Emerald City Outcasts

Recently, two of the Seattle Seahawks football players attended a $1000-a-plate fundraiser for pro-Iraq War Congressman Dave Reichert. Mack Strong (pictured on the left) and Matt Hasselbeck (right) gave Our President a #43 Seahawks jersey in appreciation for attending. Unfortunately for the duo, the aftermath they've experienced within their liberal leaning city may make them wish for more than the scheduled eight away games.

Hasselbeck, a two time Bush voter, told of the many messages he received- "To learn that two of the most popular Seahawks are strong (Bush) supporters ruins the season for me an my family" one read.

Another said "Who is Matt Speaking for? Bush is no Seahawk. He is the worst president of my lifetime, and I'm almost 60. Shame on you, Matt."

Maybe the emphasis placed on professional athletes to attempt to please all their fans is completely unrealistic? Underneath athletic uniforms house real individuals with varied opinions. Both Strong and Hasselbeck have the right to 'support' anyone they wish and can attend political events at their leisure. That being said, anyone who was in attendance at the fundraiser to help enhance Congressman Reichert's campaign finances has an obligation to consider enlisting, if eligible, or encourage their family and friends to enlist if they themselves do not meet The Military's criteria. Since both Mr. Hasselbeck and Mr. Strong are of age (younger than 42) and healthy (they had to have passed the NFL physical exam), they have created for themselves an obligation to at least contemplate serving in Our Armed Forces.

If the idea of serving may still elude the backfield tandem, we ask all football and non-football fans to contact the athletes to help them make the decision to trade in their shoulder pads for Kevlar vests. Mr. Hasselbeck has a website urging fan participation and Mr. Strong can be reached using the Seahawks Official Website. And if you're fortunate enough to be in a NFL city where the Seahawks will be visiting, be sure to enter the stadium early and personally deliver the message of Be A Man! Enlist! to the Pro Bowl elites during the pre-game warm up. After all, this may be the only chance in your life you are able to yell at millionares.

Hat tip to Talking Points Memo.