sommetimes don't seem to make sense but are based upon keeping things fair and courteous, and on keeping the individual honest and rule-abiding.

Back when I used to golf with my parents when I was a teenager, I said to my dad once: "Dad, when I golf, I say a prayer. I take a calm breath. Then I take a practice swing. Then I hit the ball. . . . When you golf, you do the reverse and opposite."

Well thank you very much Mr. Hudson. I know that is what Rick Reilly would say to you if you ever meet.
The problem with this country is that the news media refuses to
tell the public any good news but continues to dwell on bad news. I have been a golfer all my life and have seen every emotion played out during many rounds of golf. It is the greatest game (sport) there is in my opinion. But let's face the issue at hand. I do not condone Mr. Woods bad language or
frustration actions on or off the course. I try my best to always act like a responsible adult on and off the course. It does not always work because like Mr. Woods I am not perfect.
For all of you who think Mr. Woods should teach your children
about behavior I say stop being so (wait for it here comes a four letter word) LAZY. These are your children take an interest in what they are watching an explain to them the difference between good and bad behavior. And here is a novel
idea maybe say a prayer for Mr. Woods and all sports figures that you need to help you with rasing your children or even
a rosary. That would be positive. Do not get caught in this world of pointing out the negatives. Let the news and sports
industry report on the many good and religious people in this world and the good they are doing. Will we see in a future article the good that Mr. Woods has done for so many in this
world. Don't worry I won't hold my breath. Mr. Hudson and Mr Reilly be a role model for your children and others. If those of us over the age of 21 acted like we should this world would be a better place. In the mean time pray for Mr. Woods and all the people that our news media is so quick to point a finger at
because that is what sells. Hopefully God will instill in Mr. Woods the power and courage to change. Pary for the good, pray for the good. Pray to God Almighty for His aboundant and perfect love. God Bless Always.
P.S. Let's all watch golf on TV this weekend with our children and root for all the players.

thank you mr. hudson. you are truly a "Son of Thunder". We Catholics must speak out today against the onslaught targeted at our faith by the corrupt mass-media.
sincerely,
Rob Epperly,
Author, Sons of Thunder, the Story of Joe and Paul...
read a chapter on Amazon.com

Deal,

Thank you for a well written and appropriate article. Greatness, and expertise in any sport does not excuse the type of behavior displayed by Tiger Woods. Because Tiger has worked so hard over the years to improve his game, I feel confident he'll work just as hard to exhibit the image of a class act golfer so that he will be remembered that way for generations to come.

God Bless.

"Mark, as a matter of fact Rick Reilly is an expert and well-known golf commentator" - Deal

I have seen Reilly dozens of times on TV and have heard him speak on virtually every sport except golf, so I stand corrected... though my idea of "expert commentators" would be Johnny Miller and Ken Venturi (the Masters still isn't the same without him).

I agree with you regarding Tiger's classless behavior, it dates back to when he was an amateur. I just wish the messenger would have been someone who wasn't profiting from delivering the message, as sports writers do... maybe Arnold Palmer or Gary Player?

Oh, and we do have the technology to cut microphones off immediately after club contact with the ball, maybe that would be a good idea until he cleans up his act.

Although your article is fair and a valid point is made, it should be kept in mind that Tiger Woods appears to be a family man with other admirable attributes. At a time when too many professional athletes have been involved in drugs , sexual misconduct, cheating, to date Tiger Woods seems to have been a rather fine example. Being so much in public eye there must be days he wishes he was just another good golfer.

There is one problem with adopting sports figures as role models, and that it blinds children to other role models in other walks of life. From there to planning their future on a career in sports sometimes is a short step, and one with disasatrous consequences. Thus we have children who prefer to spend time in the court instead of studying in the hope of becoming sports superstars, a belief, as former NBA star and congresman Tom McMillen, akin to taking all your money out of the bank and using it to buy lottery tickets.

Years back I judged science fairs, and had a good time of it, until one day I noticed that there were no black contestants, and, more importantly, that no one seemed to notice, not the parents, not the NAACP, nobody. Black children belonged in the court, not in the lab. This complete lack of scientific role models was really troubling (never mind that the astronomer that deaoted Pluto from planet to plutoid is black...). Or any other occupation that demands virtues such as patience, observation, attention to detail.

