sign in sign up
<<
Home , Los Angeles Rams, Luke Richardson, Manny Mota, Mike Davis (baseball), Orel Hershiser, Pennant (sports)

DOCUMENT RESUME

.ED 377 127 SO 024 610

AUTHOR Degelman, Charles, Ed.; Hayes, Bill, Ed. TITLE []. INSTITUTION Constitutional Rights Foundation, LosAngeles, Calif. PUB DATE 94 NOTE 17p. AVAILABLE FROMConstitutional Rights Foundation, 601South Kingsley Drive, , CA 90005. PUB TYPE Guides Classroom Use Instructional Materials (For Learner)(051) Guides Classroom Use Teaching Guides (For Teacher) (052) Collected Works Serials (022) JOURNAL CIT Sports & the Law; v8 n1-2 Win 1994

EDRS PRICE MF01/PC01 Plus Postage. DESCRIPTORS *Athletics; Citizenship Education;Elementary Secondary Education; *Law RelatedEducation; Social Studies; *Violence

ABSTRACT This teaching resource presentsarticles that draw on young people's natural interest in sportsto stimulate their involvement in law-related education.An article on violence in sports explores the causes of thisviolence--the physical contact inherent in many sports, the desireto win at all costs, the urging of coaches, and the negligenceof referees--as well asmeasures proposed to restrain players, includingsafety equipment, fines and suspensions, criminal charges, and civilpenalties. In a lesson plan that follows, students are assignedthe roles of either referees, league administrators, or criminalprosecutors and asked topropose solutions to several hypotheticalviolent episodes. In the 's column, a regular feature, Andy Schwichdescribes the charitable activities of Dodger's OrelHershiser and his nomination for the Award foroutstanding achievementon and off the field. An article on the outreachactivities of Los Angeles sports teams describes a midnight basketballleague, educational support programs, and community youth supportprograms. In an interview, retired Los Angeles Raider'ssafety, , describes his activities as executive directorof the NFL Youth Education Town, which encourages inner-city athletesto focus on their education. (JD)

********************************************************************** Reproductions supplied by EDRSare the best that can be made from the original document. *********************************************************************** CRF

THE CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS FOUNDATION iter 1994volume 8number 1 & 2

rr;:"I

;1' ip:1

--±e/ ' ')fA.

irrcro''" 71

r li

tl s. 1 111111111k U.S. DEPARTMENT OF SOUCAT1001 Office of Educational Research and Improvement EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES INFORMATION CENTER (ERIC) 1. ,This document has been reproduced as recur ad from IM parson or cogemzation fr originating it 30,4 - 1:1 Minor chimp's have been mad* to improve 777,.44 reproduction quality

Points of view or opinions stated in this docu- ment do not necessarily represent official 0£R1 position or pokey

"PERMISSION TO REPRODUCE THIS MATERIAL HAS BEEN GRANTEDBY (Y) (Eby

TO THE EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES INFORMATION CENTER (ERIC)." ...2` 1),- e 1±`-r ,,,, r 1 ',.. ' A Z.. l'b. 4 (..1' $7;.6. 1106..:41 (3 , .., ...... ,..,.. ;-:-.4,;.0 ---- - : _, -----' .....414.). .... 4Ii iilie-A4la- -,-VZiir. Yr..... $1'.--. 44.....7;;,..".".'-E'S.";..,.. s As;;...... :"Aveassesiorsvar '7"T"c."'.. T ' - -.'....-46.4r, 4 : 44, -VW 47:440;

- -7. --cm...,*.

^V;

(The BettmannArchive.)

h i I ssu' e Violence in Sports Coach's ColumnReaching Out For the Long GOALS LessonsWhat Do You Think?Puzzle Violenceespecially youth violenceis a serious problem in America. Violence plagues our cities and affects millions of lives each year. In this issue of Sports & the Law, we explore some basic questions: Whatcan be done about violence on the playing field? What can sports contribute to solving the underlying causes of youth violence? Can sports figures serve as positive role models for young people? "Violsnce and Sports" looks at violence on the playing field, and explores the causes of sports violence, and possible solutions for reducing it. "Reaching Out" describes efforts that some L.A. pro teams are making to cu!'. youth violence. Sports & the Law's interview with former L.A. Raiders player Mike Davis reveals why this hero works so hard to give back to the community. In his "Coach's Column," Sports & the Law Project Director Andy Schwich reviews 's response to fame and social responsibility.

