KF Press Conference @ 2pm

[revkev73]

I promised myself I would not wade into this situation and I am probably going to wish I hadn't but....I have a couple things to say.

I don't like the politics on this board. The ideas and opinions about society as it is and needed changes should be had. In other forums. My opinion, Name-calling is not appropriate.

This thread is about the press conference yesterday so I have a couple comments about my opinion of the state of Iowa Football. I am one of those old fans and I am also female. Those facts color my opinions- I think that everyone matters and that this experiment we have been conducting since the founding of this country needs to be periodically and amended/improved as needed. I think this is one of those times.

I do not think discussion of any subject should be suppressed. I don't understand why certain subjects are blocked for discussion in Congress. There is no harm and could be great benefit to listen to the experiences and viewpoints of other people.

That is why I believe that even this negative situation with the Iowa Football program could lead to examinations of the state of college sports and end up being a positive.. From the comments of the players, they are very hopeful that the problems they have brought up with the culture of the program are going to be addressed and their opinions and experiences are valid. For some reason, this was not the case. I think the idea of a commission is a good one and I look forward to their conclusions

About the fate of individual coaches, the specifics of allegations will determine their fates. As FryIowa said, Iowa is an at will state. We don't know if any of the alleged behavior was addressed before. If so, that could be a different situation. I believe in education and that people can be educated about their behavior and make needed change. I just don't know what is appropriate yet. I do think the Hawks will set an example for other programs and per the players they are off to a good start,

GO HAWKS and so sorry for the length of this post

I agree for the most part.

However we don't know about the words/actions of the players either. People often "get in trouble" or "sit the bench" or are encouraged to "go back home" and leave the program, not because of racism, but because of inappropriate behavior that doesn't mix with the team philosophy and expectations. Coaches usually have their hands tied and can make no comments when they might actually desire to get some details and reasons for the discipline out to the fans and donors.

It seems over the last 10-12 years the Iowa staff has been more clear in their expectations and whom they might want to be a part of the "group." It isn't all about talent now, it seems. This is Iowa, this is what we do, these are our expectations. If you don't think you can abide by them, well, there are many other colleges out there that will work for you: Michigan State, Nebraska, etc. If that's what you want, go follow your dream, hope it works out. Here...we are on a team mission. Many of our players are drafted, some of them leave. It is up to you. Let us know. If you can put your "self" aside and become "one of us" this is a great place to grow and succeed.

 

[Ree4]

Joe Biden: "if you dont vote for me, you ain't black."

Remind me again who the douches are?

LOL you really want to get in a war of quotes? Hahahah. Biden is a republican anyway, but nice try.

 

[4thngoal]

I agree for the most part.

However we don't know about the words/actions of the players either. People often "get in trouble" or "sit the bench" or are encouraged to "go back home" and leave the program, not because of racism, but because of inappropriate behavior that doesn't mix with the team philosophy and expectations. Coaches usually have their hands tied and can make no comments when they might actually desire to get some details and reasons for the discipline out to the fans and donors.

It seems over the last 10-12 years the Iowa staff has been more clear in their expectations and whom they might want to be a part of the "group." It isn't all about talent now, it seems. This is Iowa, this is what we do, these are our expectations. If you don't think you can abide by them, well, there are many other colleges out there that will work for you: Michigan State, Nebraska, etc. If that's what you want, go follow your dream, hope it works out. Here...we are on a team mission. Many of our players are drafted, some of them leave. It is up to you. Let us know. If you can put your "self" aside and become "one of us" this is a great place to grow and succeed.

Because the number 1 goal is to produce good people.
That's why the children's hospital is a big part of the culture surrounding the program.
We do support these kids on and off the field. We support them after they graduate. We do not want to produce NFL players who get mixed up in murder charges for hanging around the wrong people. We do not want to produce NFL players who get caught dog fighting. We do not want to produce NFL players who punch their wives in the face right on camera.
Sometimes you must abandon a culture or even upbringing to grow, to flourish. I'm sorry but it can not be easy for an inner city kid, black or white or any race to come to Iowa City and possibly adapt and change their philosophy. But it's also not easy for Iowa City the college or the coaches to help them grow into a person who will be the biggest benefit to the world that they can be.
We are committed. Are you??

