In the Oct. 7 column regarding the NFL strike, it was said that certain players are “breaking the back of an unnecessary union”, that “there is no reason athletes need a bargaining chip to get more money” and finally, “maybe they will remember the game should be fun.”

It is to be questioned why a union related to sport is deemed unnecessary. It is because sports are considered just play and fun and therefore outside the purview of the real world.

Also, the central issue is not whether the athletes get more money but rather the ability to gain free agency—a constitutional right in any other profession. Finally, the central goal of professional sport is not “fun,” rather it is an occupation for the player/worker and a business for the owner. One must make a distinction between play and games and professional sport.

oward Stidwill

assistant professor

physical education