The Issue With Dr. Fauci’s First Pitch

Here’s The Issue With Dr. Fauci's First Pitch

Every single person alive speaks “ball.” Put a ball in front of a baby, they know what to do with it. If the ball is on the ground, we kick it; in the air, we catch it.

However, Dr. Fauci speaking “ball” was vulgar. That video should have a disclaimer before watching it...

Here’s why it struck a nerve!

1- It’s Reflective of Society

I see far too many kids who can’t kick or throw a ball and thus never try it again. It crushes my spirit. 

The lack of basic skills lead to sedentary lifestyle. Hence, sport no longer becomes a vehicle that can be used to help a kid build the mental skills for life. It’s an issue when the direct avenue of building confidence through sport or movement is removed.

2- Egomaniac with an inferiority complex

Yes, he was invited by the Nationals and Dr. Fauci's first pitch was from an athlete. He runs 3 miles everyday... 

But he knew he couldn’t throw.

He supposedly actually practiced to get ready for this event (so I’ll give him that). But if someone can't sing the national anthem, why would they attempt to sing it. 

So was the real motivation just so he could have the stage? 

3- Symbolical

The best ceremonial first pitch EVER was when President (Dubya) Bush threw out the world series pitch after 9-11. That was intense and it represented unity and strength for our country. No politics or rhetoric, just symbolism and hope. 

Dr. Fauci's first pitch debacle looked liked a sideshow circus. He made fun of it afterwards, which is all you could do really, but after everything we’ve been going through in 2020, come on, get it right. 

4- Ignorance

This is my slanted bias.

I just don’t get it. How can you not throw a ball?

I don’t pretend to know anything about medical science and do not bash his erudition at all.

What I’m saying is that I’m the one ignorant about it.  I don’t understand it and that’s my issue, but it also draws my ire.

5- They Don’t Boo Nobodies

If it was a nobody trying to heave that ball, then no one would have cared, nor rushed to defend him.

Thus, I don’t see the need to defend this showmanship of uncoordinated behavior. 

People rush to his defense and cite “he’s a doctor, he shouldn’t even have to be a novice at it." However, that just rubs dirt into the very fabric the art of sport and diminishes the importance of physical activity and coordination all together. 

I get it, it was Dr. Fauci's first pitch. 

It doesn't matter in the grand scheme of things and our society.

But, it's also why I think these symbolic events should be done correctly. We are suffering and are in need of inspiration, not mockery. 

 

Dr. Rob Bell is a Sport Psychology Coach. His company DRB & associates coach executives and professional athletes and is based in Indianapolis. Some clients have included three winners on the PGA Tour, Indy Eleven, University of Notre Dame, Marriott, and Walgreens. 

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