With sports headlines raving about recent bullying allegations against Miami Dolphins’ guard Richie Incognito for his conduct toward former Dolphins offensive tackle Jonathan Martin, many are questioning hazing rituals found in the NFL.
According to HazingPrevention.org, hazing is defined as “any action taken or situation created intentionally that causes embarrassment, harassment or ridicule.” Players in the big leagues are guilty of this crime, as their actions directed to incoming players or “rookies” are obnoxious, malicious and completely unnecessary.
Rookies are often victims of corny and embarrassing pranks, such as getting taped to a goal post, and are supposed to purchase expensive meals for veteran players when first entering a team. Most players seem to find this acceptable, given that it has not been a real issue before now.
"You pay your dues. You prove you can play, and then you don't get joked on, don't get s--- on," former Dolphins offensive lineman Josh Samuda told Sports Illustrated. "But you have to prove your status."
However, these empty claims of expected behavior blur the lines between harmless jokes and extreme bullying. For example, in August 2012, defensive end Jason Pierre-PaulNew York Giants cornerback threw Prince Amukamarainto a cold tub by against his will.
How does this “prove” anything other than the immature nature of football players in the locker room?
Within the realm of football, these actions have become the norm. But for the rest of the world, this behavior is demoralizing and can even push people to their limits. Although football players are known for having a thick skin, this doesn’t mask their emotional boundaries.
"It's not about punking someone. ... It's about respect for the men who came before you,” said former NFL offensive guard Chester Pitts in an interview with Bleacher Report. “You learn by humbling yourself and learning from the vets.”
Statements like this are the reason this cruel tradition continues, as individuals pass down this misguided mentality of “no pain, no gain” in order to “grow” as players. Across the country, there have been numerous initiatives to end bullying, yet one of the biggest industries in America includes it in their daily routine.
Most recently, Incognito has been accused of continuously attacking Martin with racial slurs and other instances of bullying, even after he grew out of his rookie status. Finally, Martin reached his limit and stepped down from the team.
Many have criticized Martin for not “manning up” in the situation by standing his ground and demanding respect from Incognito. If players are only deemed worthy or respect after suffering the harsh conducts from so-called teammates, what choice did he have?
"He could fight Richie Incognito. He could go and tell on the players, which we know in the football locker room doesn't go over too well,” said Seattle Seahawks receiver Doug Baldwin in an interview with Fox News. “Or he could remove himself from the situation and let the proper channels take care of itself. And I think he made the intelligent, smart choice without putting himself or Richie Incognito's physical abilities in danger."
Even worse, the rest of the team stood back and let this behavior occur. Incognito may be under fire, but the rest of the Dolphins are as much to blame as they use their tough guy image as an excuse to let inconsiderate and inappropriate comments slide.
“We’re talking about some of the biggest, toughest guys in the world, and nobody had the strength to fight for somebody who couldn’t fight for himself,” former NFL linebacker Bart Scott told USA Today Sports. “Out of the other 52 people in there, nobody was man enough to challenge this gentleman and say, ‘Hey, that’s wrong, and it’s not acceptable.’”
The NFL needs to get on board with the rest of society — hazing is not acceptable anywhere and should not be tolerated. Rookie or seasoned vet, players are still human and deserve respect and proper treatment from their colleagues, on and off the field.
Reach the columnist at rsmouse@asu.edu or follow her on Twitter @BeccaSmouse
