Sam Acho, a former NFL player and current ESPN NFL analyst, recently participated in the Reagan Civility & Democracy Forum, hosted by the Ronald Reagan Foundation Center on Civility & Democracy. He emphasized the importance of enhancing civility among Americans, particularly in the realm of sports.
Acho explained how attributes common in sports, such as sportsmanship and adhering to rules, could be applied to civil discourse. He shared insights in an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital.
We talked about civility in sports and how many of the same attributes athletes use can be applied to civil discourse: sportsmanship, winning and losing the right way, and playing within a set of rules.
Acho expressed his vision regarding the role of athletes and sports media in promoting civility across the nation.
Civil Discourse in Sports and Society
Acho believes civil discourse does not require unanimity. He compared disagreements in football strategies, such as preferring a 3-4 defense over a 4-3, to societal debates. The common goal, whether in sports or society, should be improvement and success.
In societal contexts, especially among political leaders, the focus should be on serving the country for the betterment of all, even amidst differing opinions on policies and laws.
Political Conversations in Sports
According to Acho, discussions on politics and other significant topics occur in NFL locker rooms. Teams often engage in debates about political events and decisions. Conversations about notable moments, such as Colin Kaepernick’s protest, were common among players.
While discussions can sometimes become tense, Acho notes that team dynamics typically ensure issues are resolved through apologies and further communication, showing resilience in dialogue.
The Influence of Platforms
Athletes possess significant platforms that can be used to speak out on important issues and educate themselves on subjects of societal relevance. Acho advocates for athletes, coaches, and executives to use their platforms responsibly and stay informed.
He acknowledged the inherent risks involved in using such platforms but emphasized the importance of a thoughtful and informed response to adversity.
Beyond the Field
Acho encourages athletes to view themselves as more than their athletic performances. He stresses the importance of intellectual capital alongside physical achievements. He likens this awareness to political leaders who should also consider their broader roles beyond immediate political gains.
Sports Media’s Role
Sports media figures, many of whom are former athletes, also wield influential platforms. Acho highlighted Pat McAfee’s significant role on ESPN as an example of media figures leveraging their reach effectively.
The responsibility involves steering conversations positively rather than chasing power or followers. Honestly critiquing events, even when unpopular, is crucial to maintaing integrity and civility.
Consequences of Poor Stewardship
Acho pointed to an incident involving Texas and Georgia where incorrect referee calls led to unsavory fan behavior, such as throwing bottles onto the field. He emphasized the importance of acknowledging faults and learning from them, irrespective of game outcomes.
This approach underscores the broader lesson about learning from mistakes and encouraging civil behavior in sports and beyond.