Violence in Sports: example, football, America's most popular sport, re- quires blocking, hitting, and tackling. While these ac- Why is Violence a Part of the Game? ti ies are violent and possibly criminal off the playing field, they are acceptable under the rules of Violence plays a part in professional and amateur the game. sporting events every day in America. Players taunt, spear, take cheap shots, and swing fists. To Boxing is another sport prone to violence. Former win, coaches teach dirty tactics and encourage vio- heavyweight champion Joe Frazier once said about lence. Referees sometimes let excessive play go un- an opponent: "I don't want to knock him out.I want punished. Fans yell, fight, to him, step away, and throw objects at each and watch him hurt. I other and the players. want his heart." In Television highlights the 1962, the welterweight violence on the evening championship bout be- news and in newspapers. tween Benny "Kid" Paret and Emile Griffith Violence in sports is L tee nothing new. History pro- was so brutal that it vides many examples of vi started a movement to games that were morevio- ban boxing altogether. lent than the games we On national television, Griffith pummeled play today. Boxers in an- '4 cient Greece wore no pro- Paret. Before the refe- tective gear and fought ree stopped the fight, their matches to the Griffith landed more death. The Romans went than 20 crushing blows even further and pro- Violence is a natural part of many sports, such as football and boxing. But,to Paret's head. Paret moted bloodshed as a violence also occurs in sports like baseball, where batters sometimes rush slumped unconscious . Thou- the mound after being hit by a pitch. (UPI/Bettman.) against the ropes and sands of gladiators fought to the death in Roman later died from his inju- ries. A string of ring deaths followed Paret's death, arenas. The ancient Mayans and Aztecs played a causing several states to consider abolishing boxing. ball game in which the losing team's was be- headed. The native North Americans played baggat- Violence in sports is not limited to football and away, a predecessor to the modern game of lacrosse, boxing, but exists in other popular sports such as which often left broken bones, bloodied bodies, and hockey, baseball, , and soccer. In many of death in its wake. these games, some contact is necessary and accept- able within the rules. But it is often difficult to distin- Even though sports violence has existed since guish between violence and normal rough-and- early recorded history, people are beginning to exam- tumble play. The line often blurs between foul and ine the problem more closely. To understand the fair play. problem and come up with possible solutions, it is im- portant to consider the many factors that may con- A second factor that contributes to sports violence tribute to violence in sports. is the pressure to win. As career opportunities and First, violence is a natural part of many sports. pay expand, competition grows. Some players will Contact sports are especially prone to violence. For do almost anything to win. In the quest for victory, violence becomes glorified in the minds of some great not having to worry about Lemieux.I think it players. Don Atyeo, a prominent sports author, certainly helped us [win]." wrote in his book Blood and Guts: "It is the over- Referees, like coaches, can encourage sports vio- whelming pressure to win at all costs that lies at the lence. Referees often ignore overtly aggressive play. heart of the escalating level of violence within the Tackles, blocks, body checks, and other legal blows games themselves. When the single-minded pursuit are acceptable forms of contact. But officials some- of victory is wedded to the games of physical con- times tolerate aggression that the rules prohibit. The tact, violence is the inevitable result . . . " hockey fist fight, late hitting in football, high tackling Intimidation, domination, and revenge often enter in soccer, and the brush-back pitch in baseball have into a player's mind. Some athletes visualize their op- been ignored by referees and umpires. Especially in ponents as beasts. This allows them to act aggres- playoff and championship games, referees tend tc sively without attaching any feelings of responsibility or concern for another human being. Many athletes admit they develop ha- tred for their opponents. Vince Lombardi, former coaching great of the , said, 'To play this game you must have fire in you, and nothing stokes fire like hate." As athletes feel pressure to be stronger and faster, some turn to drugs. The abuse of both legal and illegal painkillers, stimulants, and anabolic steroids is a major concern in sports today. Some people believe that drug abuse increases the level of violence in Fans contribute to sports-related violence. In 1993 after Montreal won the National today's games. Hockey League championship, riots broke out in downtown Montreal. Coaches also contribute to the problem (UPI/Bettman.) of violence in sports. Aggressive behavior is employ a "let the players determine the outcome" often learned on the practice field where players will philosophy, and are less strict in calling penalties. do anything to please their coach. Many coaches fa- Spectators may also contribute to sports-related vor players with a "killer instinct." Harvard psychia- violence. Fans send messages of approval to players trist Chester M. Pierce states, 'The coach must have when they cheer "bone crushing" hits and raucous his men feeling that they not only can kill but that brawls. Sports psychologist Jeffrey Goldstein of Tem- they should kill." ple University has found that "people watching an ag- Some coaches admit that there is little regard for gressive sport are likely to become aggressive safety or respect for the opposing team, even in prac- themselves. . .they sense or see aggression and tice. In fact, aggressiveness is often the primary attrib- then they act aggressively." It is not uncommon for ute that coaches look for in a player. Since coaches riots to occur after soccer matches in Europe and are under great pressure to win at any cost, encour- South America, resulting in thousands of injuries and aging violence becomes a means to that . Coach deaths. Sports-related riots have occurred in the Lombardi coined the popular phrase, "Winning is not United States as well. After the Bulls won everything, it's the only thing." the NBA championship in 1991, thousands of crazed Coaches' obsession with winning may even cause fans took to the streets in violent celebration. them to direct violent activity at certain opposing Sporting events can also contribute to domestic players. As reported in , during the violence. Statistics show that violence against 1992 Playoffs between the women increases on . On that and , Rangers day, a woman is beaten every 15 seconds, according Coach Roger Neilson instructed his team to "be to the Coalition of Battered Women's Advocates. physical" with Penguins star Mario Lemieux. In The Los Angeles Police Department sets up a special game two of the series, Adam Graves of the Rangers domestic abuse hot line in response to the increase dealt Lemieux a blow that broke his left hand and of assaults on women during the $upei Bowl. knocked him out of the playoffs. Speaking about Finally, television plays an important rose in the pro- Lemieux's broken hand, Coach Neilson stated: "It's motion of violence in sports. Television coverage 4 tends to highlight violent behavior on the field. With Ciccarelli of the was the first the advent of instant replay, these images are played NHL player to go to jail for an on-ice assault. Cic- over and over again in living rooms across the coun- carelli hit Luke Richardson of the Maple try.In order to be featured in the highlights of a Leafs several times in the head with his stick. Richard- game, players learn they must play aggressively. Net- son received no injuries, thanks to the protection of works claim that these highlights draw large audi- his helmet. Ciccarelli was sent to jail for a day. ences and that they are only broadcasting what the Ciccarelli's behavior was not uniquely aggressive, public demands. but the judge in the case wanted to send a message Reducing violence in sports will be a difficult task to the NHL: Violence in hockey would no longer be to accomplish. In contact sports, it is virtually impos- acceptable to society. Even with the short sentence, sible to eliminate all violence from the game. In re- some people were upset with the outside interfer- cent years, however, several attempts have been ence of the judicial system. Traditionally, police and made to decrease violence. These have included bet- the courts had not enforced the laws in hockey ter safety equipment, more league-imposed penal- arenas. Moreover, Ciccarelli had previously been pe- ties, and occasional nalized internally by legal action. the NHL and served Better safety a 10-game suspen- equipment has de- sion. Some thought veloped over the his suspension was years. Today most sufficient punish- athletes wear pro- ment. Others dis- tective gear. But agreed, believing sports-related inju- that criminal interven- ries are still com- tion in sports was monplace. Each IN long overdue. In the year thousands of face of so many inju- professional and ries, they argued, amateur players suf- sports should not be fer torn ligaments, exempt from the laws that govern our shattered bones, Sports violence seldom results in criminal charges against athletes. On-ice assaults in and even paralysis. hockey, for example, are rarely pursued inthe courts. (UPl/Bettrnan.) everyday behavior. Some observers be- Another violent on- lieve that protective gear actually has madeathletes the-court incident that landed in civil court involved more aggressive. This is because players develop a the NBA. In 1977, Rudy Tomjanovich of the Hous- false sense of invincibility. ton Rockets received serious injuries from a punch Most recommendations for reducing violence in by Kermit Washington of the . sports have focused on greater self-regulation, such Tomjanovich tried to break up a fight