I've recently been reading a rash of reports of professional current and retired athletes, whose personal problems have led to their careers grinding to a halt or whose post-playing lives have been plagued by drugs or alcohol, or stupid and criminal behavior.
From Outcast to Dally M
Sad Saga of Dykstra
Lawrence Taylor: Sex Offender


Two players for the Sydney Roosters in the NRL in Australia are the latest examples. One, Anthony Watts, is accused of physically abusing his girlfriend. I have nothing but disgust for any man who physically abuses his spouse, partner, lover, or any other human being. I hope that they throw the book at him! The other is Todd Carney. Carney has a history of alcohol abuse ranging from drunk-driving to boorish and asinine behavior. He's incredibly talented, but he achieved professional status at age 17. Alcoholism is an illness, and I pray that he conquers it! You do not recognize alcohol's hold on you, until you hit rock bottom. I truly hope that he has hit it. And I hope that he picks himself up. I'd be disingenuous, if I didn't say that I'd like to see him play again. But I want to see him get better before he kills himself! I've posted Carney's pictures before in the "Hot Jocks" section of the board. The two here represent my hope for him!

There seem to be a combination of factors that make athletes particular vulnerable to this dysfunctional behavior IMO:

1 - they are natural high-risk takers, needing the thrill of the challenge that isn't being satisfied by their high-energy career.

2 - low self-esteem - ironically an athlete at a high level may be the one most likely to feel the pressure of not being the best, so that frustration is taken out on others.

3 - lack of beign held responsible - they often don't get caught because they are given a bye by society and those who make money using them.

Kind of ironic, isn't it? Those who seemingly have everything, really don't...

I always try to remember not to compare my "insides" to others "outsides"...it's always a losing proposition.