The Falcon's Eye-Oct. 12

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the

Falcon’s Eye

Pfeiffer University http://media.pfeiffer.edu/falconseye/Oct12.pdf

October 2012

PFEIFFER ATHLETES UNDER CONTRACT By Sarah Hill

Many athletes across campus are in a frenzy over social media contracts that must be signed through the athletic department in order to play any sport at Pfeiffer University. The social media contracts entail guidelines for what can and cannot be posted via Facebook, Twitter, and other social websites. This includes any type of derogatory or defamatory language, questionable photos, or any references to drugs or alcohol. “I understand it, but I feel like there’s a point at which we have the right to say whatever we wish to say,” freshman soccer player Amanda Ross said. Once the contracts are signed, coaches have discretion over proper punishment. If the coach feels that an athlete is misrepresenting the team or Pfeiffer in any way, they are allowed to take action. “A girl posted something and now she’s not allowed to practice for a week,” Ross said. Freshman athletes are not the

only ones trying to get used to the restrictions. Many upperclassmen are questioning whether this violates their First Amendment rights. “At what point do you trust athletes for what they post and don’t post [on the internet],” said one senior athlete who wished to remain anonymous. In fact, many athletes we interviewed believe the contracts are a little extreme, but were afraid to speak out because of possible punishment. On the other hand, some athletes are not opposed to the media contracts. “It doesn’t bother me at all. I haven’t changed anything since I’ve been here. I don’t post anything I feel I need to hide,” senior golfer Ben Tobey said. Coaches we spoke with are in favor of the contract. “I think they should have the policy. I’m not so sure they should throw kids off the team every time they say something without thinking, because one of my beliefs is that you need to fail to learn from it and move

forward. For me, it would depend on what a student has previously done... It is a teaching method,” men’s soccer coach Jason Smith said. What do you think of student athletes being forced to sign social media contracts? Visit The Falcon’s Eye Facebook page to voice your opinion.

2012

Homecoming Court MORE SCENES FROM HOMECOMING AND SPIRIT WEEK ON PGS 9 & 24


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