Green Bay’s starting quarterback, Aaron Rogers, lashed out against the media after he received criticism for not speaking to reporters after the University of Wisconsin’s win against Arizona to advance to the Final Four.
Rogers is not an alumnus of the University of Wisconsin, but it seems that his love for the state of Wisconsin has rubbed off on him. He even watched the Badgers beat North Carolina in the Sweet Sixteen last Thursday, according to the Washington Post.
He has also befriended a few of Wisconsin’s star players, like forward Sam Dekker, who had a career-high 27 points in his team’s game against Arizona.
Although Rodgers has succeeded in becoming friends with the players, his “friendly persona” in the media realm was shot after he declined an interview while descending to the court’s floor after Wisconsin’s win over Arizona.
The incident caused sports reporter Dennis Dodd to then go on a Twitter rampage, ripping the quarterback to shreds, due to Rodger’s poor behavior.
“Aaron Rodgers in one of the biggest moments in the state’s history — ignoring how media has shaped his image — “I’m not doing interviews,” wrote Dodd.
In response to Dodd, Rodgers fired back with a few tweets of his own. In one tweet, he referred to Dodd as “the biggest crybaby of the night,” and later commented how he doesn’t always have to agree to interviews.
Indeed, it’s clear that Rodgers has the right to say no to interview requests, especially if he is merely a spectator trying to enjoy a big game.
However, Rodgers was not only called out for not agreeing to an interview. Dodds also spiked an issue with Rodgers having a personal court pass.
“Dear Wisco fan: If it was about the Badgers, then why was A Rodgers on court? Credentialed media only,” wrote Dodd.
As a journalist myself, it was very simple when figuring out where I stand on this issue.
When all is said and done, Dodd is right.
Rodgers had no business being on the court. He is not the media, coaching staff, or a player, thus why should he be allowed access?
Just because Rodgers is a Super Bowl winning  NFL quarterback doesn’t mean he should receive special privileges.
In my mind, it’s very tough being a journalist in that high-profile of a game. It’s not easy to snatch players for interviews. Players and coaches are being pulled in every direction, why add another distraction with Rodgers’ appearance?
Rodgers’ appearance on the court almost took away from the shine of the collegiate athletes. It’s obvious that his presence is never looked over, considering the numerous requests for interviews. The spotlight should solely be focused on the athletes in the game, not a famous fan.
Dodd’s crucial call out can be seen as shocking, but definitely a gutsy move that future reporters should look to follow and emulate, if an incident like this arises again.
I can see where both sides make valid points. But Rodgers should never have been allowed on the court. It’s the media’s domain, not stomping grounds for professional athletes.