Why sports shouldn't return.

Something that I never thought I’d be saying. But I have two major reasons why all sports should just remain over for the 2019-2020 season. One: Right now there are more pressing social movements happening globally that need the attention of everyone. Two: The chase for the COVID cup will never count to any real fanatic or even athlete at this point.

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BLM

The Black Lives Matter social movement is the most important action of change happening in the world right now. Without the consistent protests, civil unrest and immense attention on the issue; this will just become another internet trend. That shouldn’t be the case. 2020 should be the year that those who are clouded in their ways of racism and discriminant behaviours open their eyes and see what the destruction has caused and continues to do to the minority groups affected. But more importantly, it should be for those who are affected by the systemic racism that has been integrated intentionally into every country and every government. It's about time for fucking human beings to be treated as such.

As the billions of people across multiple mediums and within their own physical lives see systemic racism injustices, the return of sports would ultimately be more than just a distraction for millions of people. Sports and the massive social platform it creates for athletes, teams and the management of said franchises can have the potential to force change. It doesn’t change the fact that George Floyd was murdered in cold blood screaming for his mother. And it doesn't bring back the thousands of others minority individuals who were killed for seemingly nothing besides the colour of their skin. But it can let more eyes see what can and should to be done to help the future of society.

Social influence and constant support should take headlines. Not the distractions of who won what game against whoever. As an avid sports fan and someone who consumes all sports, how can I say it's not black culture. With a fair assumption in saying that the majority of professional athletes are people of colour. Maybe even close to 60%. It is up to those "60%" to yell into the faces of all bigots and ignorant people. While the remaining "40%" support them through learning how to be better, walking with their brothers and sisters and of course showing that all ethnicities can join together to create change. In a positive and productive manner.

Publicity stunts and true activism are a fine line. Instagram is the perfect example of that. So for these celebrities, major companies and activist who have spoken out; stick to what you’re preaching. With those who are attempting to clout chase in the sharing of articles, videos or stories; continue doing that. Even if you don’t mean it, people are at least seeing the headlines of the articles. Just please actually try to change for the better. For those who are actively pushing for change either online or on the streets; continue with those fights. To the major athletes or celebrities risking sponsors and their followers; never change your fight for change.

COVID Cup

Nobody likes an asterisk. Am I right patriots fans? Nobody wants to hear that their favourite team won the championship followed by hearing reasons why it shouldn’t count. Am I right Raptors fans? Nobody wants to see their favourite player half-assing the remainder of the season. Am I right Pro Bowl fans?

In my opinion the continuation of the seasons would just be for those teams that have been having great seasons and its creating a fan service to the bandwagoners and die hards of said teams.

But, I would be lying if I said I wouldn’t be happy to have all my sports come back. I still remember vividly siting at the bar with Cris and Gia when the announcement exploded onto the TV stating that the NBA will be postponed. An hour later the NHL and MLB announced the same message. It was scary shit. It validated the virus as terrible as that sounds. With waiting 3 months now watching no sports, following what the players, coaches and organizations had said about the return, I just don’t feel it's a complete league that will be coming back. So what’s the point?

I love sport. I’d say all sport at this point. I would be lying if I said I wouldn’t watch the the Stanley Cup playoffs, NBA season and if the MLB ever decides to stop being foolish I’d enjoy the world series. But I just can’t get over the fact that even if the original projected champions won, it still wouldn’t be a true victory. Like LeBron became Tik Tok famous during the COVID vacation. So obviously its just different, even too different. Maybe even lame.

Overall, the seasons across all sports is just a big yikes at this point. I am just sadly not here for it. Cancel the seasons. Give last years winners a consolation dub. Because the way I see it, whoever wins in their respected sports this year are basically getting the same trophy.