Last night, Andrew Luck, 29 year old quarterback of the Indianapolis Colts, prodigy, described as a once in a generation-type quarterback, announced his retirement. This was unexpected. It was shocking. It rocked the NFL’s world, especially the Colts’ front office and fan base.
Ultimately, Luck said that it was “the hardest decision” of his life. I believe it. Others described the genuine joy that he had when playing the game. Teammates and competitors spoke highly of not only his play, but his character and his attitude. Nearly everyone had nice things to say and wished him luck in his future endeavors.
That is, everyone except for some Colts’ fans…
As Andrew Luck was walking back to the locker room (during the preseason game, at the end of the half), he was greeting by a mix of cheering and booing. I’d like to think that most people were cheering, but gosh, it was hard not to hear the boos.
This man had sacrificed so much for his team. He sacrificed his health for this team…not just short-term, but long-term as well. He has the right to walk away (from a sport he loves, no less) and should not be criticized for it.
To boo somebody, while seeming innocent enough, is actually a terrible thing to do. Do you not think that Andrew has explored all options, trying to find a way to get back to the game he loves and to play with teammates that he considers friends? It took tremendous courage to do what he did. To give something up that he cares about at the young age of 29. He should be entering his football prime. He should be working on putting up Hall of Fame numbers. But all of that is gone now. He already has the mental anguish of his decision. For others to pile on top of that is not right. Talk about kicking someone when they’re down…
Before you boo someone next time, put yourself in their shoes. They’re already hurt and feeling bad. Don’t make the situation worse. What do you get out of booing? Do you gain any satisfaction from it? Does it make you feel better about yourself? If so, you should probably take a look in the mirror and start working on yourself…
Just because others boo doesn’t mean that you have to. Be better than that.