between Wash- as increasing penalties, fines, and suspensions for ex- ington and another Rocket player. Washington cessive violence. Both the NBA and the NHL have in- threw a punch at Tomjanovich, who receiveda frac- stituted strict anti-fighting rules in an attempt to tured skull, nose, and jaw; a brain concussion; facial reduce violence. scratches; leakage of spinal fluid; and other serious Few people have looked to the courts to decrease complications. The legal defense argued that vio- sports violence. Legally, sports violence has usually lence is inherent in the game: This type of injury was been considered different or in a "world of its own" part of the risk of playing professional basketball. and therefore exempt from criminal charges. Violent The court disagreed, found Washington's actionsex- assaults that would be illegal under the general law cessive, and awarded Tomjanovich $3.3 million for of the land are commonly accepted by sports authori- his injuries. ties. Athletes often believe they are free to act vio- Courts are more willing to intervene and regulate lently on the playing field wit...out serious high school or college sports because they feel a consequences. greater sense of responsibility for amateur athletes. Thus, criminal charges for on-the-field conduct are High school coaches have been held responsible for rarely pursued, and when they are, they are usually directing injured athletes to play and for failing-to in- unsuccessful. Most of the cases that have gone to struct on safety techniques. criminal court involve NHL players. In 1988, Dino Violence in sports is a complicated issue because Situations: there are many contributing factors. Since some 1.Alex is a professional tennis player who has been sports are inherently violent, it will be difficult to com- known to throw her racket when angry. The um- pletely eliminate all violence. But other factors also pire has warned Alex to stop this behavior. Dur- enter into the equation. Athletes want to win at all ing the match, Alex cannot return a smashing costs. Coaches teach aggressive behavior. Referees serve. In disgust, Alex thro, her racket.It look the other way when it occurs. Spectators cheer bounces and injures a line judge. Alex claims that it. The media broadcasts it. What can be done to de- she was upset, but says she did not intend to hit crease the violence in sports? Most current efforts anyone with her racket. have focused on improving safety equipment, in- 2. Terry plays receiver for a professional football creasing league-imposed penalties, and taking legal team. The ball is thrown to Terry who catches it action. In order to significantly decrease sports vio- and is tackled hard by Dale. Terry gets up and lence, it will take the combined effort of everyone in- hits Dale in the back of the head causing Dale to volved to take responsibility for their part in the fall to the ground. In faring, Dale twists his knee equation. and cannot play for the rest of the season. Terry admits acting out of frustration and anger, but For Discussion says he did not intend to injure Dale. 1.What factors do you think lead to violence in 3. Sandy is a pitcher for an amateur baseball team. sports? Which do you think is the most impor- In the second inning Sandy pitches to Casey who tant? hits a . In the fifth inning Sandy pitches 2. Should more violence be allowed in professional a fast ball to Casey that hits him in the elbow. than amateur sports? Why or why not? Casey rushes the mound and starts a fight with Sandy. Casey suffers a bruised elbow and misses 3. What, if anything, do you think should be done the next couple of games. Sandy has a few about violence in sports? bruises. Sandy says he did not intend to hit Casey; he says it was merely a wild pitch. Activity Divide the class into small groups of four to five 4. Pat plays second base in an amateur softball league. Tracy is on first base and runs to second members. Each group will take one of three roles base when a teammate hits a grounder toward and rule on the six situations below. After each Pat. Pat picks up the ball, tags second base, and group decides, regroup the class and discuss the deci- throws to first base to make a double-play. Tracy sions. continues to run at Pat who is now standing five ROLE 1: You are referees or umpires at each sport- feet in front of second base. Tracy collides with ing event. Decide in each situation whether the ath- Pat and hits Pat in the chin, breaking Pat's jaw. lete should be penalized immediately. You have the Tracy says that she ran at Pat to try to obstruct her view of first base. power to expel the athlete from the game or penal- ize the team. For example, in a football game you 5.Leslie plays forward for a professional soccer could give a yardage or in a basketball game team. Several times during the game, Leslie has you could call a foul. rushed the goalie. Once she was yellow carded for unsportsmanlike conduct. Once again, Leslie ROLE 2: You are the governing body of each league, gets the ball near the . The goalie dives and such as the or the National grabs the bail. While the goalie lies on the Hockey League. Decide in each situation whether ground covering the ball, Leslie keeps driving in. the athlete shouk be penalized after the fact for vio- She kicks the goalie several times. The goalie suf- lating the rules of the game. You have the power to fers three broken ribs and can not play the rest of fine the player or the team, suspend the player from the season. future games, or expel the player from the league. 6. Jaime and Corey are professional play- ROLE 3: You are criminal prosecutors. Decide in ers. During a skirmish to get control of the puck, each situation whether the athlete should be charged Jaime pushes Corey into the boards. Corey re- with the crime of assault and battery. The definition sponds by tripping Jaime with his stick. When of assault and battery is any unlawful touching of an- Jaime gets up, he skates toward Corey. A fight en- sues. Corey needs 10 stitches above his eye and other which is without justification or excuse. A per- Jaime has a sore back. Neither player has to miss son need not physically touch another but may any games, iue to his injuries. cause an object to touch a second person. 6 series, he almost single-handedly beat the Dodgers with a tremendous display of the five skills that scouts look for in a ball playerthrowing, fielding, By "Coach" Andy Schwich base running, hitting for average, and hitting for Sports & the Law Program Director powet. I have watched Orel Hershiser pitch on several oc- Orel Hershiser casions, however, the first time left the most lasting impression.It was in 1988 on a cold September Orel Hershiser, pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodg- night, typical of Candlestick Park in San Francisco. ers, is one of the few major-league baseball play- The Dodgers and Giants were locked in a tight divi- ers who has served on the same team for more than sion race and ace Orel Hershiser was heduled to 10 years. Service is a word that is synonymous with pitch. Hershiser was working on a remarkable re- Orel Hershiser, on and off the playing field. cord-setting string of consecutive scoreless innings and shutouts. In 1993, Orel was nominated by the Dodgers for major-league baseball's Roberto Clemente Award, Dressed in ski clothes, I found my field-level seat which is presented annually to the player who best down the third-base line. Ten feet in front of me, just represents the game both beyond the railing, stood on and off the field. The Hershiser, slowly warming award is named for Cle- up with some soft tosses. mente, a Hall of Fame out- While watching Orel com- fielder with the Pittsburgh plete his pre-game Pirates, who was killed in a routine, it became obvi- plane crash while deliver- ous to me why Dodger ing supplies to earthquake had nicknamed him "Bull- victims in Nicaragua in 1;- 1972. Asa player, dog."I marveled at his Roberto Clemente shared concentration and determi- the spotlight with such all- nation.I was astounded time greats as by his ability to hit the 's target with every and Henry Aaron. As a hu- A go. manitarian, this native of pitch. Most important, I Puerto Rico was in a was ecstatic that I didn't league of his own in his ef- have to face Hershiser on forts to advance Latinos in that chilly night.I actually major-league baseball and felt sorry for the Giants' to provide opportunities x'"hitters who did. for youngsters. Orel succeeded in shut- Both Clemente and Her- ting out the Giants.. at shiser will be remembered night and proceeded to for magnificer perform- pitch 59 consecutive ances in the . scoreless innings, a major- In the minds of many base- league record. His 23 vic- ball fans, Clemente's per- tories in the regular formance in the 1971 Fall season led the Dodgers to Classic was the greatest all- the 1988 division title. © Copyright 1993Los Angeles Dodgers, Inc. around exhibition in modern World Series history. Orel's mastery continued He not only hit .414 with two home runs, but his into the post-season as the Dodgers captured the Na- base running and outfield play propelled the Pirates tional League pennant and World Series champion- to victory over the in seven games. ship. He received the 's In the , Hershiser was voted Most Award, which is given annually to the outstanding Valuable Player after he recorded two wils in the pitcher in each league. Dodgers' victory over the heavily favored Oakland It has often been said that a person's true charac- A's. In game five, he clinched the crown for the ter shows in times of adversity. Orel Hershiser was Dodgers with his second complete game of the se- put to the test in 1989 after major reconstructive sur- ries. gery on his right shoulder. While he worked hard to I had the opportunity to watch both Roberto Cle- overcome this career-threatening injury to his pitch- mente and Orel Hershiser play baseball.I saw Cle- ing arm, he became more involved with several chari- mente during the summer of 1970. In a four-game table community organizations and events. Orel's (Continued on page 10.) 7 Reaching Out For the Long Run r

