Athletes as role models?

Nah, they should be fined for breaking the rules against fighting. And if they cause serious injury, they should be arrested for criminal battery.

I supposed I phrased the question wrong. How to classify someone as a poor role model would be one who breaks the rules. I like your opinions- simple enough! My concern is that young athletes who model themselves after professional athletes accept the consequences as do their "role models" and continue to repeat these offences.

If these young athletes are 18 or older, it is presumed, at least under the law, that they know better, as is the case with every other member of society. If they are under 18, they should be looking to parents, teachers, coaches as role models and in general not at pro athletes. Accepting responsibility is a part of the maturation process; adults who fail to do so can find their lives and property severely restricted. Woe be to the child that wants that as a model.