So, it is about time that we stop this silly idea of making role models out of sports figures, and accept them as they are, with their foibles and strengths, grateful for the enjoyment they bring us, and grateful that they do not engage in truly disgraceful public behavior. But we should ask no more of them, or as they say in Spanish "do not ask pears of the elmtree".

Your science fair example is a good one. It's one thing to appreciate athletes for for their discipline and achievement; it's a whole other matter to elevate these individuals into demi-gods. Our media crazed society provides us with distorted, one dimensional glimpses into their lives and they almost never really measure up. Most professional athletes are terminally immature and lead decadent lives. These folks are apparently the best we can come up with as role models for our children. Give me a break!

I'm rather surprised by this. Leave it to this world to find something wrong with someone else, and feel responsible for pointing it out. It's hard to believe when you consider what he's done in the sport, but there is compelling evidence to suggest that Tiger Woods is a human being.

"Look Tiger, you're doing a great job. You're almost perfect..it's just this cursing thing that we're concerned about."

My advice to Rick and Dean is look at themselves in the mirror, and evaluate how they measure on the role-model scale. If they're are doing a great job, then they should make sure to integrate this argument into their work with others. Point out that people often lash out when things don't go their way, but that it takes discipline to control a temper.

I'm sure Tiger is well aware of his faults, and considering his upbringing, celebrity, and fame, I'm sure he's not often proud of his behavior. But we should spend more time worrying about our own problems and behaviors, and less time pointing out those of others. Especially those who don't have many at all. Like Tiger.

"But now your fans are asking for something more."
Right. Sorry Tiger, but in this world, doing a great job is not enough.

Oh behalf I Tiger, I suggest that reporters (little nerdy guys who never played a game in their lives) and commenters work on their own lives and leave the most important golfer in the world alone.

Tiger is no better or worse than anyone else on this planet. He is a sinner just like the rest of us. Deal, if you were under the same microscope as he is how would you look? I know I would not appear any better. We should teach our children that Jesus is their role model not any man/woman on earth. All fall short of the Glory of God but by grace we have been saved.

Speaking as a "nerdy guy who has never played a sport in his life," because it would kill me, I'd like to make two additional observations.
1. Why is this particular mortal sin so easily dismissed by American Catholics? I can see a building blow up in a movie, and I have no serious temptation to blow up a building. A person can commmit adultery in a movie, and that doesn't really make me want to cheat on my wife. But the more I hear other people, in real life, or in the movies, using profanity, the harder it becomes for me in a tense moment to keep from using it myself.

Yes, Tiger Woods is a flawed human being, but what is the point of saying, "He's a great example of self-discipline" for the game he makes millions of dollars playing, hitting a silly ball around the grass, but he can't demonstrate even the most basic decency?

If he were walking out on the golf course with 2 prostitutes hanging off him, would you say, "He's just a flawed person"?
If he were walking out on the golf course shooting up cocaine, would you say, "He's just a flawed person"?

I am a horrible sinner. I will even gladly talk about my sins with others if it helps to build virtue. But I certainly understand the concept of setting a good example.

2. The issue Mr. Hudson is raising is not Tiger Woods, but golf itself. I can't stand most organized sports. There are a lot of reasons, but the biggest of them is the noise. I can't stand the screaming and the swearing. Hearing some parent at a high school game yell "%%@&%^ REF!" doesn't make me think poorly of the ref. It makes me want to go down and pat the ref on the back and say, "I'm sorry for that horrible person. I know you're doing your best."

Golf is one of the few sports that has remained a refuge of such attitudes, maintaing as part of the game strict rules of etiquette. Must we lose all vestige of gentility in our society?

Who cares what Tiger Woods does? People come on don't you have more important things to focus on? Hmmm..here's a thought poverty, 3rd world living conditions, etc. Focusing on Tiger Woods and who he is sleeping with...come on people broaden your scope he is just a teeny tiny particle on the face of this earth, what a waste of energy and time.