 

[revkev73]

Because the number 1 goal is to produce good people.
That's why the children's hospital is a big part of the culture surrounding the program.
We do support these kids on and off the field. We support them after they graduate. We do not want to produce NFL players who get mixed up in murder charges for hanging around the wrong people. We do not want to produce NFL players who get caught dog fighting. We do not want to produce NFL players who punch their wives in the face right on camera.
Sometimes you must abandon a culture or even upbringing to grow, to flourish. I'm sorry but it can not be easy for an inner city kid, black or white or any race to come to Iowa City and possibly adapt and change their philosophy. But it's also not easy for Iowa City the college or the coaches to help them grow into a person who will be the biggest benefit to the world that they can be.
We are committed. Are you??

Our culture used to share the "myths" which we want our citizens to possess. The church taught "The Ten Commandments" in various forms which helped citizens how to respect other: avoid stealing, telling lies, slandering, screwing your neighbor's wife, respecting authority, honoring your father and mother, serving in the military as a patriotic citizen concerned about the good of all, etc. Our schools used to put a priority on "Citizenship Class" so everyone would know there is something higher and more valuable that ME. So much of this is gone. Our "Myths" are now learning to be a victim, learning the system to get free things, learning to advertise ourselves on social media so everyone will know how amazing we are, (hoping to build up those "likes.") and roaming around outside of marriage so that millions of young males, especially, are raised without fathers, mentors, etc., that is, without personal discipline or respect. (This is much higher in the African American Community)

So, there will be a "Clash of Civilizations" when self absorbed recruits (of any race) are voluntarily (important to keep that in mind) find themselves in a situation where the culture is about the common good, respect, working hard, doing your best to earn playing time, etc. It can be a two by four to the forehead. It often doesn't work and when "Snowball" from Detroit or Mason City faces the fact that he isn't that important or great and certainly isn't more important than the "team" well, things go sideways with blame, anger, accusation, pouting, slander, etc. For these folks, rules are absurd and are resisted. Some get it, many others don't. They go back home, or enter the transfer portal, or are told to go home, but still "simmering" with the injustices meted out to them.

This is the same struggle we have with immigration. What are the "myths" that we want our immigrants to absorb and accept as "what we expect of them?, what we expect of ourselves?" Our country takes in many "communities" that don't want to be assimilated even as we have a difficult time (in our world of diversity, tolerance. yada) even describing who we are, let along sharing what we expect of others.

None of this excuses abusive and violent actions by coaches, police or anyone else. (including players) But there is a clash of civilizations going on all over, not just in the Iowa weight room.

"Rise and Fall of the Roman Empire" Coming apart at the seams.

The only solution is leadership...leaders who can lead everyone, and voice clearly a goal for the future that is healthy for all, not just one, or a group. Who will lead us on and off the campus?

Or so it seems...

 

[4thngoal]

Our culture used to share the "myths" which we want our citizens to possess. The church taught "The Ten Commandments" in various forms which helped citizens how to respect other: avoid stealing, telling lies, slandering, screwing your neighbor's wife, respecting authority, honoring your father and mother, serving in the military as a patriotic citizen concerned about the good of all, etc. Our schools used to put a priority on "Citizenship Class" so everyone would know there is something higher and more valuable that ME. So much of this is gone. Our "Myths" are now learning to be a victim, learning the system to get free things, learning to advertise ourselves on social media so everyone will know how amazing we are, (hoping to build up those "likes.") and roaming around outside of marriage so that millions of young males, especially, are raised without fathers, mentors, etc., that is, without personal discipline or respect. (This is much higher in the African American Community)

So, there will be a "Clash of Civilizations" when self absorbed recruits (of any race) are voluntarily (important to keep that in mind) find themselves in a situation where the culture is about the common good, respect, working hard, doing your best to earn playing time, etc. It can be a two by four to the forehead. It often doesn't work and when "Snowball" from Detroit or Mason City faces the fact that he isn't that important or great and certainly isn't more important than the "team" well, things go sideways with blame, anger, accusation, pouting, slander, etc. For these folks, rules are absurd and are resisted. Some get it, many others don't. They go back home, or enter the transfer portal, or are told to go home, but still "simmering" with the injustices meted out to them.

