Armstrong Williams

In the following viewpoint, syndicated columnist Armstrong Williams contends that professional athletes are not ideal role models for children. He asserts that professional athletes frequently break laws or behave poorly but are forgiven because of their talents. The irresponsible and unrepentant behavior of some professional athletes sets bad examples for children, Williams argues. In comparison, amateur athletes should be admired, Williams asserts, because they love their sports and work hard, even though many of them, unlike their professional counterparts, will never receive money for their efforts.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. What did boxer Riddick Bowe do at two fights and one press conference, as cited by the author?
2. What message are children receiving when professional athletes are repeatedly forgiven for their bad behavior, according to Williams?
3. In the author’s view, how...