The Tug-of-War between Branding and Harassment on Social Media for College Athletes
In today’s digital age, college athletes find themselves at the center of a troubling paradox: the channels that grant them visibility and financial opportunities are becoming hosts of relentless harassment. According to NPR, as social media platforms continue to flourish, the darker sides of these channels are growing equally robust, pushing athletes to question the true cost of their online presence.
The Double-Edged Sword of Social Media
Social media promised a new frontier for college athletes — a chance to build a personal brand, connect with fans, and earn through sponsorships. However, this promise is increasingly overshadowed by a flood of online abuse. For athletes like Cam Corhen, a forward for the Pittsburgh Panthers, the issue cannot be overstated. “I messed somebody’s parlay up, I guess, and I got some crazy messages,” Corhen recalls, highlighting the unintended consequences of deepening involvement in social media.
When Harassment Outweighs Profit
Athletes, once encouraged to step into the digital spotlight, are now retreating. The online abuse is harmful to their mental health, prompting players and coaches alike to consider whether maintaining an online presence is truly worthwhile. Emanuel Sharp of Houston and Gianna Kneepkens of UCLA illustrate how even modest followings can lead to lucrative partnerships. Nonetheless, the emotional toll of continuous scrutiny and vitriol is leading many to reconsider their priorities.
Coaches and Players Changing Course
Many athletic departments now employ staff dedicated to curating ‘creative content’ for athletes, aiming to capitalize on the visibility social media offers. Despite these efforts being tied to earning potential, coaches like Jeff Capel of Pittsburgh emphasize that players should focus first on excelling at their sport. Capel’s experience highlights a need for athletes to find balance or risk losing focus, both on and off the field.
A Reflection on Identity: A Fresh Start
Consider Reniya Kelly of UNC, who dreams of leaving the pressures of social media behind to live off the land. Such aspirations resonate with a wider sentiment among athletes to disentangle from the relentless online judgment.
A Resolution?
Ultimately, as athletes like Indiana’s Oumar Ballo suggest, the answer lies in setting firm boundaries and demanding respect. The call for change grows louder: support systems must evolve alongside social media strategies to protect athletes from the very platforms designed to empower them.
In conclusion, the narrative surrounding the relationship between college athletes and social media is complex. The benefits remain significant, yet the cost — both emotional and mental — is high. The question remains: Is it worth it?