T os Angeles professional teams make a different 4. L kind of "assist" when they reach beyond the play- ing field. The Kings and the Ducks, the Clippers and the Lakers, the Rams and the Raiders are all making a serious, long-term bid to assist some of their most en- AL- thusiastic fans. . .the young people of L.A. 4' Matthew Valenzuela, age 12, heads for the Hollenbeck Youth Center most afternoons. Hollenbeck is close to Matthew's home, and walking distance from school. Matthew de- scribes his neighborhood as "rough," ruled by gangs and taggers. At Hollenbeck, he can play basketball, volleyball, and football with his friends in what he describes as "a positive environment." "It's tough to avoid the gangs and taggers," says Matthew, "but the center gives me something to do instead." Over the years, many young people have benefit- , - ted from the generosity and concern of prominent Magic Johnson takes some time out from his busy schedule with his traveling team to speak to some Sports & the Law students from Long sports figures. 1960's Olympic track star Rafer Beach Jordan. (CRF photo.) Johnson, boxer Muhammed Ali, and "sketball he- roes Magic Johnson and Michael Jet are just a young males under the age of 25.Violence is not few sports celebrities who have poured passion, new to America. Since the days of the frontier, time, and money back into the neighborhoods that Americans have often settled issues with a gun. But cheered them to victory. today, our youth seem more vulnerable than ever. Many pro sports )rganizations take advantage of Since the 1980s, the ravages of drug addiction their place in the spotlight to sponsor fundraisers. and violence caused by competition among drug For example, in the fall of 1993, the Mighty Ducks dealers have taken a high toll on young people. and the Kings joined showbiz personalities to play an Youthful unemployment and homelessness have exhibition hockey game. Proceeds went to benefit brought kids at risk into painful focus for many Ameri- the victims of the recent brush fires in Orange and cans. The riots that swept through Los Angeles after Los Angeles counties. the Rodney King beating trial demonstrated the frus- Gary Bettman, NHL Commissioner, described L.A. tration and anger felt by many young people. As the hockey's response to the fires. "NHL players have a angry fires cooled, several pro teams joined with strong tradition of community service. Our athletes community-based police efforts, the Los Angeles Uni- will always give more when it's needed. We are fied School District, and local businesses to extend a proud to support their efforts helping the victims of helping hand. The goal: to develop service programs this terrible tragedy." that might really address the hopes, fears, dreams, and needs of children neglected for too long. Tough Times in Los Angeles Trigger a Different Kind of Response The Steve Swayne, community relations director, Los An- L.A. has suffered civil unrest, fires, floods, even geles Clippers, has said: "The Clippers realize that their earthquakes. Individual athletes and pro teams have success is dependant upon the support of the commu- often been there to help. But fran- nity and the fans. It is a priority and an obligation for chises are also looking long and hard at a different the Clippers to give back to their supporters." kind of crisis. Tough times have fallen on many of America's youth. Neglect, abuse, and violence most According to Swayne, drugs, guns, and violence often strike first and hardest at the people who are are issues of great concern to the Clippers. Repre- sentatives from the Clippers meet regularly with local America's biggest sports fans. . . youngpeople. educators, business and community leaders, police, This year, juvenile homicide has surpassed teen and social service experts. They discuss how the pregnancy as America's greatest youth problem. Clippers can deal with some of the problems that Sixty percent of all violent crimes are committed by kids are struggling with in Los Angeles. Here are a The few of the projects that came out of these meetings: After the Los Angeles riots in May 1992, two L.A. Neighborhood Pride: ARCO petroleum and the Rams football players stepped forward to support Los Angeles Clippers have teamed up to repair peacemaking efforts between two Los Angeles street and maintain 30 basketball courts in the Los Ange- gangs, the Crips and the Bloods. and les area. The goal is to provide L.A. youth with Robert Bailey toured South Central neighborhoods safe places to play. with L.A. gang members and learned firsthand what it is like to live under the instant threat of violence. Stay in School: Working closely with Vons and Lyght and Baily never forgot what they learned. Both Nabisco, the Clippers have established Stay in players have returned many times to the neighbor- School programs in 75 schools in Compton and hood to support L.A. gangs in their efforts to stop the Los Angeles. Next year, the Clippers plan to bring violence. Stay in School to 500 junior high schools from Other Rams players maintain a close tie with the Pasadena to Long Beach. First AME Church in South Central. They donate Midnight Basketball League: This is a unique pro- money annually to the Christmas Fund and sponsor gram to keep %/r- 'ngsters off the streets at night. the Feliz Navidad program where players and cheer- Aided by L.A. AR, the Clippers keep the doors leaders provide entertainment and give away free open and the Hots on at numerous L.A. basketball toys and food. The Rams fund raise and donate courts from 8 p.m. until 3 a.m. to offer a healthy money to the Anaheim Police Department to help alternative to the mean streets. fund youth crime and drug prevention programs. The Rams also contribute to the Youth Education The Clippers are also hoping to provide a "Guns Town run by the National Football League in Comp- for Tickets" program in which people can exchange ton. weapons for free tickets to Clippers games. The Los Angeles Raiders Gil Hernandez, a spokesperson for the L.A. Raid- ers, believes that the economy puts many L.A. kids at risk. "A major problem today is the inability to make income, particularly at the lower socio-economic level of society." Hernandez feels that many doors are closed to poor youngsters, so they search for other ways to be successful. "They look to be ac- cepted by someone, and gangs will usually accept them," he said. lbw The L.A. Raiders believe they can help stop the vio- lence by promoting positive alternatives for youth. "The Raiders have a tough and mean image on the The Los Angeles Raiders believe they can help stop the violence by field, but off the field, the players are responsible law- promoting positive alternatives for youth. Gil Hernandez, public abiding citizens who play by the rules. The Raiders' relations executive for the Raiders, speaks to a group of students during logo stands for poise and excellence, not lawbreak- a Sports & the Law conference. (Andrew Costly /CRF photo.) ing." The Los Angeles Lakers Hernandez described some of the Raider efforts to The Los Angeles Lakers joined forces with Ralphs grapple with critical L.A. youth concerns: education, supermarkets, McDonald's, and radio station 92.3 drug use, gang violence, and vandalism. ("THE BEAT") to urge L.A. youngsters to stay in school Raiders Educational Support Program: Hernan- and complete their high school education. Students dez and the Raiders tour schools all over Califor- pick up Stay In School report cards at local businesses. nia, urging young fans to set scholastic goals and They must stay in school for 30 consecutive days and gain self-confidence. display a good attitude to receive a "passing grade." A student who submits a report card will receive a certifi- Raiders Community Youth Support Programs: cate, a gift discount card, and a chance to attend a Working with the L.A. Board of Education, the huge Lakers' Stay in School Jam, full of basketball stars, Raiders help sponsor several organizations that are recording artists, and prizes. striving to deter gang activity. For example, the Raiders work with the Gang Risk Intervention Pro- 9 ject as it reaches out to elementary school kids to cious playing field. "At any given time, Monday convince them to stay out of gangs. through Thursday," Davis says, "we have six to eight tutors to assist the kids...We're prepared to teach any The Raiders also support anti-drug, anti-vandalism, subjects from A to Z, just as long as the kids bring and AIDS awareness programs that promote good their textbooks. That's the price of admission. You health habits, address some of the underlying must bring homework, and you must bring a text- causes of tagging and youthful drug addiction, and book." offer the prospects of shelter and healing to at-risk youth. Most important, Mike Davis and his dedicated staff have long-term plans for the kids who come to L.A. Teams Sponsor Long-Term Efforts to Youth Education Town. "Instead of an F or a D, you Support Young L.A. Fans see a B or an A. I feel really good about that. But I'm Mike Davis is a former player with the L. A. Raid- quick to tell the staffHey, we're only into the first ers. Today, Davis keeps a five minutes of the ball- busy schedule as executive game. Our success director of Youth Education will come when we Town, a well-equipped edu- have these kids ac- cation and recreation cen- cepted into college. ter located in South Central Then we'll feel good Los Angeles. Mike spoke aboutthings." to Sports & the Law about Another long-term the center and why he project to help young works with young people. people is the Hollen- He remembered an inci- beck Youth Center, lo- dent from high school that cated in Boyle influenced him: "Hall of Heights near Dodgers Famer Willie Davis came Stadium. Since its be- out and spoke to our high Duane Cooper of the Los Angeles Lakers contributed to the success of theginning in 1976, the first annual "Junior High lam" in1992. (Andrew Costly/CRF Photo) school football team. Mr. L.A. Dodgers have sup-

