Reflection 07: C'mon, That's Not a Sport—What Is and Isn't a Sport

What are the guidelines for defining an activity as a sport?

Baseball definitely is. So are hockey and volleyball. And, of course, football. In America, there are those recreational activities that are, without question, a "sport." Without hesitation we label certain endeavors as sports, and, in turn, those who participant in them are called athletes. Yet, not all activities are so easily labeled as sports. Activities as varied as synchronized swimming, arm wrestling, auto racing, and hunting have vied to be labeled a sport. But just what is a sport? For example, why are football players unquestionably athletes, yet the cheerleaders who encourage them are not? What is the criteria by which we judge these activities and are they all judged equally? What is the difference between a sport and a game? For this reflection, consider those endeavors that you consider to be sports—and those you do not.

Include at least two of the following in your discussion:

• "Settling the Debates: Is It a Sport or Not a Sport?" (Bleacher Report)
• "Poker is Definitely Not a Sport" (Yahoo! Sports)
• "Cheerleading Doesn't Count as a Real Sport, Judge Rules" (Christian Science Monitor)
• "Is Ballroom Dancing a Sport?" (Guardian)

Required:

• MLA Style
• Must be exactly two pages in length
• A Works Cited page 

Due: Th 4.19