Facing the Reality of Steroids in Professional Sports

It was a beautiful evening on Aug. 7, 2007, at San Francisco’s AT&T Park when the crowd cheered as Barry Bonds stepped up to the plate. After a full count, the crowd quieted. From the thousands in the stands to the thousands around the world watching from home, there was one question at hand. Is tonight the night he breaks the record? With a pitch from Washington Nationals pitcher Mike Bacsik, Bonds sent the ball to center field and over the wall. He’s done it, were the words echoing around the world from announcers. What record did he break?, you ask. Bonds had broken the record held by Hank Aaron for the most career home runs. Despite all the criticism, Bonds had finally made history and was on top of the world

On Nov. 15, just two months after hitting 756 home runs and breaking the record, Bonds was indicted on charges of perjury and obstruction of justice. For many years, rumors about Bonds using steroids were everywhere. After his trainer, Greg Anderson, admitted to supplying steroids to some of the individuals he trained, Bonds immediately came under scrutiny. In December 2003, Bonds had denied stories of his trainer supplying him steroids in front of a federal grand jury. Almost four years later, many believe he lied under oath.

But in the case of steroid use, Bonds is not the only person being looked at. Athletes from baseball, track and field, and even football are coming up with positive tests for HGH (human growth hormone) and other steroids. So the question is: Has steroids taken over the sports world?

Coming off of three gold and two bronze medal wins in the Sydney Olympics, track and field star Marion Jones admitted her use of steroids after being indicted. On Oct. 5, 2007, Jones plead guilty to two counts of lying to a federal agent about her steroid use. After Jones’ last court appearance on Jan. 11, she was sentenced to six months in prison for lying about steroid use and taking part in a check-fraud scam. Questions surrounding steroid use began after investigations of her boyfriend, Tim Montgomery, and former husband and shot-putter, C.J. Hunter, became big news. Accusations followed by Victor Conte, founder and president of the notorious BALCO (Bay Area Laboratory Co-operative), which has been investigated for providing steroids to athletes. Everyone knew Jones was a great track and field star. But was she good enough to win five Olympic medals and beat her closest competitor in one race by a clear second? A second may not seem like a lot of time, but in track, wins come by more like tenths of a second.

After two of the biggest names in the sports world have been prosecuted for lying about their steroid use, and one being convicted, it begs the question if there are any athletes today who are not using steroids. Almost every week, there is a new story on an athlete testing positive for performance enhancing drugs. One of the big sports taking a hit from this is baseball. After a book written by former baseball star Jose Canseco, who admitted to steroid use, told stories about several baseball players on steroids, investigations of other players followed. In Canseco’s book, he accuses Marc McGwire of steroid use. Recently, the big name of New York Yankees pitcher Roger Clemens has come to the forefront. Leaks about his steroid use are beginning to hit the fan. With the league becoming more competitive each year, many players feel as though they have to perform at a higher level.

Another sport that has been hit with the steroid bug lately is football. In 2004, Superbowl contenders the Carolina Panthers were involved in a huge steroid scandal. Dr. James Shortt was found to have written prescriptions for steroids for several Panthers: Kevin Donnalley, John Milem, Jeff Mitchell, Todd Sauerbrun, Todd Steussie, Wesley Walls, and practice squad player Louis Williams. Since that point, the NFL has made progress in not letting that happen again. At the same time, more and more football players every year are testing positive for steroids, but many feel their punishment is lenient. So what kind of message is this sending to young athletes today – that cheating has become acceptable?

In a society in which the strong seem to thrive, many athletes are doing things to make sure they are the strongest. But this just isn’t in the professional sports world; high school and college athletes are testing the waters as well. It seems like athletes are getting better as time progresses. Many try to get the edge and become the best. In the world of high school and college-level sports, steroid use is on the rise.

Barry University sophomore starting pitcher Robbie Conver says, “Everyone in the professional leagues uses them. You do what you have to do to get to the top.”

