Chapter 15 Religion and Sport

Chapter Outline Religion and Sport in History Christian Influence on Sport Sport and Religions Other Than Christianity Use of Religion in Sport by Athletes Use of Sport by Athletes to Promote Religious Beliefs (continued)

Chapter Outline (continued) Use of Religion by Coaches, Organizations, and Owners Organizations Using Sport to Promote Religion Using Sport to Promote Christian Colleges and Secondary Schools Conflict Between Sport and Religion Chapter Summary

History of Religion and Sport Greek festivals honored gods. Christian emperor banned sports for their violence. American Puritans saw sport as sin. Muscular Christianity, value of benefits of physical activity. Religion and sport both considered “opiate of the masses”?

Christian Influences on Sport Churches attract people through sports and gymnasiums. YMCA, Springfield College, basketball Athletes use religion to conquer fears and find deeper meaning in sport. Reinforces code of conduct. Instills Protestant values such as hard work, self-discipline, striving for success.

Judaism and Sport Maccabiah Games Early American boxing In postwar period, emphasis in Jewish families on education, not sport Hank Greenberg, Sandy Koufax, Shawn Green both lauded and criticized for not playing baseball on Yom Kippur

Islam and Sport Every action is meant to glorify Allah. Women banned or wear traditional dress, but they are beginning to have greater impact on international sport. For males, no prohibition against sport participation, and sport and games have long been a part of the expected teachings. Muhammad Ali is an example.

Use of Religion by Athletes Justify commitment to high performance. Reduce pressure and uncertainty. Enhance bonds between teammates. Guide moral decision making.

Discussion What examples of religion in sport do you see on the gaming fields and on TV? Do you condone those examples?

Use of Religion by Coaches, Owners, and Organizations Team unity Moral code for athletes Being a religious role model for players Prayer breakfasts at Olympic Games Informal prayer at school events Faith nights in minor leagues Christian outreach at Olympics for years

Use of Sport to Promote Religion Fellowship of Christian Athletes (1954) Athletes in Action Pro Athletes Outreach National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA )

Use of Sport to Promote Religious Schools Notre Dame in football St Joseph’s in basketball Brigham Young University in football, Director’s Cup

Discussion Have high schools or universities that you, friends, or family are involved with placed an emphasis on religion? What was the rationale for that emphasis? Are sport and religion always compatible?

Conflict Between Sport and Religion Violent nature of some sports Athletes’ ways of overcoming internal conflicts, justifying their dedication to sport, and validating their sport experience Separate beliefs Question of meaning and value

Internal Strife Study of Athletes in Action members: One- third of 31 athletes admitted reaching a crisis in their careers trying to reconcile their religious beliefs with their sport. Not surprising: Religious strife is global reality and has been for centuries.

Discussion Have you ever had to reconcile your sporting experience and any religious beliefs you might hold?