This is the same struggle we have with immigration. What are the "myths" that we want our immigrants to absorb and accept as "what we expect of them?, what we expect of ourselves?" Our country takes in many "communities" that don't want to be assimilated even as we have a difficult time (in our world of diversity, tolerance. yada) even describing who we are, let along sharing what we expect of others.

None of this excuses abusive and violent actions by coaches, police or anyone else. (including players) But there is a clash of civilizations going on all over, not just in the Iowa weight room.

"Rise and Fall of the Roman Empire" Coming apart at the seams.

The only solution is leadership...leaders who can lead everyone, and voice clearly a goal for the future that is healthy for all, not just one, or a group. Who will lead us on and off the campus?

Or so it seems...

EXACTLY. I understand it. I'm not as good at wording it as you are however. I'm more of a keep my mouth shut until I get to the point where I am like "listen here mf".
I'm a live and let live type person and really don't care much about most things, but when something like abuse comes along, I can't hold my tongue. Like I have said I am very much for fair, just and equal.
A little philosophy and religion goes a long way. But we don't teach either really.

 

[HawkGold]

Our culture used to share the "myths" which we want our citizens to possess. The church taught "The Ten Commandments" in various forms which helped citizens how to respect other: avoid stealing, telling lies, slandering, screwing your neighbor's wife, respecting authority, honoring your father and mother, serving in the military as a patriotic citizen concerned about the good of all, etc. Our schools used to put a priority on "Citizenship Class" so everyone would know there is something higher and more valuable that ME. So much of this is gone. Our "Myths" are now learning to be a victim, learning the system to get free things, learning to advertise ourselves on social media so everyone will know how amazing we are, (hoping to build up those "likes.") and roaming around outside of marriage so that millions of young males, especially, are raised without fathers, mentors, etc., that is, without personal discipline or respect. (This is much higher in the African American Community)

So, there will be a "Clash of Civilizations" when self absorbed recruits (of any race) are voluntarily (important to keep that in mind) find themselves in a situation where the culture is about the common good, respect, working hard, doing your best to earn playing time, etc. It can be a two by four to the forehead. It often doesn't work and when "Snowball" from Detroit or Mason City faces the fact that he isn't that important or great and certainly isn't more important than the "team" well, things go sideways with blame, anger, accusation, pouting, slander, etc. For these folks, rules are absurd and are resisted. Some get it, many others don't. They go back home, or enter the transfer portal, or are told to go home, but still "simmering" with the injustices meted out to them.

This is the same struggle we have with immigration. What are the "myths" that we want our immigrants to absorb and accept as "what we expect of them?, what we expect of ourselves?" Our country takes in many "communities" that don't want to be assimilated even as we have a difficult time (in our world of diversity, tolerance. yada) even describing who we are, let along sharing what we expect of others.

None of this excuses abusive and violent actions by coaches, police or anyone else. (including players) But there is a clash of civilizations going on all over, not just in the Iowa weight room.

"Rise and Fall of the Roman Empire" Coming apart at the seams.

The only solution is leadership...leaders who can lead everyone, and voice clearly a goal for the future that is healthy for all, not just one, or a group. Who will lead us on and off the campus?

Or so it seems...

About your comment about victims, it's just that we finally acknowledge trauma. There are those that really don't experience it and those who stuff down what they experienced and have issues as a result.

vic·tim
/ˈviktəm/
Learn to pronounce

noun

1. a person harmed, injured, or killed as a result of a crime, accident, or other event or action

If your wife or daughter is raped, what are they? Are they victims you seem to despise? It's OK to have ptsd from war but ptsd from rape or other actions isn't? Which do you think would be the proper way to handle your daughter as a person who was raped? A victim...or say, honey, I love you but stop acting like a victim? Suck it up and be a survivor?

 

[Hawkeyes5]

So you don’t know what they did outside what you read...

But you do know what they’ve done doesn’t rise to the legal standards of termination?

You just keep getting richer by the minute.

