Violence in sports

"VIOLENCE IN SPORT is a physical assault or ot physically harmful actions by a player that takes place in a sports context and that is intended to cause physical pain or injury to another player (orfan, coach, game official, etc.), where such harmful actions bear no direct relationship to the rules and associated competitive goals of the sport". (Canadian Centre For Ethics In Sport)

A LOOK ATSOME OF THE THEORIES
There are a few proposed theories for the explanation of violence in sports. They include biological, psychological and social learning theories.
Biological theory suggeststhat aggression is a basic, inherent human condition. Therefore, having said this, sport is considered to be an acceptable method for athletes to let off steam or pent-up aggression.
Psychologicaltheory, on the other hand, relies on the concept of "frustration" as the main cause for the occurrence of violence in sports. With the pressures of the game--such as fans who heckle players, questionablecalls made by the officials, and player's egos--frustration can build up to the point where outbursts of violence can occur.
Social learning theory maintains that violent behaviour is learned through"modelling". Furthermore, rewards and punishments ultimately reinforce this behaviour. Therefore, when kids see their favourite sports heroes on TV, they are more than likely going to try and imitatethem. So, those who happen to idolize an enforcer from a NHL hockey team may see violence as an acceptable means for making it to the NHL where, subsequently, millions ($) are to be made.
NOW TO THEREAL NEWS...
Most of us are aware by now that on Feb. 2, 2000 in the confines of GM Place in Vancouver, Marty McSorley took a cowardly swing, from behind, at Donald Brashear's head with his hockeystick. I think it is safe to say that the sports world was pretty much left in a state of shock and disgust over the whole situation. Most were in disbelief that an athlete, especially one from an...