Scrapbook Item 6: When is Social Media too Much?

Link to this article: http://www.usatoday.com/money/industries/2011-02-06-cnbc-stadium_N.htm

In class on October 27, 2011, we discussed the relationship with social media and sports in today's society. When people are not linked in with the social media today, it is like they are the ones that are the odd man out because of how much it has grown. Many sports fans have Twitter and Facebook accounts to stay in touch with friends, coworkers, family, etc., but also to keep up to date on their favorite athletes and sport organizations. Leagues and coaches are starting to crack down though and set in special rules for how an athlete must act when using these sites especially while in season. The controversial problem is they cannot completely ban it because that is against the First Amendment rights but the specific rules like not being able to use it in season for some NCAA teams or not during game time for some professional leagues, are the rules in affect to keep the posts under control.

Coakley's text on pages 397-400 talks about new media and sports and how much it is growing and elaborating as things are introduced. Many use the social sites but there are so many different activities over the Internet that can be used such as news articles, fantasy leagues, checking up on stats, blogs, etc. In the 21st century, the Internet has developed a name all on its own with no comparison to anything of its kind. It has taken over all different types of media and made the social media number one overall and having everything turn digital as it continues to grow. The social media sites are the fastest growing and they have helped endorse a lot but get many athletes in trouble as well with the rules and regulations.

NCAA athletes have had the most issues with posting things on their twitter accounts about themselves and their organizations. Pitt is prime example because it has happened multiple times from different athletes in their sport programs but it has not just occurred within the one organization. Although it does go against the First amendment, the rules and regulations do need to be set in to keep the athletes under control when it comes to what they post on the Internet. Reporters are following them and they need to realize that they are looking for that one, little, slip up that gives them something juicy to report on during their next segment. As long as coaches, league owners, athletes, etc., watch what they say, the social websites will be fine but the one accident that happens after a tough loss will be the first mistake that can mess it up for everyone. Social Media is just a game that provides money to some and possibly hurtful points to others but it is all just a business and a game.