#RealityCheck: 6 COMMON SPORTS MYTHS DEBUNKED

“The great enemy of the truth is very often not the lie, deliberate, contrived, and dishonest, but the myth, persistent, persuasive, and unrealistic.”

Myths are an ever-existing part of an industry irrespective of their nature, by the same token sports industry is not immune to this.

People often have bigoted beliefs attached to the sports industry this attitude stems from the myths that have been revolving around for so long that they are now identified as the truth by many people associated with the industry. The myths brewed have staunch believers that act as a catalyst for the increase in the longevity of such credence’s.

The myths surrounding the sports industry lack credibility and a foundation which makes it easier to uproot them with proper justifications and facts.

Through this article, I would like to emphasize upon the common myths and misconceptions that people have about the sports industry.

Myth 1: All Athletes are overpaid

Unless you are in the top cream of the industry you will have to strive for every penny that will come your way. It is important to note that athletes are paid differently based on the sports that they play or the team they are a part of. Moreover, there is a difference between the salaries between teammates. The difference in the margins between players is colossal.

Athletes are often denied insurance especially the players of rigorous sports like boxing, football, etc.

One in every 6 football players files for bankruptcy after 12 years of retiring. Athletes have a very short career span and face many challenges after their retirement they are expected to stretch and somehow manage their once impressive paychecks for a lifetime.

Myth 2: There are not many opportunities for a breakthrough in sports

People believe that the supply of athletes exceeds their demand by more than threefold. The industry can be highly competitive. If one is passionate and ready to tackle the challenges that will come their way, they can make it to the top. This field requires a strong mind and a lot of perseverance and hard work to make a noticeable impact. Nobody in this industry reached the top overnight. Behind their success lies years and years of hard work.

Myth 3: You are too old for the sport

One is only as old as they feel. Age does play an important role when one is trying to pursue sports professionally. However, this criterion can be taken care of through proper exercise, disciplined routine, and a healthy diet.

One of the players that challenge and shatters this myth is Lou Amster. He started playing golf at the age of 48 and is still a fervent player. Another prolific player who was a late bloomer- Antonio Di Natale. He started playing at an age of 26 and was later recognized as one of the top footballers in Italy.

Myth 4: Golden touch of Midas

People till recent times believed that the medals athletes received at the Olympics were made of pure gold. However, the gold proportion for an Olympic gold medal is a minimum of 6 grams. The gold medal is made mostly of silver with a gold plating. One must never forget All that glitters is not gold. Also, athletes are required to pay taxes for their Medals. Michael Phelps a former American Swimmer had to pay $55,000 on his five golds and one silver.

Myth 5: A mother can’t make a comeback

Powerful women always challenge the odds. They successfully juggle motherhood and their career in sports and have set examples for may aspirants to come. Mark Kom the Indian boxing sensation faced heavy criticism before her comeback in the boxing ring after giving birth to her children. Serena Williams was discouraged from playing Tennis professionally after becoming a mother. However, these Mom’s challenged the misconceptions and myths head-on. Ultimately winning medals for their country and leaving their footprints in the sands of time.

Myth 6: Sports is time-consuming

Unless one desires to become a top tier athlete their work schedule can be managed within 30-40 hours each week. Sports require discipline, hard work, and perseverance but with proper time management, one can fit other activities in their schedules. The demand for time requirement also depends heavily on the sports the athlete plays.

Misconceptions and Myths around something often does more harm than good. However, each day people are rising and shattering these myths. By doing so they inspire others to believe in themselves more and face challenges head-on.

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