The pressure of sports

So often in sports we take the athletes for granted. I know I am just as guilty as anybody else out there, too often I watch a reliever blow a lead, a two guard miss an open 3 in a clutch situation, or a QB throw a pick in the last two minutes and get upset. We say things like "that guy is a bum or why is he even in the big leagues" At games we shower the goat with boos and agree as he is ripped apart through the media. However after hearing the story of Ian Snell and his near mental collapse after being sent down to the minors, I was brought back to reality. Ian Snell recently came out and admitted that as he was struggling mental as he was failing in the big leagues and was sent back down. He talked about how he fell into depression and thought about suicide, but thankfully thought better and is using it as a source of strength as he battles to return to the big leagues.

Too often we forget the massive amount of pressure these players face. They walk out in front of thousands of people (or hundreds if they play for the Marlins) and in front of millions on live TV or highlight shows. Not to mention in the cutthroat world of professional sports a few bad performances can end the dream before it even begins. Yes they are massively well compensated but that can only increase the pressure. A high paid CEO can work in obscurity and will have years to work on their company.

Now I am not saying that professional athletes should be immune from criticism because after all it is their job. I am saying that sometimes we as fans we take for granted the amount of pressure these athletes are under. So the next time you see an athlete make a mistake or blow a game, just stop an appreciate the stress and pressure that he is under, then feel free to get upset at the result. Just remember that the athlete is probably 100 times more upset than you are.