Davis spoke strictly on the value of an education. I ported the center's efforts to provide opportunities wanted to be like him and give to the community." and a safe haven for East Los Angeles youngsters. [See "Interview With Mike Davis," pg.131 Sports & the Law spoke with young Manuel Galle- After a fulfilling career on the playing field, Davis gos at the Youth Center. Boxing takes up a lot of coached at Cal State University Long Beach. "Every Manuels' time. After a rigorous training session at time I would come to the inner city,I would see the Hollenbeck Youth Center, Manual has time only these magnificent athletes. Unfortunately, we to shower, eat dinner, do his homework, and go to couldn't touch them. . .They didn't have a grade bed. Manual hopes to fight in his first amateur fight point average strong enough." Davis had athletic soon. He likes his new-found sport because it gives scholarships dedicated to the inner city, but he him a chance to vent his frustrations and anger posi- couldn't give them out to players who were so weak tively. He likes working out at Hollenbeck because academically. When Davis took a look at the gen- it is free and close to his home. eral student population, he saw that many students Manuel's trainer, Ruben Palmerro, constantly en- needed help. courages youngsters like Manuel to stay away from When the National Football League approached the bad influences of gangs and taggers, and to work Davis to run Youth Education Town, Davis set out to hard in the ring and at school. Neighborhood gangs design a program that would motivate kids to deal and taggers have put heavy pressure on Manuel to with life in the 90s. Today, YET offers fully integrated join their ranks Boxing at the center gives him an al- academic, athletic, job training, and community serv- ternative. "If more of the kids in the neighborhood ice programs. It helps kids develop practical skills got involved in the activities offered at the center, and motivates them to care about their families, their there would be less gangs and taggers." friends, and their community. The Hollenbeck Youth Center shows that building The NFL, 40 corporate sponsors, the United Way, self-respect and self-reliance is the best way to help and several showbiz personalities have contributed at-risk youth. The center offers indoor sports, such as to the opening of a Youth Education library, a com- basketball, volleyball, weightlifting, karate, and box- puter lab, a media center, a fitness room, and a spa- ing. Baseball, soccer, track, and swimming are also offered through the center. Hollenbeck is oper. to the long run, to some of L.A.'s greatest sports fans... neighborhood c.-ilidren seven days a week. The train- the young people. ing is excellent: The Hollenbeck boxing program has sent boxers to the '84 and '88 Olympics. For Discussion The Hollenbeck Youth Center doesn't try to "cor- 1.Name some problems young people face in soci- rect" frustrated youngsters.It simply offers them ety today. What do you think is America's great- sports and community-supported programs. Team est youth problem today? sports replace gangs by teaching kids how to de- 2. Gil Hernandez of the L.A. Raiders uses the words "at risk" to describe some Los Angeles young- pend on each other. . . and themselves. When kids start believing in themselves, they can begin to sters. What do you think "at risk" means? lead productive lives and take advantage of the op- 3. What causes some young people to be "at risk"? portunities that society has to offer. 4. How do individual athletes and sports organiza- Like the NFL's Youth Education Town, Hollenbeck tions reach out to young people? What efforts do is a strong example of a youth center that draws you think are the most effective at helping young people? Why? from every corner of the community--the police, busi- ness, concerned citizens, and professional athletic or- 5. Do athletes and professional sports organizations ganizationsto provide a strong resource for inner-city have a responsibility to the fans and the communi- youngsters. Most important, Hollenbeck has a history ties that support them? Why or why not? and a future. Like so many of L.A.'s professional sports organizations, The and the Hollen- beck Youth Center are committed to reaching out for ."-c"rw' crilt 1414.4..;. GOALS Lessons la' P:41:417.4.4er World Cup USA 1994 and Constitutional Rights Foundation (sponsors of Sports & ; the Law) have joined together to create "The GOALS Program": Self-contained lessons for mid- dle schools that emphasize participation in aca- ;.en. demics, athletics, and community service. Please

