The NHL’s future in the Olympics

Every two to four years the Olympic Games spring up on us yet again.  Each year there are new controversies and topics of debate.  One recurring topic, however, is that of whether or not professional athletes should be allowed to compete in the games.  This discussion is especially rampant among events that involve the NHL, NFL, NBA, MLB, and soccer.

The main argument is that the Olympics are a worldwide event meant to bring countries together for healthy competition.  This has a way of promoting world peace and harmony.  The ideals that the Olympics were based on are still held in high regard, but have declined somewhat.  Originally, sports purists will say, the Olympics were an arena for amateur athletes to prove themselves and bring glory to their country.  This has evolved into a highly competitive venue for the world's highest paid, premier athletes. 

The Olympics have become a sort of marketing tool for up and coming sports and the companies that are related to them.  Take, for instance, the clothing the U.S. Olympians wore for the opening ceremonies in Vancouver.  Their clothes had a polo symbol that was as large or larger than the U.S.A. badge on the other side.  The Olympics are broadcast all over the world and seen on many different cable sports stations and this is a great way for sponsors to get their names out there. 

This marketing, however, goes both ways.  The Olympics do not bring the ratings that they used to.  The introduction of professional athletes into the Olympics helps their ratings rise.  Popular athletes also help the world audience appreciate some of the lesser-known sports that are showcased at these events.  When Kobe Bryant, Carmelo Anthony, or any other professional athlete from the NBA, NHL, or MLB, suit up for the Olympic team they can't help but bring a large following of viewers with them.

All marketing purposes aside, professional athletes set the bar for competition at the Olympic Games.  How can you have some events with professionals like Michael Phelps dominating the waters, and have other events that only take amateur players?  It sets an odd standard for Olympic Qualifiers.  It makes sense for each country to send the best of the best, and watch sports competition at it's highest level.  To be labeled "to good for the Olympics" puts the wrong kind of picture in people's heads.  The Olympics should be the peak of sports competition, all competitors meeting on equal grounds to battle out for the Gold.

The Olympics not only provide a small solution for world peace, but they are also a collaboration of venues meant to increase national pride.  No country wants to send amateurs when they have professionals that can compete.  Many individuals are very much opposed to the idea of professionals playing on the global stage, but in light of the times, professional athletes can leave a good impression on the future of the games.