Lesson #1, I’ve you’ve ever been involved with or studied employment law, there are no “legal standards of termination” unless the person getting fired got fired because of a legally defined discriminatory reason as a member of a protected class.” That is a fact. It’s not disputable. Iowa is an at will state, and they could fire Brian because they thought his hair was out of style or he wore a shirt Barta didn’t like or he drove a Ford instead of a Chevy. Any reason they want. You don’t have to take my meager education as gospel, and please don’t. Do some research. You’ll find out for yourself. Firing “for cause” is a separate matter altogether, but that sails down the civil path and would get decided by a mediator, not a law judge. And since he’s a young, white, male with no disabilities, no dice. Your argument in those terms holds no water.

And since you’re bringing up “legal standards of termination,” let’s dig a little deeper into that...

Seth Wallace is accused of posting Jack Kallenberger’s GPA in the position room with the intent being to mock him for it. Several players have corroborated it on Twitter. I’d like to introduce you to FERPA. You can google it and do a whole lot of reading, but I’ll save you some trouble and let you know that if it happened, it’s a crime. Not a “we’d prefer if you didn’t do that,” or a “that wasn’t very nice,” thing...it’s a crime. As in, against the law. As in federal law. If my son goes to college, even if he’s seventeen, even if I’m paying for it out of my own pocket, I don’t get to see his GPA until he fills out paperwork saying I can see it. Seth Wallace committed a crime if he did that. Does that fall under your “legal standards of termination?”

I’d really like to read through your standards, btw, if you’d care to share them. They sound interesting.

Anywhoo, we’re getting away from the main point. And that main point is that you are no more than a JoePa denier. You’ve got a picture in your head of Eagle Scouts and apple pie KF and you can’t bear to think of life without Kirk being a saintly god like Joe Paterno was. You’ve seen him give interviews and that’s all you need. You don’t need to know what he’s like in an office alone with a player holding said player’s future above his head, because you’ve closed your mind and decided that KF is capable of no wrongs. Every single breath he takes is aimed at creating corn fed, yes ma’am, hay bailing American integrity machines, right?

I had the misfortune of meeting a whole bunch of cultish sheep like you when I took a trip to PA in ‘16. People who wouldn’t even give a thought to whether or not their David Koresh guy could make a mistake. It’s absołutely sickening that there might have been folks like you on a jury had Paterno not croaked, who had made up their minds with zero facts and innocent livelihoods on the line. I don’t know if you’re a jeebus guy or not, but doesn’t your book tell you about how sometimes dogs wear sheep’s jackets? Did you skip that part because you might be afraid that you got fooled?

So you were the guy who talked smack on another thread calling all sorts of nastiness....so you call people who have another opinion from you bs names? So you are okay with the possibility of changing Kinnick Stadium?

 

[revkev73]

About your comment about victims, it's just that we finally acknowledge trauma. There are those that really don't experience it and those who stuff down what they experienced and have issues as a result.

vic·tim
/ˈviktəm/
Learn to pronounce

noun

1. a person harmed, injured, or killed as a result of a crime, accident, or other event or action

If your wife or daughter is raped, what are they? Are they victims you seem to despise? It's OK to have ptsd from war but ptsd from rape or other actions isn't? Which do you think would be the proper way to handle your daughter as a person who was raped? A victim...or say, honey, I love you but stop acting like a victim? Suck it up and be a survivor?

I don't despise victims at all. I have been assigned to be their advocates many times. I have family members who have endured the same. I feel empathy for them. There is extreme isolation, shame, and much more.

More than once in my career I have tried to work the removal of someone in authority who has demonstrated to me and others that they are evil and harmful to innocent people. They get away with it by their cunning and power. More than once in my career I have seen the falsely accused destroyed by "slights" that they "inflicted" upon victims who want nothing more than revenge or perhaps a nice fat lawsuit payout. It is a murky area, with many shades of gray and guilt or innocence.,

I guess the issue is the degree of "victimhood." How damaged is a person if the coach tells him that if he doesn't pick up his work ethic and become a team player he will be shipped back to Gary, Indiana or Sioux Falls? Some people are victims but many, many more "sense" being a victim when there is little or intent to harm them. That's the difficulty. And valid for this discussion...it is football, not nursery school or a class of the gifted and talented.

Many times people who "sense" being a victim end up making the ones they accuse (usually behind their backs or in the safety of social media) the actual victims of their slander. Reputations are destroyed. Lives are changed forever. This isn't fair either.

