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Interesting questions Scott. I would agree with your vote for David Robinson to the first question. From what I know about Robinson, he is honorable in all aspects of his life.
I think part of what makes this tough is the position pro athelets find themselves in. I would say that the very fact that they are pro athelets makes them unlikely role models. These are people that upon graduation from college (and in some cases highschool), are making millions of dollars a year. I think one need only look as far as the "stupidest thing you've done" thread to realize that when we were young we did not think about what we were doing. Now throw into that mix the fact that you are an elite athelete and have large sums of cash. That concept of being invincible that most of us grow out of is something that atheletes carry around with them most of their lives. They have people taking care of them, covering up for them and putting them on pedestals. It would take some very strong support systems to keep a pro athelete "grounded".
Role models should be found in your homes, schools and neighborhoods. While I admire the athletic ability of any athelete, I think the actions of Friday night show just how "common" pro atheletes are. When they are provoked they will explode and take the bait.
David Robinson is the rare person who can be showered with adoration, fame and money and still realize what is right and where his values are.
Now I'd like to say Lance Armstrong is a role model, but I am beginning to question his honesty and his values off the bike.
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