Well I guess it comes down to how easily offended you get doesn't it? When I first read the article about Darren Hooper's entrance with the Aboriginal flag T-shirt, I didn't actually understand the problem, I may be slow but, getting offended because someone is wearing a flag on their shirt representing their culture... I don't really see the problem.
How many athletes compete wearing necklaces with crosses on them? How many of us even notice they are wearing them?
Yes, the T-shirt Hooper wore was not part of the Australian Olympic uniform, but it's not as if it's disassociated with a long history within Australia. We have to ask ourselves, would there have been controversy if Hooper came out wearing an Australian flag on his chest? What is the difference between these two flags, are they not both linked with the background of the Australian people?
Wearing this t-shirt with pride and coping flack, and still winning the match goes to show, it doesn't matter what you do off court it's what you do when you're needed to. Also who doesn't expect some sort of controversy from athletes, especially a boxer half their self- esteem is run on ego. Getting flack for a certain incident and continuing to win, just eggs them on even harder.
Excellent blog entry Bec. Your ideas were, well presented, well thought out, succinct and to the point. It made for excellent reading. Keep on blogging !!
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