Copyright © 2013 by Ralph F. Couey
Written content only.
The name of a
professional sports team is more than words on a jersey. The name defines
the city and the people, providing a valuable source of unity, even in times of
deep political division. Teams move from time to time, usually changing
the name in the relocation. But the longer a team resides in a place, the
stronger that identification can be.
Such is the strong
affection between the people of the Washington DC metro area and “their” team,
the Redskins.
But the age of
political correctness has come to sports. The Redskins’ name has come
under scrutiny because of the historically racist connotation. Despite
polls which show that the overwhelming numbers of people, even Native
Americans, associate the moniker with the team and not the noble peoples that
once possessed this land, it should be recognized that the term “Redskin” is by
definition just as insulting as the infamous “N-word.”
This dilemma is shared
by other teams, such as the Kansas City Chiefs, Cleveland Indians, Atlanta
Braves, and the Chicago Blackhawks. But the Redskins have become a victim of
the success brought by the arrival of Robert Griffin III. That success, elevating the team back into
the national spotlight, has given new life to the controversy.
The names, or
mascots, of sports teams have always followed a certain paradigm.
Tradition states that it should be a name associated with strength and power,
something that would strike fear or awe into the hearts of opponents.
Some names were associated with local history or heritage. Others found
inspiration in the animal kingdom. A few simply defy explanation.
(What the heck is a Hoya, anyway?) But animals which once provided
a…well…stable of possibilities now risk running afoul of animal rights groups.
This issue is rising
to a critical level and at some point, the Redskins and the NFL just might be
forced into making the change.
So what should the
new name be? There are hundreds of ideas already floating in the
ether. Everyone agrees that it should be something original and unique,
something that would inspire players and fans alike.
Naturally, like
everyone else, I have an idea.
My suggestion for the
new name of the Washington NFL franchise is…
(Drum roll,
please)
The Washington
Courage
Veteran political
observers will note that the name represents more ideal than reality, given the
character of the politicians who inhabit this town. But before you
respond with that collective brow-furrowing eye-squinting “Huh?” let me
explain.
Courage is defined as
“The mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear
or difficulty.” The word’s root is the Middle English corage, which arose from the Anglo-French
coer, meaning “heart.” Synonyms
include such ideals as bravery, daring, fearlessness, gallantry, heroism, and
valor.
Conceptually,
“courage” infers a certain firmness of mind and will; meeting challenge with
fortitude and resilience. And most importantly for a football team, a
fierce determination to win.
Courage also speaks
of honor and integrity; a continual striving for the highest of ideals.
We honor courage in soldiers who have battled in the face of the enemy.
But we also honor the courage of those who have stood for principle in the face
of sometimes violent resistance.
When we consider the
history of America, so focused in the District of Columbia, I can think of no
higher appellation for such a city’s representatives to the world.
Of all the nouns I
can think of for a football team from Washington D.C. (or Landover, Maryland
for that matter), “Courage” fits.
They wouldn’t even
have to change the team colors.
No comments:
Post a Comment