In the more than 7 years that I've been doing Sports Byline USA, one of the most emotional, passionate subjects the listeners and fans have discussed is whether or not athletes are role models. For the sake of clarity, the reference is to professional athletes. The biggest debate was sparked by Charles Barkley's assertion in a Nike commercial: "I'm not a role model."

The pragmatist in me says an argument can be made both ways. Barkley's assertion is certainly correct when the athlete is never asked whether they want or are prepared for role model stature and the accompanying responsibility that goes with it. Only a handful of athletes are qualified emotionally or equipped with the maturity to live up to the heavy burden that goes along with being viewed as a role model. The problem is that there is no job description. One fan thinks a good role model doesn't drink, smoke, cuss or grab his crotch during televised games. Another thinks if the athlete signs every autograph requested and doesn't flaunt his money by driving a Yugo, then he's a good role model.

There is strong belief among many fans that once an athlete signs his name on a professional sports contract, he gives up his right to be an individual and to lead his life as he sees fit. Instead, it must be led by the standards and expectations of the millions who watch him play. Athletes have told me, "I didn't ask to be a role model. I wasn't prepared to be a role model. I don't want to be a role model. I want to be me." Fair enough.

The other argument is that with certain professions come certain unspoken expectations and responsibilities. Airplane pilots know they shouldn't drink before jumping into the cockpit. Teachers know not to go around publicly on a windy day wearing nothing but a raincoat. And athletes know that by hitting a home run, scoring a touchdown or slam dunking, they are going to be revered, idolized and looked up to as an example. While it may be value focus gone fuzzy, it's still today's societal reality.

We're creatures of habit. We all have people we wish we could be like. Even if just for a day, we'd like to be in their shoes. Athletes can't have it both ways. They can't want the adulation, big salaries, media attention and big buck endorsements and not expect a price to be paid. Their life is no longer just theirs. It belongs to them, the fans, the media, and the game. That means they are role models. Don't like it? Don't play.

While there's no definitive answer as to whether or not athletes are role models, the best rule of thumb might be, judge ye as you would like to be judged.

I'm Ron Barr.