s feel free to use these lessons on pages 11 and 12 to stimulate and motivate your students to reach their GOALS. See back page for information on The Los Angeles Dodgers have long supported the Hollenbeck Youth Center's efforts to provide opportunities for youngsters. Mike Shaperson how to get a free copy of "The GOALS Program." and of the Dodgers speak to students at the 1992 Inner City Games, an event sponsored by Hollenbeck. (Photo by Kiki Cordoza.)

COACH'S COLUMN... determination to achieve success. Orel Hershiser rec- ognizes that through hard work and determination commitment to civic participation has continued, young people can be given the opportunities to fulfill even after he made a miraculous return to the pitch- their dreams. Like Roberto Clemente before him, ing mound in 1991, after an absence of almost two Orel Hershiser has achieved stardom both on and off years. the playing field. Hershiser has worked with Cystic Fibrosis Founda- tion (CF) for si; years and since 1990 has chaired an For Discussion annual golf tournament to benefit CF. He is the foun- 1.What is the Roberto Clemente Award? Why is it der and president of the James Patrick Jarrin Scholar- named after Roberto Clemente? ship Foundation in Los Angeles, which annually presents scholarships to five local Latino high school 2. Why did the Dodgers nominate Orel Hershiser for students. He is also actively involved in the I-Care this award? Hotline. 3. What do you think sports figures can do to help Young people dream of the syccess that Orel Her- the community? shiser has enjoyed in his career. They must recog- nize that it takes a lot of hard work and LISTENINGResolving Conflict

With a quick move, you steal the ball from the opposing player and dribble downfield fo the shot that will put your 0...- team ahead. Suddenly, you come crashing to the ground as the opponent tackles you from behind. You get up off the groi. rid, and you realize you are face-to-face with the offender. What will you do? Unsportsmanlike conduct in sports is often the result of a con- flict. A conflict is a disagreement between two or more persons or groups. Since everyone experiences conflict everyday at home, in school, at work and at play, it is important to learn differ- ent ways of resolving conflict. Every sport has penalties for unsportsmanlike conduct. If a player acts in an unsportsmanlike manner, referees can call penalties. In soccer, for example, a yellow card is a warning given to a player for unsportsmanlike conduct and a red card is used for re- moving or ejecting a player from the game. Referees are not available to settle the disputes that arise in our daily lives. Therefore, many people learn to use a process known as compromise. A compromise is an agree- ment that is reached between two people or groups where each side gives in a little bit in order to reach an agreement. Often, just talking it over and listening to the otherperson is enough to bring about compromise and an end to the conflict. One of the best ways to resolve a conflict is to problem-solve, much like you do in math or science. When you problem-solve, it means that you know you have a conflict and you want to work it out by talking with, and listening to, the other person. If you can learn to problem-solve, you can become a STAR:

SStop and ask yourself what just happened.

T. Think about what theperson did or said to make you angry. AAct by peacefully speakingup for yourself.

RReact to the problem by offeringa suggekion.

The next time a conflict arises, on or off the field, try to find differentways of resolving that conflict. In sports and in life, being able to resolve conflict is an iioportant skill in be- coming a good sport and, most importantly, a good citizen.

BE A STAR! 12 CIVIC PARTICIPATION Responsibility .

How many times have you seen an atnlete endorse a product on TV? The high profile and visibility of athletes, especially American professional athletes, puts them into the spotlight. As a result, many fans see them as role models. Role models are those people others choose to follow. To many young people, ath- letes serve as a guide and as a source of inspiration. Whether they choose it or not, athletes carry a re- sponsibility to themselves, their teams, and their fans. On the field or court, determination and excellence can motivate others to strive for and achieve success in sports and life. Good role models excel not only on the playing field, but off the field as well. Many ath- letes work in community programs such as education, drug intervention, or crime preven- tion. They don't participate in these programs for money or publicity but out of a sense of commitment and responsibility to their communities. Everyone is not a famous athlete, but that does not mean that we do not carry our own special responsibilities. As citizens of the United States, we have a responsibility to our- selves, our community, and to our government. Good citizenship means active participa- tion and responsibility in school and in the community. With growing problems in our communities, the need for civic involvement has increased. It is important to realize that everyone can become actively involved in community serv- ice. Helping someone in the community not only brings a strong sense of satisfaction and success, but it can also provide you with skills and experience that will be useful for a life- time. For Discussion

1. What athletes have become popular as a result of endorsements? Why do you think these particular athletes were chosen for endorsements? 2. What professionals, other than athletes, would you consider to be role models for young people? Do you think that these professionals are more important in society than athletes? 3. What are some of the problems that your school faces? What are some of the problems that your community faces? How can we, as good citizens, become involved in solutions to these problems? 4. What kinds of organizations have been established in your school or community to encourage civic participation?

