You can have my seat

I am not a spectator primarily because I’d rather be doing something than watch others do it. I know I’m in the minority for sports. It also applies to musical performances. You can add pornography for that matter.

Today’s newspaper validates my reluctance to partake of the bleachers. Item number one concerns the Miami University student who was ejected from a football game for repeated refusing to remove his American Indian headdress. His explanation was that he wore it to show school spirit. Yeah, like that isn’t transparent. Just the kind of wingnut I want to sit next to.

The RedHawks haven’t been the Redskins in 13 years, probably predating his awareness of the school. Now don’t get the idea I was on the bandwagon for the name change. Teams pick a mascot to symbolize some positive attribute they aspire to. It’s an homage. You don’t see the St. Louis Thieves, Chicago Arsonists or the Miami Telemarketers.

A spokesperson for the university said that their policy is that any American Indian imagery must be used with respect. No mention was made of policies for portrayal of Asians, Africans or Hispanics. And, just where are these policies published? I went through about seven years of college without knowing the policies.

Item number two details three arrests at the Bengals-Steelers game. The first contestant was fighting while being in line at a concession stand. Someone reached out and swiped a piece of jewelry he was wearing. I’m not feeling a lot of empathy for a guy who accessorizes for a football game.

Another combatant is described as drunk and wearing his t-shirt inside out so that you could see his last name inked on his back, football jersey style. It’s not explained how the configuration of the shirt facilitated the visibility, nor why that should be an issue. I’ll give him props for it being his name instead of a player. Nothing is more pathetic than a grown man walking around with another man’s name on his back.

This guy picked a fight and then assaulted a security officer. Anti-anxiety pills were found on him, which his lawyer assured the court were prescribed. Don’t seem to be working. And, nothing adds to the efficacy of psychotropic medication like excess alcohol.

Sit with the head cases in the stands and watch Chad’s antics on the field? You can have my seat.