When asked if he thinks that steroids will soon reach the realm of basketball, Barry University junior guard, Uli de la Vega says, “I don’t think it will affect the basketball world as bad as the other sports, such as baseball and football. Sports like football and baseball require power; but basketball is more a finesse sport. So since steroids are for power, I don’t think basketball players would take a chance and ending up hurting themselves.”

Though many may try to deny it, getting injected with HGH is as easy as going to the doctor and having it done right in the office. Clearly this is an issue. In March 2004, the National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) estimated that at least a half-million eighth and tenth graders had taken steroids. In light of that, precautions have been taken to discourage steroid use at such a young age. According to an article published in USA Today on Dec. 21, 2005, student athletes in the state of New Jersey were to face steroid testing in the fall of 2006. Since testing went forward, a reported two percent of the 500 student athletes tested positive for steroids. Also in the article, a high school coach, Greg Toal, who began coaching at Don Bosco Prep in Ramsey, N.J., in 1999, said, “Kids at 17 and 18 think they're invincible. If testing is what helps stop them from using steroids, then do it.”

A different study conducted the same year indicated that nearly 1.1 million Americans said they had used anabolic steroids. Since that time, the numbers have steadily increased. It seems as though steroid use has become too common. But over the last couple of months, facts have shown that frequent drug use can lead to death.

In the world of professional wrestling, the deaths of Chris Benoit, who killed his wife and 7-year-old son and then committed suicide earlier this year, and Eddie Guerreo in 2005 were attributed to continued steroid use. This should be a sign to many that steroids are dangerous. But as time progresses, steroid use gets worse. So I pose a few questions to those reading this: What can be done to halt this? Or has steroid use become so big that it can’t be stopped until competitive sports as we know it radically change or cease to exist?

Outdoor Lounge

Bring the comforts of the beach to your
backyard with the new outdoor lounge



DESCRIPTION

This lightweight weatherproof lounge is perfect for use whether hanging out on the beach with friends or barbequing in the backyard with family. Equip with an adjustable head flap that clicks securing its position, comfort is never far. The tightly bind plastic going horizontal and vertical on the lounge makes relaxing simple. Metal legs allow the lounge to stand firm and withstand over 250 pounds. With a splendid white finish, the lounge fits perfectly with other outdoor lounge pieces.

FEATURES

Dimensions (LxWxH)
Ø 72" x 22" x 10.5"
10.5 lbs
Ø Easy to assemble
Ø White finish
Ø Adjustable head flaps
Ø Requires little space for storage

Outdoor Lounge
(User’s Guide)

IMPORTANT READ:
FOR SAFE USE PLEASE FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY

Step 1:
Set the lounge on its side with the legs facing you. Use one hand to keep lounge in place

Step 2:
With the other hand, pull both legs, one at a time, towards your body until they are fully extended, insuring that they are secure.

Step 3:
Lift the chair and the place it down so that the legs are on the ground.

Step 4:
Pull the flaps away from each other towards the ground until fully extended. Once they reached as low as they can go one flap should click. That is the head.

Step 5:
Now adjust the head until your desired angle is met. With each level a click should be heard insuring that it is secure.






CAUTION: This lounge is designed the seating of one person at a time. Do not sit on head or foot flaps because it may topple over.

When Your Heart Rips

These days an inquiring mind is all I’ve got
The duo of tranquility and sanity I have not
Sleepless nights, tossing and turning, I can’t rest
Because for the first time in my life my heart has been put to the test

There used to be late night talks of life, music and more
And at that point, when I was sad or stressed you were my cure
But like a thief in the night you disappeared with no goodbye
Leaving my heart rapped waiting to die

What did I do; where did I go wrong?
My heart can’t continue without answers for too long
One day I had it all the next it was thru
My mind never knew you were on a quest to find someone else to complete you

Cuz at that time you were all I needed
I thought our connection was deeply seeded
Though we were only in the physical twice
My mind knew my heart was through rolling the dice

But I guess your heart wasn’t there
And I often wonder did you ever care
Cuz one day I’m wife material what you’ve been looking for
And the next is sorry I found someone who can offer more

But hey I guess I was the fool to lend my heart
I should have known never to put my heart in my mind’s part
But like the typical I was blinded by could be love or so I thought
And cliché like I got my heart back ripped apart

So please grant me the favor before today and answer me this
Do you still desire for the feel of my lips?
Do you remember our last hug, your neck on my lips, the feel of my hips?
Do you know the pain felt when your heart rips?

