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Monday, October 23, 2006
The Court of Public Opinion
Too often, right and wrong is in the eye of the beholder. Take the University of Miami and the “big fight” in its game with Florida International University.The difference in how these two institutions handled their players’ behavior couldn’t be more stark. If you’re a die-hard Miami fan, you might not agree with me, or you may be terribly embarrassed by your alma mater. I think Donna Shalala’s comments and actions are shameful, especially in comparison with Florida International’s actions.
Two FIU players were kicked off team; one Miami player was given an indefinite suspension. Sixteen other FIU players sanctioned for their roles in the brawl were suspended indefinitely, while 12 more Miami players sat out one game against a winless team.
Shalala gave extensive apologies to everyone, but they lost all value with the rest of her comments and actions. Saying “we will not throw any student under the bus for instant restoration of our image or our reputation.” How about the player who kicked another player who was on the ground? Isn’t that worth kicking him off the team?
The team has since instituted a “zero tolerance” for fighting. What was the policy before? Didn’t anyone know right from wrong till now? How many parents want their sons playing for that team? At least one prized recruit’s family said their son won’t be going to Miami after all.
Do her actions reinforce the bad-boy image of Miami that began in the 80s? What would the result be if Shalala said the University of Miami doesn’t condone such behavior, that the school would be permanently suspending some of the players, not just pulling a few from a game against a winless team? Don’t you think it would change public perception?
Two basic lessons here: the court of public opinion will rule and your actions must support your words.
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