A Legal Battle for the Patriots
When the word “patriot” is mentioned, clear thoughts of heroic, courageous men often come to mind. What about visions of sly, dishonest people? Anyone with a negative description such as that would never be called a “patriot”.
Much like the Patriots of America’s past, the New England Patriots represent a team of devoted men who will fight until victory. These are the men who train, sweat and succeed. After countless seasons and pre-seasons of dedication, the New England Patriots hold the title of three Superbowl Championships.
As football season arrived this year, fans all over the nation were eager to watch their favorite teams battle towards a “W” on the scoreboard. No matter how hard the players had to push themselves, a victory was all that mattered. Apparently for the New England Patriots coaching staff, a victory must be a guarantee.
NFL security officials confiscated a camera and videotape from Patriots video assistant Matt Estrella on the New England sidelines when it was suspected he was recording the Jets’ defensive signals. Sources say the visual evidence confirmed the suspicion.
New York Jets coach, Eric Mangini, also former defensive coach for the New England Patriots, is said to have knowledge of the surveillance methods and decided to take action.
According to NFL commissioner, Roger Goodell, league rules were in fact violated, and disciplinary action would be taken. Goodell fined New England Patriots head coach, Bill Belichick $500,000 as well we as fining the team $250,000. The Patriots will also suffer a loss of first round draft choice, or second and third round picks.
“I would assume the team and the NFL worked together to determine the actual punishment and that the NFL probably added a little more than what the ownership wanted,” said Terry Holland, Athletic Director at East Carolina University. “the Commissioner of the NFL has shown that he is proactive and knowledgeable as to appropriate punishment for various offenses and I see no reason to second guess him on this one.”
Although the New England Patriots and coach Bill Belichick have not been suspended from any regular season games, the good name of the team has been tainted.
“No matter how good we do, people are always going to relate our wins to cheating,” said Mary Watterson, Rhode Island native and New England Patriots fanatic. “People are going to forget the fact that we have skilled players.”
The New England Patriots remain undefeated in the current 2007 season, recently gaining victory over the Dallas Cowboys who were also undefeated, until battling the Patriots.
Sources: Terry Holland, Athletic Director, East Carolina University
Chris Mortensen, ESPN.com
Mary Watterson, high school chemistry teacher, devoted New England Patriots fan
Filed under: Hard News