Cleveland Metropolitan School District officials announced the punishment for the eleven members of the Glenville football team that are being charged with theft after allegedly stealing over $4500 dollars of merchandise from a Dick’s Sporting Goods store in Grove City, Ohio. The eleven players have been suspended from school and have also been ruled ineligible to participate for the next two Glenville football games.
Unless a verdict or closure of this case happens within the next two weeks, it is my personal opinion that Glenville is making a big mistake. The harsh reality is this: Football, or any sport for that matter, is a right, not a privilege. The idea that these kids are allowed to play while the jury is still out on their innocence or guilt is both reckless and irresponsible.
It is my opinion that the proper punishment would be to suspend the kids from all football activity until a verdict or a plea bargain has been reached. This sends a very clear message that alleged shoplifting, or any other potential law-breaking incident, will not be tolerated.