I'm not supporting his actions in the least, but don't you find it the least bit troubling that for the past few years, kids like Knox and Rhoades have their lives and actions put on a public forum for people to criticize, critique, and in some shape of form dismantle?
I have known both personally, have coached and worked with them. I would have both in my home, have dinner with them, and even let them stay with me.
However, there is that streak in them that makes you throw you hands in the air and scream.
The difference is that these are two outstanding wrestlers that many people want to see fail. Regardless of their child like demeanor (and we must remember, they are still kids), there are multitudes of adults out there that willingly act no better than a "bratty kid" and will openly boo them.
To me, that's a shame. Then again, maybe my parents brought me up a little bit better than to post my dissent of a kid under the faceless guize of a screen name to ridicule a kid. To the side, I'll may make a comment to both athletes, but I don't do it in an open forum.
Brent, you are absolutely right to defend Charles. I guarantee you there were people looking for a show with Knox during that match and he delivered. Sure I'm upset, but I take care of it my own way and will tell him how I feel when I see him this spring. I don't get on a message board and bash him.
By the way Brent, congrats on your finish.
And Tanner, congrats to you and I wish you luck in all you do. Also, thank you for seeing a situation about to unfold and preventing Charles' self distruction on the mat. You know, it's too bad that a senior in high school is able to show us a life lesson about preventing a disaster and takes control of the situation. The worst part is, some of us are too busy "placing blame" and are not able to see the bigger action unfold - a kid saving another kid in the face of a unforgiving adult crowd.
Jeremy Gibson
Seaman High School
