Athletes As Role Models

In class on September 18, 2018, we discussed the topic of athletes being role models. In that discussion, we covered some of the qualities that a role model should possess. Those qualities include:

1. being a leader
2. caring about their community
3. being a hard worker
4. having a good work ethic
5. being genuine

We also discussed a checklist in which what role models should have. Examples include:

1. being honest
2. being committed
3. having good sportsmanship
4. having a good sense of humor
5. being fair
6. having determination
7. possessing a good self-image
8. having high moral values

Unfortunately, not all athletes possess these qualities nor do they check any of the listed characteristics above.

The player above is Mychal Kendricks, a current football player for the Seattle Seahawks. Mychal has also played with the Philadelphia Eagles, as well as the Cleveland Browns. While a member of the Cleveland Browns, news broke that the linebacker had been indicted with offenses in inside trading. Kendricks and friend, Damilare Sonoiki committed these severe crimes back in the years of 2014 and 2015, while he was a member of the Philadelphia Eagles. 

In more detail, the linebacker did claim that he did not know the details of his actions, he did, however, state that he knew what he was doing was not right. Kendricks made a profit of approximately $1.2 million off of mergers from the information that was given to him by Sonoiki. The US Justice Department also alleged that, in turn for his insider tips, Damilare Sonoiki received tickets to Eagles games, $10,000, and more. The two now face three federal charges, conspiracy to commit securities fraud, securities fraud, and aiding and abetting. 

Even though Mychal Kendrick is a first time offender, and likely won't face the maximum sentence, his charges are added up to carry a 25-year prison sentenced, along with a $5.3 million fine after time served. 

Since the story broke the linebacker has been released by the Cleveland Browns, signed by the Seattle Seahawks, and indefinitely suspended by the NFL as he goes through the process of his crime.

For more information on the story: https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/08/29/mychal-kendricks-cleveland-browns-insider-trading-case-damilare-sonoiki-blackish