The Minnesota Vikings haven’t pillaged every stadium they’ve stepped in this year, but regardless of how many W’s they’ve racked up, they’re sticking to a weekly ritual: sharing a meal after Friday practice. This is supposed to be a time to relax and hang out, when players can forget their frustrations about the season and enjoy each other’s company.
The event is sponsored by the Vikings, and players, coaches and staff are expected to be on their best behavior while dining out. At last week’s team meal, Randy Moss, now a former Viking wideout, lost sight of that expectation and ended up losing his cool as well. Moss humiliated the team by disrespecting the restaurant owner who provided the food. With most players and coaches complimenting the restauranteur, Moss spewed out inappropriate comments about the food and the restaurant, embarrassing the organization and leaving many of his teammates disgusted with his lack of respect. Moss’ outburst resulted in his dismissal from the team.
No matter how the food tasted (it was the fifth Vikings’ event at the restaurant, so it was probably pretty good), Moss’ behavior was unacceptable. He apparently overlooked the fact that he was representing not just himself, but the entire Vikings organization. No team, coach or player wants a teammate who heedlessly tarnishes the organization’s reputation. In a situation such as a team function or meal, it’s best for an athlete to keep his personal opinion to himself, try a few bites of food, and thank whoever hosted the dinner.
Learn from Randy Moss. Before you decide to make an immature comment during any team-organized function, think about whom you represent and what the consequences may be if you lose control of your tongue.
Source:  blog.citypages.com, ktsp.com
Photo:  msn.foxsports.com