Off-the-field expectations

Athletes are public figures. They travel across the country with the IU emblem across their clothing. They are broadcast nationally to thousands of people across America. They are role models to kids in the community, and looked up to by many on this campus. \n This is especially true for the IU football team. No matter what the score, IU students have not stopped screaming their lungs out on game day or painting their chests red and white. \n Because of these reasons, it often seems we hold the more than 100 players to a higher standard. \n Well, it's true. We do hold our football players to a higher standard, and when they break the law, it not only reflects badly on them, but on the entire University. \nRecently, two football players, Steven Patrick Thomson and Jamarkus K. Gorman, were arrested for theft at an ATM machine. Allegedly, they stole $200 from an ATM card that was left in the machine and drove off. \nDuring the summer, another player, Clarence Young, was arrested on rape charges. \nLast year, Greg Yeldell was kicked off the team for what coach Cam Cameron said was "violating the rules." Yeldell was arrested for possession of marijuana and resisting arrest eight months before his dismissal. Yes, it is college, and yes, everyone makes mistakes. But most people are not on a full or partial scholarship and most people don't get broadcast on ESPN Saturday afternoons.\nThese are serious offenses, and they deserve serious consequences, even on the first offense. The NCAA suspended the entire athletic program at University of Southern California for the academic violations of three athletes. They wanted to send a message about academic honesty. But on the grand scale, an alleged rape is a much harsher offense than a few copied papers.\nWith the new football season starting next Thursday, it's time to lay down the rules for the players. It is up to Cameron, his coaching staff and the athletic program to remind the athletes of the importance of their position. We will be there to support you so please do your best to represent us.\n