V 13 WHAT DO YOU THINK? INTERVIEW WITH 1" MIKE DAVIS

"I'm a kid from South Central Los Angeles who had some breaks and had some guidance along the way and had support of my family.If I can achieve what I have achieved and seize opportunities after opportuni- ties, then I'm in a position to show others how to do that very thing."

he Raiders have always been known for the qual- ity of their players in the defensive backfield. Mike Davis contributed to this reputation as a Raid- ers' starting strong safety and a key member of 1981 (Los Angeles Raiders) and 1984 Super Bowl championship teams. After a We wanted to come up with a program that could playing career of 12 years and several years of col- help these kids get motivated and adjust to what it's lege coaching, Mike now serves as the executive di- going to take to compete in the 90s. That is, a sup- rector of the National Football League's Youth plementary education to get them to understand that Education Town (YET) in Compton. He recently they're competing in the classroom. If the: can com- shared his thoughts on academics, athletics, and civic pete in the classroom, they can compete nationally participation with Sports & the Law. and worldwide. S&L:As you were growing up, what inspired you to S&L:What are some of the specific programs that succeed? you offer the students at YET? MD:I always found the key is to have role models MD:We feel that a strong mind and a strong body and to see positive actions by the people who are in are essentials for a strong life. Everything we do is the spotlight.I know that I benefited from that when strategically designed to motivate the kids, to spur I was growing up. Hall of Famer Willie Davis spoke their interest to going on to the next level of educa- to our high school football team.I was expecting to tion or identifying a vocational pursuit. We offer a hear a Vince Lombardi type of delivery on sports, but complete after-school program where they can ac- Mr. Davis spoke strictly on the value of an educa- quire vast knowledge and skills. We offer a home- tion. That, in itself, spurred me to go on, because I work assistance program, a tutorial assistance pro- wanted to be like him and give to the community. gram, computer literacy, and computer orientation. S&L:As executive directive of NFL Youth Education We're prepared to teach any subject from A to Z just Town, why do you believe the YET program is so im- as long as the kids bring their textbooks. That's the portant? price of admission. You must bring homework and you must bring a textbook. MD:Taking this assignment was something I could We also have a health education and physical edu- not turn down morally.I coached at Cal State Uni- cation component. We teach the kids about careers -versity Long Beach and at Eastern Michigan Univer- that can be derived from physical education and sity. Each coaching staff asked me to recruit in the in- health education. The entire program is mandatory. ner city. Every time I would come to the inner city, I You can't come here and just do the weights. Our would see these magnificent athletes. Unfortunately, sports program has taken off. We had a taste of com- we couldn't touch them simply because they didn't petition this last summer with Sports & the Law's Jun- have the required classes or a grade-point average ior High Jam. We have a lot of kids who ask us strong enough. about that program, who want to come back. We 14 plan on fielding a basketball team, both men and For Discussion women, and expanding our sports program into soc- cer and baseball. 1. What inspired Mike Davis to get involved in help- ing his community? S&L: What does teamwork mean to you and what 2. Do you know of anyone in your community who importance does it serve at YET? is involved in helping it? Why do you think peo- MD: Teamwork is a commitment within yourself to ple work to help their communities? help achieve goals. Without teamwork you don't 3. How does Youth Education Town (YET) in Comp- know what the other person is doing. You don't de- ton make a contribution to the community? velop a sense of security and confidence within your- 4. What kind of youth programs do you think would self or your neighbor.If you operate as a unit, you help your community? can achieve more goals. Plus, you learn more. I've been asked, why do I keep my cool all of the time?I tell the kids, "Be conscientious and be re- spectful. Be a critical thinker so that you can make in- formed decisions." And with that we see that the teamwork pays off. We often ask the kids for input on how to improve the program. They realize that, "Hey, we have deci- sion-making power. We are critical thinkers and we are making in- formed decisions." ,0 S&L: YET has existed less than a year; what progress have you ob- served thus far? ; MD: We just received fall-semester report cards, and we compared them to the summer report cards. In- stead of an F or a D, you see a B or an A. That's where we feel we're helping. But I'm quick to tell the staff, "Hey, we're seven months into this program and we're only into the first five minutes of the ball game." We are making a difference, but we still have a lot of ground to cover. Our success will come when these kids are accepted into college. Y. Then we'll feel good about things. S&L: What is the key to the suc- cess at YET? MD: The kids can come here for a safe haven and be at easebe corm fortablewith theirsurroundings. When that happens you see the confi- dence and the creative juices start to u flow for that child. The number one rule around here is to operate on re- spect. It's a community facility: "You break the rules and we'll enforce the Mike Davis was a key member of the Raiders' 1981 and 1984 Super Bowl championship rules." With that philosophy we have teams. Davis now channels his energy into serving as the executive director of NFL's Youth Education Town. (Los Angeles Raiders) had nothing but success. 15 GISKN KETXOBOKT 12. Los Angeles team who played an 25. The price of admission to NFL exhibition game to benefit Orange Youth Education Town is a and Los Angeles county brush-fire . (Interview) Unscramble the words above victims. (Reach Out) each clue. HECSAOC TARCICLI 26. Players often learn aggressive tac- DANAMROYT 13. Mike Davis said that in order to tics from their . (Vio- 1. At Youth Education Town, a young make informed decisions, individu- lence in Sports) person cannot participate in just als need to be one component, the entire pro- thinkers. (Interview) TADCIENUO gram is . (Interview) 27. The topic about which Hall of TSYIX Famer Willie Davis spoke to Mike RETDVASYI 14. What percentage of violent crimes Davis' high school football team. 2. "A person's true character shows at are committed by males under the (Interview) times of ." (Coach's age of 25? (Reach Out) Column) SRISHESER KESLAR 28. Last name of a major-league base- LEVONIEC 15. This Los Angeles team offers a Stay ball pitcher who has played on the 3. is present in many In School report card program. same team for more that 10 years. sports, not just football and boxing. (Reach Out) (Coach's Column) (Violence in Sports) SPEPRLCI TELECEMNT CAGRANIAU 16. The professional sports team that 29. Roberto was a na- 4. Roberto Clemente was killed assist- assists with such programs as Stay tive of Puerto Rico who worked to ing with earthquake relief in In School, Neighborhood Pride, increase the number of Latinos in

