Sports are for EVERYONE. And it better be in Russia.

So, remember my last post when I said that Johnny Manziel was a punk and I didn't like him? Multiply that by about 100 and that's where I have Vladimir Putin. 

What a loser. (If you don't know who this is, read a book.)

The Russian president signed a law in late June giving police officers the right to arrest and detain any tourists that they believe are homosexuals or advocates for same sex rights. A few days later on July 3, he banned the adoption of children in any same-sex families as well as homes run by couples or single parents where they come from a country that has marriage equality. 

About six months from now, Sochi will be hosting the Winter Olympic Games where countries with every varying stance and all kinds of folks will be making their way to Russia. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has assured the public that this law will not affect the Games. 

They say that now, but there is a more than realistic opportunity that any athlete, coach, trainer, supporter or reporter that somebody even believes is gay can be arrested. Imagine that. It's 2013 and people at a sporting event could be arrested because they love somebody. 

What a bunch of garbage. 

President Obama and British actor Stephen Fry have commented on this matter, blasting Putin and Russia for their stances, which I admire greatly. I wish I had some sort of public pull and social influence so millions could hear me bashing Putin. Alas, I have this blog and this is all I have. 

Let's get one thing straight, sports are for everyone. I don't care if you're straight, gay, in love with pecan pie or that human size cardboard cut out of Xenon the Warrior Princes; if you can play sports at the highest of levels and succeed, you should be allowed to represent your country.

I say come February, the United States Olympic Team rolls into the opening ceremonies with rainbow apparel on their person as they swagger right past Putin. Those countries, and people that do support gay rights should do the same. What are they going to do? Arrest every single athlete? I don't think that's feasible. 

Those representing us as Americans at the Olympic Games have a very important responsibility. Don't let this opportunity go by without making a statement. Stand up for what you believe in and for those that don't have the opportunity to do so. 

Oh, and if you didn't realize, I'm all for marriage equality or whatever you want to call it. Love is love. Simple as that.