So it seems...

 

[HawkGold]

I don't despise victims at all. I have been assigned to be their advocates many times. I have family members who have endured the same. I feel empathy for them. There is extreme isolation, shame, and much more.

More than once in my career I have tried to work the removal of someone in authority who has demonstrated to me and others that they are evil and harmful to innocent people. They get away with it by their cunning and power. More than once in my career I have seen the falsely accused destroyed by "slights" that they "inflicted" upon victims who want nothing more than revenge or perhaps a nice fat lawsuit payout. It is a murky area, with many shades of gray and guilt or innocence.,

I guess the issue is the degree of "victimhood." How damaged is a person if the coach tells him that if he doesn't pick up his work ethic and become a team player he will be shipped back to Gary, Indiana or Sioux Falls? Some people are victims but many, many more "sense" being a victim when there is little or intent to harm them. That's the difficulty. And valid for this discussion...it is football, not nursery school or a class of the gifted and talented.

Many times people who "sense" being a victim end up making the ones they accuse (usually behind their backs or in the safety of social media) the actual victims of their slander. Reputations are destroyed. Lives are changed forever. This isn't fair either.

So it seems...

I don't necessarily disagree with your premise. Defining it is key. That is a problem. Is a person limited to say .25 jobs solely on race victimized when an equal person of a different race can get say 4 jobs? Then factor in those who may not be qualified because of lack of education at the same percentages? Is getting stopped for being black make them a victim? What about Faith?

This was in England not the US, but watch this. This was a pretty tame encounter except for the lady being angry and I don't blame her. The 2nd is an interview with the couple. Some of you I would guess would support the police in this.

https://www.news18.com/news/buzz/uk...black-couple-for-driving-on-road-2666909.html

 

[racerhawk]

This is true. There are abuses. Unions protect evil and incompetent police as in other professions. The "group protection racket" is also in place. If you Narc on a fellow cop, you are done, or dead. This dynamic is true in all professions. "We take care of our own."

That said, (On NPR IIRC) I listened to a guy who wrote a book about the murder by police in Baltimore of an African American. (Don't recall the details, 5 years ago?) He was very level-headed in his discussion and acknowledged abuses by law enforcement and the corrupt systems in some locations. However, in the midst of this, he said that police need to be given more protection from prosecution for some of their violent actions. He stated that just by the nature of their work and the fact that they are risking their lives to do what it right most of the time, in a very difficult and unclear world of right and wrong, the laws and their prosecutions need to account for this. He also explained that most people have no idea the unknown, violent, drug infested, gang infested, organized crime worlds police are confronted with. He spoke in favor of those abused and harmed by law enforcement, calling for justice, but also has a real world understanding of law enforcement's challenges in a world most of us know nothing about. It was a common sense discussion that impressed me. It wasn't black and white, good and bad, right and wrong. He was explaining dangerous chaos, anarchy, and how difficult and dangerous it can be.

In these situations, I would appreciate more honest and truthful news coverage about the backgrounds of the victims which might have led them to be arrested and harmed. How did they get into this confrontation with a police officer? What is their history of crime? Do they have a history of being dangerous and violent towards police? Were they on drugs during the incident? Why is this not often shared with the public? Are we afraid of truth on all sides? I believe more honesty in the media (living out their profession) would go a long way to solving many issues that face us. Now, it isn't a noble profession, but a propaganda mill that distorts the minds of millions. This is dangerous and is overlooked by most.

If a police officer kills someone with a choke hold, knowing the victim has a history of violence, then I might understand two things better: The officer did something wrong and I understand better why it happened. This without agreeing with the action.

So it seems...

I appreciate the dialogue on this very complex issue. I agree that it's possible to try to work with the shades of gray that really seem to be present.

Unfortunately, our highly polarized culture had to take sides on virtually everything, and it limits listening, learning, and understanding.

It's possible to support justice for black victims and support the police.

It's possible to support taking a knee and our troops. I supported it and I was an officer in the military.

We need more dialogue and less spewing. I've done it myself and it helps no one.

Maybe this is a time for listening. I, for one, am committed to listening to black people a bit more before I form an opinion. We all have bias.

