Sports & Socialization
By: Emily Forloines & Alex Wenrich
In class, we discussed how socialization was an essential part of class. Our focus in class was really focused on how to socialize kids into sport, but rookie orientation programs are also socialization processes. The NHL announced that they has a rookie orientation program where about 90 players were scheduled to come out for their benefit to learn the ropes of the NHL. The NFL, MLB and NBA already have established rookie programs. The rookie program is meant to teach incoming players about training, media techniques, and presentations of health and safety issues with a section about how to manage personal details and finances. Rookies face a huge dose of reality when they step into the spotlight and many just do not know how to manage it all. Alex Dagg, NHLPA (National Hockey League Players Assocication) director of operations said, "They are about to be coming into a fishbowl where they will be analyzed all the time".
Coakley explains a study done by sport sociologist, Chris Stevenson, where he wanted to learn more about what makes an elite athlete. Stevenson concluded that it is an in-depth, interactive process that the players of their respected sport socialize and become committed to that activity. Coakley explains that the way athletes are introduced and maintained in sport determines whether they will succeed or ultimately drop that sport. The rookie programs that are available for the big league sports are important because these top athletes obviously have the talent for the team; however, they most likely do not have the skills that are need as star athletes. Socialization is a continuous process for people who participate in sports since they are going through different levels and new teams, they have to get used to the new expectations and roles they will hold.
No comments:
Post a Comment