Cam Newton as a Positive Role Model

By KAJ PATEL

Carolina Panthers Quarterback Cam Newton  has recently  been criticized for his unique celebratory dancing dubbed ‘the dab’ in the end zone. Critics have called his antics “immature” and “possessing low sportsmanship qualities.”

But for Newton, the judgment does not phase him. He remains determined to be a good leader, and a positive role model for young sports fans.

“Nobody made me act a certain type of way and I’m true to my roots. It feels great, but yet, people are going to say whatever they want to say,” stated Newton in a press release before Super Bowl 50.

Newton’s Philanthropy Work

In fact, Newton has been involved in philanthropy work to positively impact the lives of children across the nation. He gets them involved physically with sports, but also teaches them qualities of being sportsman-like.

Besides his hard work on the field, Newton is also the founder of the Cam Newton Foundation, which aims to ensure that children’s socioeconomic, educational, physical, and emotional needs are enhanced.

He does this by hosting a Kick Ball tournament, Kids Rock Gala, Thanksgiving Jam, Santa Cam’s Surprise Sleigh, and a High School Tournament all aimed at improving the lifestyles of these children and giving them equal opportunities despite the financial standing of their families.

“Newton’s dab doesn’t bother me when you hear about all this work he does for others,” said Panthers fan, Vinny Kennedy of Ramapo College.”He’s a popular figure so people will have their opinions, but as long as he keeps doing what he does on the field, he can do the Macarena in the end zone for all I care.”

The Past

As Cam Newton’s media coverage increased leading up to the Super Bowl, fans began to speculate if Newton’s race had a hand in the criticism surrounding him.

Until the 1950s, the ” modern quarterback” position did not exist. So to track the number of African American quarterbacks is a controversial task. But in 2014, Russell Wilson was considered only the second African American quarterback to start and win a Super Bowl. This could stem from the fact that historically African American football players do not usually play in the quarterback position, but instead are placed in linemen and receiver roles.

Cam Newton played the quarterback position his entire football career, and despite any controversy as an African American he went on to lead the Carolina Panthers to the Super Bowl in 2016.

Popular Figures Weigh In

In the light of this criticism, popular entertainment figures have come to Newton’s defense. Lil Wayne, renowned rapper, was interviewed by SportsCenter and said how people should not worry about what others do, and just let them be themselves. Newton is a sports figure, and in Lil Wayne’s opinion we should just enjoy him for what he does.

As the criticisms roll in, fans of the Panthers will look to see if Newton will continue to be a strong leader for their team and bring them to another Super Bowl in 2017.

“Cam Newton isn’t just a great football player, he’s a great guy,” said Matt Traynor of Secaucus, NJ. “He’s just like the players I looked up to when I was growing up, so I don’t see the reason for the criticism.”