ree mile runs, in 30 pound football pads in 100 degree weather are not unusual at all. Contrary to popular belief, this point of working hard does not only go towards the games played. As noted by Nelson, “Over 40 percent of all major injuries and more than 75 percent of all injuries happen during practice.” (Nelson, 32). Players are not only encouraged, but are demanded to give their utmost not only in game situations, but continuously. These traits mentioned above not only play an integral role in the realm of football but also in general to life in American society. The attributes of teamwork, loyalty and hard work are desirable in the work force of today. They are so desirable in fact, that many self-help gurus have made millions teaching many how to gain these traits and others they deem necessary for success. In teaching their players about the importance of these aforementioned qualities, high school football coaches have not only developed quality players, but have also instigated many of the qualities necessary for success in later life. Quite possibly the most controversial subject matter that has been brought to attention about high school football is the way players have had their beliefs influenced about sexuality, namely sexual preference. Many players and even coaches have come under fire from individuals that were unfairly discriminated against due to their sexual preference. In one case in Boise, Iowa, a high school senior, Timothy Watkins was repeatedly verbally abused and discriminated against by his coach for being homosexual, when the fact of the matter was that he was indeed not gay. In my own personal experiences my former football teams’ views of homosexuals were the antithesis of what football players should be. Football players were supposed to be tough and manly. Homosexuals on the other hand, were typecast as weak and unskilled, and depictions of them having lisps and “br...
