Professional athletes provide contributions to COVID-19 relief efforts

COVID-19 has impacted the world in more ways than just the obvious need for social distancing. For many people such as hourly workers who have been laid off, this epidemic has meant a new fear of needing to find a source of income. This is one of the several understated issues arising from the tragic virus. It is a time that requires cooperation from all types of people no matter their situation or social standing. One group of people making an effort to assist with COVID-19 relief efforts are professional athletes.

Across all sport leagues globally, professional athletes are assisting with donations, virtual support for fighting the virus, and even the creation of charities built for virus donations. Sports are a massive medium, and for countless amounts of people the absence of sporting events has left holes in lifestyles. While some people may not understand the impact, professional athletes have on fans, a large majority of people look to these athletes for inspiration during times of struggle because of the hardships many athletes face on the way to reaching success.

The NBA is one sports league at the forefront of acts of charity supporting those struggling to fight the virus. Players across the league and even some GM’s have been incredibly vocal on social media about staying positive during the epidemic, and have shown large amounts of kindness for those suffering in their areas. Cleveland Cavaliers player Kevin Love is one such player who has recently donated 100,000 dollars to hourly workers at their home arena in order to make sure they receive some income while the NBA is suspended. He is not alone in this action, with Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban promising to pay all salaries of the hourly workers at their arena. After learning of Mark Cuban’s decision, most teams across the league are following suit, making sure that the people that make sure games run smoothly are compensated for the work they put in day in and day out. Other big name players such as Joel Embid, Karl Anthony Towns, Blake Griffin, and Giannis Antetokounmpo have also made large donations towards arena worker salaries.

Another forefront for COVID-19 support has been overseas with European professional soccer players donating massive amount of their wages to local hospitals struggling to cope with the overwhelming amount of cases. Two of the greatest players to grace the sport, Lionel Messi of F.C. Barcelona and Cristiano Ronaldo of Juventus, have led the efforts to curb COVID’s effects. Both athletes have donated one million dollars to hospitals in their hometowns and the cities of their famous clubs. On top of these donations, players like Messi  have also encouraged the idea of almost 70% in pay cuts for their team that will allow hourly workers at the club and in their cities to be paid accurately. Other professional soccer players such as Jordan Henderson of Liverpool have organized league wide charities that will raise millions in aid.

Professional athletes such as these are examples of why people look towards sports for inspiration. Athletes understand they would not be in their position without their fans, and are making an effort to support those who support them. It is an example of the brilliant kindness being displayed during a time of darkness.

These types of stories are imperative for people to hear in order for them to remember to keep their faith and help those around them any way possible. Money isn’t the only way those around you can be supported. Even the simple act of being a positive energy, can help the people your close to keep their hopes up and be positive as well. Despite the negatives this virus has brought, there are positives to be welcomed, so let some more of the happy in.