 

[racerhawk]

May 25th Floyd dies.
May 26th all officers involved are fired and the FBI is called in to investigate.
The video goes on social media and the riots begin that day.

I don't know, much, but I know the wheels of justice do not spin that fast. Especially on serious charges. It's not like writing out a speeding ticket and paying it online.[/QUOTE

I stand corrected. Didn't realize the officers were charged with murder the next day.

 

[revkev73]

I appreciate the dialogue on this very complex issue. I agree that it's possible to try to work with the shades of gray that really seem to be present.

Unfortunately, our highly polarized culture had to take sides on virtually everything, and it limits listening, learning, and understanding.

It's possible to support justice for black victims and support the police.

It's possible to support taking a knee and our troops. I stopped it and I was an officer in the military.

We need more dialogue and less spewing. I've done it myself and it helps no one.

Maybe this is a time for listening. I, for one, am committed to listening to black people a bit more before I form an opinion. We all have bias.

Yes, support justice for all AND support law enforcement, which is primarily filled with courageous people who do jobs most of us couldn't.

A sign of emotional and theological health is the ability to listen to, be interested in, and consider the views of others, without necessarily making them your own. This works well. But such "tolerance and kindness" is seldom heard or seen today.

African Americans could do a lot to help their own plight as well. The opportunities have been there for decades. Finishing high school is a big step.

I want blacks to do well, to prosper, and to have the same justice that everyone else has. 3-4 of the individuals I have admired most in my life have been African American...coming from very difficult situations to become great leaders. I admire them them a great deal.

 

[racerhawk]

I agree for the most part.

However we don't know about the words/actions of the players either. People often "get in trouble" or "sit the bench" or are encouraged to "go back home" and leave the program, not because of racism, but because of inappropriate behavior that doesn't mix with the team philosophy and expectations. Coaches usually have their hands tied and can make no comments when they might actually desire to get some details and reasons for the discipline out to the fans and donors.

It seems over the last 10-12 years the Iowa staff has been more clear in their expectations and whom they might want to be a part of the "group." It isn't all about talent now, it seems. This is Iowa, this is what we do, these are our expectations. If you don't think you can abide by them, well, there are many other colleges out there that will work for you: Michigan State, Nebraska, etc. If that's what you want, go follow your dream, hope it works out. Here...we are on a team mission. Many of our players are drafted, some of them leave. It is up to you. Let us know. If you can put your "self" aside and become "one of us" this is a great place to grow and succeed.

There is a difference between discipline and threatening to"send you back to the ghetto", yes?

A lot of black players transfer out. Interesting.

 

[racerhawk]

You don’t know me entirely. My daughter is an immigration lawyer in Brooklyn. She has marched in the protests. My son is in Huntsville, ALA. he has marched in the protests. My older daughter is in Ann Arbor. She is treating COVID 19 patients. I get it.

When I was a young man, I lived in the white picket fence world of Iowa football....but the Black boycott of 1969 destroyed that fence forever.

yes, I am an old man who lives in the past. You are 40 and in your prime. But someday you will be 67, like me. Change is hard.

There has been a narrative on this board that the State of Iowa is a racist State. I say, bullshit! my great great grandfather died in the Battle of SHILOH. Do you know which state had the highest per capital casualties in the Civil War, the great battle to free the slaves? IOWA. When I was a boy, we would visit the Capitol, and view the Civil War battle flags of the Iowa regiments. They were shredded with bullets. Young boys bled and died to achieve freedom for Blacks. It was a noble cause. Visit the civil war monuments at the grounds of the Iowa State capital in Des Moines. They are still there. It will humble you.Please, make that trip, it will chsnge your perspective forever about our State. We have been leaders in racial matters.

What am I trying to say? Race equality must happen. Total equality and color blindness. It can happen now. Gosh darn it, it must happen. I am a Republican, but so was Lincoln. This is a singular, seminal moment in time....the Iowa football team must seize it! My God, the whole country is watching Iowa. This is a great opportunity!

How does this actually apply to Iowa football? The State of Iowa can lead, as it did in the civil war. Embrace it behind Captain Kirk. Here are my suggestions:

1. . Name our field Slater Field at Kinnick Stadium. Do it!
2. Put BLM on our helmets.
3. If the black kids want to do it, kneel during the anthem. LEAD, like we did at the Battle of Shiloh.

