Media links athletes to sexual assault

NINA SCIMENES SPORTS EDITOR NMS722@CABRINI EDU

“Just do it,” Nike’s infamous flashy marketing slogan is just one example of a sexual innuendo linked to sports. The hot topic of sexual assault has been recently haunting a number of athletic programs, such as the La Salle men’s basketball team. Being aware of consequences is encouraged to steer clear of potentially unfortunate situations.

Cabrini College will be hosting Mike Domitrz to connect with students about his views dealing with sexual assault, dating and respect in the Grace Hall Atrium, Thursday March, 17 from 7 p.m. - 8p.m. Domitrz will be discussing his book, “Can I kiss you.” All students are welcome to be a part of the audience to gain informative knowledge.

Student-athletes have been given further instructions by the athletic department to avoid missing-out on Domitrz’s presentation. In addition to the general assembly, male spring-athletes are scheduled for a preceding breakout session, scheduled from 6 p.m- 7 p.m. The emphasis of the session stemmed from related cases of athletes being the victims and suspects of rape cases.

At the present time, three former LaSalle University male basketball players are on trial for rape. Their cases have received excessive media attention, while the LaSalle continues to absorb harsh scrutiny. The “alleged” rapist are now disaffiliated with LaSalle University. Punishment for the former basketball players did not allow them to continue their basketball careers. To add to the criticism of athlete’s sexual misconduct, the LaSalle cases occurred at a similar time period to that of the Los Angeles Laker’s Kobe Bryant rape case.

In one reporter’s opinion, there is no particular stereotype for a rapist. Also, to link sexual assault primarily to athletics is misleading. Society questions if strong media coverage is responsible for attaching sexual assaults to male athletes.

Bryant’s rape case was not the first or the last trial that involved an athlete on the stand in front of a jury. When an athletic “hero” slips up, the public is the very quick to hear about it from the media. Being a role model to the society’s youth puts a large weight on the shoulders of even the world best swimmer, Michael Phelps. At the age of 19 Phelps won more gold medals than most Olympians over years. His young success has brought many perspiring athletes who where shocked by his drinking and driving violation.

Being aware of the risks that are at stake when sexual limits are in question using the best judgment is the only best way to be safe. To find out more about this topic, read “ Can I kiss you,” Domitrz.