Ford’s radio threats are classic bullying

Re War of words heats up between Stintz, Fords, April 29 After reading of Mayor Rob Ford’s threats to use his weekly radio broadcast to throw a spotlight on any city councillors who were audacious enough to request a special council meeting to discuss revenue sources to fund transit development across the GTA, it seemed to me a perfect example of intimidation that fits the definition of bullying. Together with disparaging comments toward political opponents and his consistently negative approach to recognizing the city’s LGBT community in annual celebrations during Pride Week, this paints a discouraging picture of the role model presented to young men in their formative years as they participate in football teams he sponsors. As a young athlete I was witness to misogynistic and homophobic slurs from coaches trying to cement their reputation as “tough guys.” Later, as a coach myself, I was shocked and disappointed in myself as I thoughtlessly imitated their behaviour, before learning that genuine interest and mutual respect are the keys to truly inspiring coaching.

The positive reaction to an NBA basketball player’s announcement that he is gay and the positive action taken by the NHL in the “You Can Play” program and celebrities coming out in the “It Gets Better” campaign suggest that people like Ford, Don Cherry et al. are becoming neanderthals in sport.

Thirty years ago, as a coach, I recall overhearing one of my athletes, who was a member of the Toronto police morality squad, recalling with relish how his squad had “bashed some queers” the night before. To my shame, I remained silent.

Thankfully there are braver people and better role models influencing young athletes today, but I doubt Rob Ford is one of them. Michael Heuer, Toronto