It’s funny to use the phrase ”blast from the past” when you’ll see things posted just a few years ago, but the fact is – in the sports world of social media, a few years can make a huge difference. Just a couple of years ago, there was no one who could teach athletes about good behaviour on social media, but we are lucky to have those mistakes now. Learning about quality content is a never ending journey.
1. Lolo Jones on Vine (2013)
Don’t make fun of your paycheck, ever. Lolo was endorsed by McDonalds, Red Bull and all sorts of big names at the time, but not all on the team were. There are always people who live for that sum of money, no matter how big or small it is.
2. Charlie Villanueva on Twitter (2009)
In da locker room, snuck to post my twitt. We’re playing the Celtics, tie ball game at da half. Coach wants more toughness. I gotta step up.
— Charlie Villanueva (@CVBelieve) March 15, 2009
2009 was kind of a stone age of social media and athletes couldn’t always know what to post. But even if you don’t get a proper education about the usage of social media, don’t post anything during the game. Your focus is on the field. I’m not here to teach you how to play, but the fans are expecting your A-game. Fun fact is that there weren’t any mentions about him getting fined, probably because there weren’t any guidelines in place.
3. Reggie Bush on Twitter (2011)
Everybody complaining about the lockout! Shoot I’m making the most of it! Vacation, rest, relaxing, appearances here and there! I’m good!
— Reggie Bush (@ReggieBush) May 10, 2011
If you aren’t on official vacation and there are some bigger things stopping your team from playing, no matter what sport do you play, don’t post about quantity of fun you’re having. Those aren’t normal situations and the fans want you on that field and they all want you to want the same thing. That’s your job.
4. Josh Sale on Facebook (2013)
Image source: Complex
This wasn’t the first or the only case with ”party” content of athletes profiles. But a reminder can come in handy. Just like the saying: The best nights are the ones you don’t upload.
5. Ricki Rubio on Twitter (2012)
Image source: Tumblr
Ricky Rubio, the Spanish basketball player for the Minnesota Timberwolves, offended many Mexicans with his joke. This example was a misunderstood joke between two teammates and it was perceived as a racist slant against Mexicans. You can post funny stuff regarding your teammates, but even though you get each other don’t post anything about culture, language, race, etc. Fans almost always find it offensive.
If it ever came to your mind to post anything like this, I’m glad if I stopped you. There are many stories and articles and case studies about good content on personal profiles and what that could bring you. But just like in any other field, education is the key of everything. That can bring you and your sport to a whole other level.
