Sam Acho Discusses Civility in Sports and Society

Former NFL player and current ESPN NFL analyst Sam Acho recently attended the Reagan Civility & Democracy Forum hosted by the Ronald Reagan Foundation Center. At this event, he emphasized the importance of fostering civility among Americans, especially in the realm of sports.

“We discussed how the attributes athletes use in sports, such as sportsmanship, adhering to rules, and dealing with wins and losses constructively, can be applied to civil discourse,” Acho shared in an interview with Fox News Digital.

Athletes and Civil Discourse

Acho, who has transitioned from being a professional athlete to a prominent figure in sports media, shared his insights on the role of athletes and sports media in promoting civility. Addressing the question of civil discourse, he noted that disagreements are natural. “In football, opinions on defense strategies differ, but the ultimate goal is to win.” He suggested that, in society, despite differing views on laws or approaches, the main objective should be to improve the country.

Politics in the Locker Room

When asked if political discussions occur in NFL locker rooms, Acho affirmed their presence. He described debates ranging from sports difficulty comparisons to serious political discussions. He recalled moments when players discussed presidential opinions and significant political events, like Colin Kaepernick’s national anthem protest.

Handling Uncivil Moments

Acho acknowledged that, like any family or team, conversations might cross lines occasionally. “When that happens, an apology or an effort to make it right typically follows,” he explained. Despite disagreements, teammates quickly returned to work, emphasizing the importance of resolving conflicts and maintaining focus.

Role of Athletes in Promoting Civility

Acho highlighted the unique platform athletes possess. He encouraged athletes and sports figures to use their influence to speak up on important issues and to educate themselves. He advised athletes to recognize their value beyond sports performances and to understand their potential impact.

Media’s Role in Civil Discourse

Acho stressed the importance of sports media figures using their platform responsibly. Referencing Pat McAfee’s success on ESPN, he pointed out that media figures, many of whom are former athletes, have significant influence over public opinion. He urged them to focus on stewarding this influence wisely rather than seeking power or popularity.

Consequences of Poor Stewardship

As an example of poor stewardship, Acho recounted an incident during a Texas vs. Georgia game where fans reacted negatively to a referee’s call. He highlighted that such behavior, even if it results in a favorable call, reflects poorly on the community. Acho urged sportspersons and media figures to acknowledge mistakes openly and avoid condoning inappropriate actions.