Lost in Translation

Words escape my lips diffusing to the bed
A manifestation of ecstasy but left unsaid
For eyes speak measures in the creation of this
Comprehension of emotions leads to bliss

Gemini tongue cursed with speech, blessed with talent to please
A swift brush brings the mind, body and soul to ease
For the first time the untouched is revealed
Feverish temperature notification of an erogenous zone is sealed

Pre-pubescent fears cultivated over the years
Finally released with flowing tears
Distorted torture unleashes a luminous glow more powerful than a million moons
Contorted metaphoric jism more vivacious than ten noons

Climatic grazes as sweet as jasmine and elite romance
Cocaine felt high like an enticing erotic dance
Cortex spark transcends tantalizing chills throughout
Burning desire to intertwine arises with no doubt

Indescribable by any means as one spirit comes to
Stop, don’t stop conflicted emotions unleashes tears anew
Anew tears absorbed by a sweet kiss
Continuous fall attributed to continuous bliss

Captivated by divine romance
Embracing giving true love a chance
Speechless lost for words
Immense love making all else unheard

Male Spotlight: Love, Set, Match! Rittenauer makes strides on and off the tennis court

For Barry senior and tennis stand-out, Patrick Rittenauer, the game is really love, set, match. A native of Offenau, Germany and an only child, he often didn’t have a playmate. Rittenauer looked for various activities to occupy his time. But by coincidence, at the tender age of six, Rittenauaer picked up his first racket and immediately fell in LOVE.

“At that time, tennis was on the rise and everybody was playing, so I tried it and loved it” Rittenauaer stated with a hearty infectious laugh. The time Rittenauaer was referring to was in the late 1980s, when Boris Becker and Steffi Graf, a German man and woman both occupied the top steeds of the world professional tennis rankings. The emergence of Becker and Graf as superstars automatically put Germany on the map as a tennis powerhouse. Officially ushering tennis onto the scene with the whole country smitten and Patrick was no different. The only difference between him and others was that once he witnessed Becker’s and Graf’s success, he started playing, and he was unable to stop.

As the years progressed, Patrick began to realize he had a talent for tennis. After practicing for many hours almost everyday, he began to master his craft, culminating his talents into an exceptional junior career. During his time on the junior circuit in Germany he was consistently nationally ranked in the top five of his age group and place in the top three at nationals at the ages of 15, 16, and 17. After finishing high school in Germany, Patrick had his sights set on America and Barry University as his new home.

“At first I wanted to come to America just for a year, so I could learn the language, but I fell in love and met my then girlfriend, now fiancé, Sapima Zuccolillo, so I decided to stay.” said Rittenauer with a chuckle.

Arriving in America and going from the familiar cold of Germany to the often fierce heat of Miami was quite an adjustment. “I love it now.” says Rittenauer. Rittenauer love for Miami and Barry truly shows he is an extraordinary student-athlete on and off the court. Rittenauer has worked his way to the top, by working hard individually and with coaches on the tennis court, while applying that same work ethic individually with teachers in the classroom.

Most recently, Ritenauer was named Sunshine State Conference Scholar Athlete of the year. And if that isn’t enough, he was also named by “ESPN Magazine” First Team Academic All-District, making him eligible for the All-America Team. Over the past four years, while practicing countless hours, traveling and participating in numerous tennis matches, Rittenauer has compiled a 3.945 grade point average while double majoring in political science and international studies.

“My favorite class is economics. We talk about the relationship between politics and economy. Everything from getting better living conditions in third world countries to inflation is touched on. I find it very interesting.” After he graduates, Rittenauer plans to get his masters in finance. What can’t this man do?

