People who know me know that I am extremely passionate about very few things. But the Pittsburgh Steelers are at the top of that short list. I was born in Pittsburgh in the 70s and was raised a Steelers fan. I truly understand the whole “bleed black and gold” thing. Even living in Indianapolis, I have never waivered in my love of MY team.

However, the rumors that the Steelers are looking at signing Michael Vick just make me sick to my stomach. I’ve read all of the commentary. Stallworth gets drunk and drives and accidentally kills someone. How is that different? First of all, I didn’t say that I wanted Stallworth either. But second, and more importantly, it is the CHARACTER of Michael Vick that I can’t stand the thought of. I know sports figures aren’t super heroes. They aren’t supposed to be perfect. But at the same time, I can’t help but think that a person who used his bare hands to torture animals and found it funny is not the kind of person I want my kids to cheer for. EVER.

Yes, he served his time. That’s why he isn’t in jail anymore. Does he deserve a second chance? At what? Having a life? Sure. Being looked up to by thousands of kids and making millions of dollars to do something he loves doing? Nope. He lost that right. He can start his life over as a garbage man for all I care. He can make an honest living doing something that doesn’t involve me and my kids cheering him on. Would I want my kid wearing his jersey? Never in a million years.

People say that our team would be better with Michael Vick. It is true that he might elevate our skill set. But would the TEAM all like working with him? I’d rather lose every game this season than win with Michael Vick on the field.

If the Steelers sign Michael Vick, I will end my time as a fan. It will hurt for awhile because the Steelers are such a huge part of my life. But sometimes you feel so strongly about something that you are willing to take a stand. As such, I have created an online petition. No one will probably care how many signatures we get,  but I will feel better that I did something rather than just sat back and watched it happen.

http://www.petitiononline.com/stlrs09/petition.html

Comment away. I encourage the discussion. Just don’t be surprised if you don’t change my mind.