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Michael Vick was scheduled to appear at a youth football camp and his own celebrity golf tournament today. Vick missed both events because his probation officer restricted him from leaving the state. This decision was based on a shooting that occurred on June 30th. Although, Vick is not a suspect or even involved in the shooting, he was involved in a confrontation with the victim earlier that night. The confrontation took place at Vicks 30th birthday party, where the victim was not an invited guest. The victim in the shooting was the co-defendant in the dog fighting case that landed Vick in prison. Vick is on probation for three years following this dog fighting case.

Camp Elite Sports organized a two day youth football camp that featured Philadelphia, Quarterback, Michael Vick as a special guest. Vick was given a $2000. deposit, of a $4000 appearance fee that he was getting for his appearance at the youth camp. Campers paid $175. for a package that was to include photographs with the NFL player and autographs.

My thoughts

First let me just say that as an animal lover and dog owner, I am not a huge fan of Michael Vick. Dog fighting is a terrible crime, that disgust me. With that said, I am big on forgiveness and second chances. ( “let he without sin cast the first stone”). Professional athletes are human and make mistakes like the rest of us.

I think that it is admirable that he was involved in a charity golf event, and even though he was getting paid I respect professional athletes that get involved with youth programs. I can’t say for sure if his motives were good or just PR, to improve his image. I will assume they were for the right reasons.

I understand that not all athletes make crazy money, and they are subject to short careers if they are injured. I also know that it is a job and that they work extremely hard at what they do. However, professional athletes are generally blessed with great talent and are often grossly overpaid to entertain us. My point is: ” to he much is given, much is expected.” I feel that it is a good thing for athletes to give back to the community and try to be a positive influence for the young people that love and support them. You will get back, what you put out – so make it good.

As a mother raising boy’s and surrounded by young athletes, I know how important an event with a professional athlete is to kids. Every professional athlete was once just a little kid with a big dream. I hope that Vick will return the $2000. deposit to Camp Elite Sports, I am sure they are a non-profit organization. I would also like to see him do something to make it up to the kids. Maybe an autographed football for each kid, he could also volunteer to appear (for free) at another event with Camp Elite Sports. I wish Michael Vick the best of luck with his second chance and at turning his life around.

I welcome your thoughts and comments.
Please, keep the language clean. Thank you.

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