Rittenauer is on the top of his game in the classroom and on the tennis court things are no different. He finished last season ranked fourth in the nation, posting an 11-1 record in singles play and 12-3 in doubles play. When watching him play, many can see the likes of tennis greats like Andy Roddick and Roger Federer. “I would love to be able to play like him [Federer] ” Rittenauer says. If you look closely, you might even see a slight resemblance between Federer and Rittenauer.

Though from Germany, Patrick also likes the play of American tennis star, Andy Roddick and uses him as a model for parts of his game. “I like Roddick. He has a big serve.” Says Rittenauer. Like Roddick, Rittenauer loves to serve first. He is what many would call a front runner. Once he gets ahead, the competitor doesn’t have a chance. “I like to serve first and keep the match short.” explains Rittenauer “I don’t move that well, so I use the serve to keep the matches short. And I like to get out the heat as fast as I can”.

Rittenauer’s fierce will to win and love for the game not only keeps him on his toes, but it helps his teammates as well. Teammate and Junior Manuel Lauter says, “When you see how hard he competes out there, you want to give it your all. His strength and determination is great.

Assistant Coach, Thomas Hipp says, “He is a very hard worker whose game motivates his teammates."

The 2008 season will be the last for Rittenauer. But instead of being down about it he feels great.

“I’m looking forward to my last season here. I hope we win nationals. For a couple of years we reached the finals and last year the quarters [quarterfinals]. I think we have a chance to go all the way.” Rittenauer is determined with his LOVE for the game and impeccable work ethic to help the team to reach their goals by winning every SET and MATCH. But with all that work one needs a little play.

Outside of the tennis world, Rittenauer does enjoy other sports. In his spare time he enjoys playing basketball as well as soccer. He also enjoys the city of Miami. “Downtown is nice.” Rittenauer explains “I like the palm trees and the high rises. I love the beach as well. But the best the part of Miami is the …….”

Well I was held to secrecy on that one. If you want to know that answer you are going to have to attend a match and do some investigative journalism yourself.

Hip-hop and Basketball: Linked on the Court and in Pop Culture

The hip-hop movement has had a profound effect on the mainstream culture of the entire nation, especially in the areas of music, fashion, advertising, television and sports. This influence has ignited controversy over the last 10 years, and professional basketball is one of the latest flash points for such disputes. The National Basketball Association is unofficially associated with hip-hop, as both are entertainment businesses, and many NBA players align themselves with hip-hop culture.

Many basketball players were raised in urban areas of America, where hip-hop showed them how to walk, talk, dress, and be a man. These players were accustomed to looking the part of street soldiers. Since they joined the NBA, some urban-bred players such as Allen Iverson, Carmelo Anthony, and Jermaine O’Neal have brought a hip-hop style and attitude to the game. Often players would come to games or press conferences dressed in baggy jeans, jerseys or T-shirts, sneakers, wave caps, baseball caps and chains -- looks that to many appear to be the same as rappers.

But to NBA Commissioner David Stern and other association members, this look was inappropriate, as it did not portray the professional image that the NBA wanted its players to project. In the real world, professionals dress in attire appropriate for the event they are attending, whether in formal suits or business casual: fitted khaki pants and tucked-in polos or button-down shirts, with no heavy gold chains showing. Seeing as the NBA is a professional business, it was only logical for the commissioner to want his workers to look the part.

So in October 2005, a dress code was put in place for official appearances off the court. This code requires players to wear dress shirts or sweaters; dress slacks, khakis or dress jeans; socks, and dress shoes or dress boots. Excluded items are: sleeveless shirts, T-shirts, jerseys or sports apparel (unless appropriate for the event); shorts; headgear or headphones; as well as chains, medallions or pendants worn over clothing. Just like in any business, violating the rules results in disciplinary action.

When this dress code took effect, some players took offense, viewing it as a deliberate attack upon certain players who until then, had dressed in more of a hip-hop style. Although the NBA writes the checks, the players are the ones selling official NBA merchandise such as jerseys, as well as selling out arenas. The NBA may have a problem with certain players’ style, but they have jumped on the hip-hop moneymaking bandwagon right along with everyone else.