Kirk, with all of his faults, has a good heart. Let the kids LEAD HIM. IKM gets it. Let our black players ignite this team. Defeat doubters. Defeat the racism. This can happen at Iowa. Iowa is a predominately white State, but we bled and died for an end to racism 155 years ago. Seize this opportunity now. Ferentz can do this. Even at 67 years of age, I can see this watershed moment. Come on Iowa fans, support Kirk and this team. Embrace a new paradigm. A United team is powerful. Sorry to ramble, but a moment like this...an opportunity like this...is rare.

This is an amazing post. I totally agree with you. Iowa can lead the way here, as we have in the past. Thank you for these great thoughts.

Btw I typically vote Democrat but if there is a republican that is like you I would definitely consider voting that way. Alas, we are FAR from that currently.

 

[racerhawk]

Our culture used to share the "myths" which we want our citizens to possess. The church taught "The Ten Commandments" in various forms which helped citizens how to respect other: avoid stealing, telling lies, slandering, screwing your neighbor's wife, respecting authority, honoring your father and mother, serving in the military as a patriotic citizen concerned about the good of all, etc. Our schools used to put a priority on "Citizenship Class" so everyone would know there is something higher and more valuable that ME. So much of this is gone. Our "Myths" are now learning to be a victim, learning the system to get free things, learning to advertise ourselves on social media so everyone will know how amazing we are, (hoping to build up those "likes.") and roaming around outside of marriage so that millions of young males, especially, are raised without fathers, mentors, etc., that is, without personal discipline or respect. (This is much higher in the African American Community)

So, there will be a "Clash of Civilizations" when self absorbed recruits (of any race) are voluntarily (important to keep that in mind) find themselves in a situation where the culture is about the common good, respect, working hard, doing your best to earn playing time, etc. It can be a two by four to the forehead. It often doesn't work and when "Snowball" from Detroit or Mason City faces the fact that he isn't that important or great and certainly isn't more important than the "team" well, things go sideways with blame, anger, accusation, pouting, slander, etc. For these folks, rules are absurd and are resisted. Some get it, many others don't. They go back home, or enter the transfer portal, or are told to go home, but still "simmering" with the injustices meted out to them.

This is the same struggle we have with immigration. What are the "myths" that we want our immigrants to absorb and accept as "what we expect of them?, what we expect of ourselves?" Our country takes in many "communities" that don't want to be assimilated even as we have a difficult time (in our world of diversity, tolerance. yada) even describing who we are, let along sharing what we expect of others.

None of this excuses abusive and violent actions by coaches, police or anyone else. (including players) But there is a clash of civilizations going on all over, not just in the Iowa weight room.

"Rise and Fall of the Roman Empire" Coming apart at the seams.

The only solution is leadership...leaders who can lead everyone, and voice clearly a goal for the future that is healthy for all, not just one, or a group. Who will lead us on and off the campus?

Or so it seems...

Not accepting racism is an improvement, my friend. It's not the fall of Rome.

 

[revkev73]

There is a difference between discipline and threatening to"send you back to the ghetto", yes?

A lot of black players transfer out. Interesting.

Perhaps the culture is not a good fit at Iowa.

No one has to go back to anywhere. This is a land of opportunities.

 

[revkev73]

Not accepting racism is an improvement, my friend. It's not the fall of Rome.

Racism has always existed and always will. All races demonstrate various forms of racism towards others.

Striving for fairness is a good goal.

 

[racerhawk]

Perhaps the culture is not a good fit at Iowa.

No one has to go back to anywhere. This is a land of opportunities.

Maybe Iowa could have a more inclusive culture.

 

[racerhawk]

Racism has always existed and always will. All races demonstrate various forms of racism towards others.

Striving for fairness is a good goal.

Striving to be actively anti racist is a good goal. I don't accept that we cannot make progress. Our forefathers owned black people. We can all continue to improve. Let's be on the right side of history. Iowa can lead the way.

 

[racerhawk]

Perhaps the culture is not a good fit at Iowa.

No one has to go back to anywhere. This is a land of opportunities.

Doyle apparently said he would send them back to ghettos. Do your homework.