Thursday, August 11, 2005

NCAA, Indians and Bullets

Caught this tidbit in the Marion (Ind.) Chronicle-Tribune through the magic of Google News. Say what you will about the NCAA's position of Native American nicknames, but when columnists bring the Centennial Conference into the discussion ... well we get fired up and want to hear your comments.

Here are some highlights ...

"In a state named for Indians and full of places named for Indians or using Indian words, the NCAA did a very stupid thing. The National Collegiate Athletic Association, the governing body for much of college sports, has banned the use of American Indian mascots during its postseason tournaments ... Since the NCAA is so worried about being offensive, maybe other groups should speak up.

Perhaps the pope should ban college nicknames such as the Lemoyne-Owen Magicians, the Mississippi Valley State Delta Devils or the Arizona State Sun Devils.

Muslims should rally against the Crusaders of Valparaiso, University of Dallas and Holy Cross.

Perhaps General Motors should ban the Haverford College Fords.

The National Weather Service might not like the Hurricanes of the University of Miami, the Cyclones of Iowa State or the Geneva College Golden Tornadoes.

The Fraternal Order of Police might take umbrage at the Idaho Vandals, the Gettysburg College Bullets, the South Carolina-Upstate Rifles or the McDaniel College Green Terror.

... Maybe it's time for people upset about college nicknames to do some homework of their own. Learn about the Illini, the Seminoles and the Chippewas.

History and names of honor should trump political correctness."

1 comment:

d3Playbook said...

August 23 ... "The NCAA removed Florida State from its list of schools with nicknames deemed abusive or hostile on Tuesday. "The staff review committee noted the unique relationship between the university and the Seminole Tribe of Florida as a significant factor," said Bernard Franklin, NCAA senior vice president for governance and membership."

complete story