With the emergence of hip-hop superstars, the NBA, like many other organizations and businesses, took notice and began using hip-hop music and its creators in their advertisements. NBA players appeared in films reflecting the hip-hop culture, and even produced their own hip-hop music. Not only is Iverson a star point guard, but he is also now a rapper. His first single, “40 Bars,” spoke negatively about homosexuality (shunned in the hip-hop community). In light of this, comments by Commissioner Stern and homosexual NBA fans forced Iverson to not release his album.

In addition, some hip-hop artists, such as Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter, Cornell “Nelly” Haynes and Shad “Bow Wow” Moss, became part-owners of teams. They are part of the reason some teams are able to be successful in certain venues. They bring more fans to the stands. Hip-hop fans tend to follow their favorite artists, supporting them by attending games of the teams in which those artists have partial ownership.

“A lot of players are part of the hip-hop culture. And they bring many fans along with them,” said Otis White, a guard on the Barry University men’s basketball team. Just being associated with the hip-hop culture helps pro players bring in huge revenues.

Is the NBA biting the hand that feeds it by enforcing the dress code? New Jersey Nets guard Vince Carter was offended. In New Jersey’s Bergen Record, Carter was quoted as saying, "I just think people should be able to express themselves. I know they took out the doo-rag stuff; I understand that.” But, he noted that it shouldn’t matter to others what players wear when traveling. “We want to be comfortable on a flight just like everybody else in the world when they fly.” When NBA players are flying for personal reasons, they can dress however they please, but the NBA does not want them to walk off a plane for a league event dressed in anything that doesn’t meet the code.

Allen Iverson told The Philadelphia Inquirer that the dress code “sends a bad message to kids. If you don't have a suit when you go to school, is your teacher going to think you’re a bad kid because you don't have a suit on?”

NBA players affiliated with hip-hop are highly scrutinized, and sometimes with good reasons, including troubles on and off the court. For instance, the infamous 2004 all-out brawl between the Detroit Pistons, Indiana Pacers and fans, was attributed to thug-like behavior fueled by hip-hop culture in the league. The primary concerns after these altercations, and other related troubles, are the potential effects on youth who look up to NBA stars and aspire to one day play professionally.

During three years of working with elementary-school students in an after-school program that strived to help them with schoolwork and building character, I found that many urban male youth look at NBA stars like Iverson and Anthony as role models

Indeed, many would argue that the image that pro basketball players portray is not harming youth. Although their clothing may look like that of thugs, some players have foundations to make music education available in inner-city schools and fund recreation centers to keep children off the streets. For example, Carmelo Anthony founded the Carmelo Anthony Youth Development Center in Baltimore, where he was raised. It helps children with their education and gets them involved in extracurricular activities.

Locally, Miami Heat superstar Alonzo Mourning and his wife Tracy have worked closely with the youth of South Florida for more than ten years through their non-profit organization Alonzo Mourning Charities. The Mournings have received numerous honors for their charitable work, including the 2007 Faith and Founders Award from Barry University.

While some of incidents that occur off-court still reflect on the NBA, and may have a certain relationship to the hip-hop culture, players apologize for such behavior and speak to children who look up to them about the importance of getting an education and staying out of trouble.

Hip-hop music itself can be a source of inspiration for players at all levels. Barry guard Gabe Lazo listens to hip-hop before games. He said, “When I hear music before and during the games, it gets me hyped.” Lazo is in good company: So do Anthony and Iverson. Asked at a press conference what he does to prepare for games, Anthony replied, “I listen to rap. I love Styles P and Jadakiss.” Part of a player’s performance is attributed to pre-game actions. Hip-hop music gets many players energized, and helps them perform at higher levels.

So the final questions are: Is hip-hop beneficial to the game of basketball? Or is it a disgrace that the NBA should be ashamed of? The answers are up to you.