ALL sports fans, not just football fans, should praise Mr. Martin?s immeasurable contribution to the entire sports world. This classy man brought back memories of fairness, respect for one's opponent, and graciousness in winning or losing to those who long for a time when money, power, and fame was not the reason they played the game.
Interesting post. Knowing what we do about Curtis Martin we know he did not play for the love of the game. It was more of a means to an end. I think in his case he saw his potential to be able to do greater things, and make a butt-load of cash to afford his ideas and future pursuits. He saw the NFL as a vehicle to something greater. Still very commendable as well.
While most of that is very true (and not exactly new news, either), it's certainly not fair to think he didn't play for the love of the game at all. His work ethic, durability, toughness (running on two strained ankles), and his respect for the former greats (Jim Brown) all indicate that he did have great passion for the game of football as well.
I don't have the articles I have read in the past, but I got the distinct impression that he did not really care that deeply about the game itself. I am sure he appreciates the league and the team and what he got from it, but in the same breath he worked very hard and deserved all that came his way. I just got that impression though that he was not much of a football fan. I would think that would be different given his time in the game and now his obvious interest in ownership, but owning a team is yet another vehicle and another platform for his own interests.
He actually said on wfan he fell in love with the game once he became a pro.. In college he didnt care that much.
