Although I’m becoming more concerned about justice in the nation’s efforts against terrorism, I’m glad to see some in the MSU community have not forgotten about justice on the personal level. Recently published letters still show concern for actions of athletes and for how fairly they supposedly “represent” us, or the university, on the playing fields, by their action off the field. I would add two points of concern.

Those chosen for major teams supposedly represent models of character, having high personal traits as well as athletic ability. To be worthy models they should demonstrate inherent physical capabilities (without need for performance-enhancing drugs), and their worthiness as students (without needing any special educational facilities or programs). I’ve known outstanding student-athletes who were exactly that, fit by their own native talents and intelligence. So it’s fair to expect better-than-average character of those chosen for the teams, and certainly not give easy excuses for wrongdoing.

When outright moral infractions are played down in dealing with an athlete’s irresponsibility, it’s an insult to everyone. Students are young people, and we could charitably make allowance for a young athlete by providing a second chance to make things right, to make a new start.

In case of admitted assault of a 13-year-old girl, how can a similar second chance be given? What justice is there for the victim and opportunity to make a new start? Such an assault is serious, especially so for a person that young. It’s a cop-out to play dumb by saying only the victim and perpetrator know what happened, for a 13-year-old is under age and entitled to the protection of society in any circumstance. Even if the victim is someone not within the university community, the overall actions of the one who is should be a concern for all of us, if we are to maintain respect for athletes as role models and the teams that supposedly stand for the “U.”

Steve Osborn
1952 MSU graduate, East Lansing resident