. (Coach's Col- and Midnight Basketball League. baseball. (Coach's Column) umn) (Reach Out) NEFTINIFY ECIRM GACIHOC 30. The major-league record for con- 5. Should violence in sports be consid- 17. Violence erupted in this city after secutive scoreless innings.(Coach's ered a ; or should the 1991 NBA championship Column) sports be exempt from the laws game. (Violence in Sports) that govern us? (Violence in Sports) GLUBODL BTESPINIROSLI 31. Tommy Lasorda's nickname for SARM 18. for violence in Orel Hershiser. (Coach's Column) 6. Sports team that contributes to the sports lies with everyone involved. Anaheim Police Department's drug (Violence in Sports) OYETA prevention program. (Reach Out) 32. Last name of the author who said, NFAS "It is the overwhelming pressure to JOMTNIVCOHA 19. Violence in sports is not limited to win at all costs that lies at the heart 7. Last name of athlete who sued Ker- the players, but also includes the of the escalating level of vio- mit Washington because of a who watch the lence..." (Violence in Sports) punch he threw during a game. event. (Violence in Sports) (Violence in Sports) SRADIRE SCEPERT 33. Professional sports team whose LAMEETRNEY 20. The number one rule at YET is to logo stands for poise and excel- 8. The Gang Risk Intervention Project treat others with . (Inter- lence. (Reach Out) targets this group of students. view) (Reach Out) OTERBOR DREDGORS 34. First name of the major-league WEMTAROK 21. What team supports the Hollen- baseball player who has an award 9. Mike Davis believes that beck Youth Center? (Reach Out) dedicated in his name for outstand- is important be- ing service both on and off the play- cause it develops self-confidence NIEFTEF ing field. (Coach's Column) and allows individuals to achieve 22. Unfortunately, statistics show that more goals. (Interview) on Super Bowl Sunday a woman is LICARCLECI beaten every sec- 35. Dino was the first TYE onds. (Violence in Sports) NHL player to go to jail for an on- 10. Initials for education and recrea- ice assault. (Violence in Sports) tion program in Compton. (Inter- DAMLOIBR view) 23. Last name of person who said: "To play this game you must have fire SNEPWAO in you, and nothing stokes fire like 11. The Clippers want to establish a hate." (Violence in Sports) program where people can ex- change for Clip- SVIDA pers tickets. (Reach Out) 24. Last name of the Raiders' strong safety in Super Bowl championship teams in 1981 and 1984. (Inter- view) Answers to puzzle on back page. 16 GOALS Lessons Gaining Opportunities to Sports & the Achieve Lifetime Success. Law Dinner For Middle Schools and Auction rive self-contained lessons de- rr he Sports & the Law sjgned to support the devel- 1 Dinner and Auction opment, of wellrounded individuals by focusing on was held on November 11, participation and involvement in academics, athlet- 1993. The annual fund- ics, and community service (see page 10). Lesson raiser honors individuals in plans contains objectives, materials needed, sports and business who ex- teacher's instructions, and supplemental activities. emplify sportsmanship and citizenship.Southern Please send written request for your copy to, Gas Company was presented with the GOALS Lessons--Sports & the Law, Constitutional Community Service Award. received Rights Foundation, 601 South King ley Drive, Los Ange- the Commitment to Youth in Sports Award, while les, CA 90005. and received the Created by World Cup USA 1994 and Constitu- Sports & the Law Awards.Sports & the Law would tional Rights Foundation (sponsors of Sports & the like to thank everyone who contributed to the suc- Law). cess of the event.

ANSWERS TO PUZZLE

1. MANDATORY 2. ADVERSITY 3. VIOLENCE 4. NICARAGUA 5. CRIME 6. RAMS 7. TOM IANOVICH 8. ELEMENTARY 9. TEAMWORK 10. YET 11. WEAPONS 12. KINGS 13. CRITICAL 14. SIXTY 15. LAKERS 16. CLIPPERS 17. CHICAGO 8. RESPONSIBILITY 19. FANS 20. RESPECT 21. DODGERS 22. FIFTEEN 23. LOMBARDI 24. DAVIS 25. TEXTBOOK 26. COACHES 27. EDUCATION 28. HERSHISER 29. CLEMENTE 30. FIFTYNINE 31. BULLDOG 32. ATEYO 33. RAIDERS 34. ROBERTO 35. CICCARELLI

THE SPORTS & THE LAW PROGRAM Non Profit Org. This newsletter is provided to schools as part of Constitutional Rights Foundation's U.S. Postage Sports & the Law Program. Sports & the Law draws on young people's natural inter- PAID est in sports to stimulate their involvement in education. The program provides Los Angeles, Calif. teacher training, lesson plans, a textbook and accompanying videotape, an annual Permit #25777 conference, and classroom visits by sports and legal professionals.

NOTE TO DEPARTMENT CHAIRS: If you receive multiple copies of this newsletter, please distribute throughout your department. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS FOUNDATION 601 South Kingsley Drive Los Angeles, CA 90005

Knox Cologne, President; Alan Friedman, Immediate Past President; David Laufer and George Short, Co-Chairs, Advisory Council; Todd Clark, Executive Director; Kathleen Kirby, Education Director; Marshall Croddy, Director of Program and Materials Development; Lisa Friedman, Asso- ciate Director of Program and Materials Development; Andy Schwich, Program Director; Arnel Capinpin, Program Assistant; Charles Degelman, Bill Hayes, Editors; Charles Degelman, Tim Kawahara, Nancy Lewis, Writers. Andrew Costly, Desktop Publishing.Reviewed by Daniel H. Wil- lick, CRF Publications Committee.