Did Superstar Poem Wrecks BYU's Historic Season
Girls have a button, boys have a pole and wicked touching takes its
toll. Did wicked touching indeed take its toll on Brigham Young
University star basketball player, Brandon Davies?
It seems that the
catchy poem from the priest in "Superstar," may be spot on in the story
of Brandon who was suspended from the BYU team when it came to light
that he had sex with his girlfriend. Why, you may ask, is the basketball
team "all up in his business?" The answer is from the school's code of conduct. Brandon Davies
signed the mandatory honor's code which states he will live a "chaste and virtuous" life. Simply put, he will not have premarital sex.
A private university, Brigham Young is owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Most know them as Mormon's, a religion whose tenets are strongly rooted in honesty, clean living, pure language, active participation in church, modest dress and grooming, including only one set of pierced ears for women, and abstinence from alcohol, tobacco, drugs, coffee and tea. The school's over 30,000 students are mainly members of the church and part of their service is two years of missionary work.
What makes this suspension extremely interesting, is the fact that the school swiftly made the decision, even in light of the potential for a historic year in men's basketball. Up until Davies' suspension, the team had a 27-2 season and a great shot at a number one seed in the NCAA tournament during March Madness. But after his suspension, the team feel hard against New Mexico, a team they were almost assured to beat.
Further, at a time where sports have taken over everything, including academics, it is amazing a team would give such a harsh punishment. Athletics brings in millions of dollars a year to universities, and a winning season not only brings in the funding, but also future player's attentions. But one must admire the school's dedication to their code and beliefs.
But, is it realistic to think that kids (and college kids especially) will not have sexual relations? While some studies are showing a return to virginity being en vogue, hormones do take over. Is an honor's code an antiquated clause that sets people up for failure? Or is it the stuff that shows what one is made of? Further, in this situation, just how did the information come about? Who found out and told? Did everyone involved confess? What about the girl? Did she get punishment? There are so many questions, and some will never be answered.
The school took a stand and Brandon Davies fell. The sad thing is his decisions affect the school, the team, and undoubtedly his own belief system. I'm sure he questions his decision, the school's decision, and the publicity surrounding what should have been an intimate thing between two consenting adults in a loving and committed relationship.
As Thomas Paine so eloquently state, "these are the times that try men's souls." Hopefully this trying time for Brandon Davies will be one of quiet reflection, soul searching, and perseverance for a strong future, and in this he will shine brightly with a strong sense of who he is and who he will become.
Donellen: I have to say I stand with BYU on this one. I have to respect their willingness to stand by their founding principles in the face of losing a lot athletically. There are consequences to every action, and this young man knew when he signed those papers what he was expected to live up. I wish that other institutions had the integrity to live up to some sort of code or principle. Too many seem to "pick" their principles as the wind changes. (03/09/11)
Mom: Once he signed that paper, he should have lived up to it. He now has shown his willingness to have sex and he is not to be trusted. How can anyone believe him on anything else he has to say? Maybe it is antiquated but it is still there policy. Don't take the education they offered and ignore their rules. (03/10/11)