GenQ - For the not so straight individual

Ian Thorpe is a hero. And not just because of his sporting achievements like everyone is saying. I think he is a hero because, in the face of all the pressure, Thorpe still made a choice based on his own thoughts and feelings. Despite the challenging swimming competitions and races and all the stressful media interviews he has been through, his recent decision to quit professional swimming would have to have been one of the toughest, most nerve wracking experiences of his life. And I for one applaud him for following his heart, when most of those around him appear to be against his early retirement.

I never really paid a lot of attention to Ian Thorpe. Sure, he was a fine athlete and won us a lot of Olympic medals but other than that, he was just another famous Australian to me. However, seeing his latest media statement, I realised he has more to offer than just on a physical sporting level. His intelligence and bravery to understand philosophically that his life was not completely fulfilled and then to act on those beliefs, is an inspirational notion to all of us.

Although a lot of others, especially those in the sporting and swimming communities, believe Thorpe has retired too soon, I believe that if it feels right to him, then it shouldn't matter when he retires. I find it very inspiring that Thorpe admitted to losing motivation and that that issue was the main factor in his decision. He also realised the fact that had he continued with the sport it would have been for someone else and not for him. His courage to state in front of the media (and therefore Australia and most of the world) that he believed he was finished with swimming should send out a message to youths that just because you are good at something doesn't mean you necessarily have to do it.

This brings to the surface another issue of parental pressure on children to pursue a sport or hobby to the point of professional competition. Not to say that Thorpe was one of these children but the issues he raised during his media interview should bring strength to children and teenagers who feel that they are living a life someone else wanted for them and not the one they necessarily had in mind. Thorpe also said that he, like a lot of people his age, don't quite know what to do with their life but he was looking forward to finding out. Not at all did he mention what his next move was but it didn't take the media long to start presumptions and rumours on his future, such as movie stardom. Personally, that pissed me off. If any media journalists are reading this: Leave the poor bloke alone! He just quit a sport that took up his whole life and has no idea what he wants to do next and already you slap a label on him! Lay off. Let him work it out himself.

Anyway, I merely wanted to express my pride in Ian Thorpe's admission and heartfelt realization. Also he stood up to the media in a way I'm not sure he fully understands the effect of. His idol status has truly reached a peak and young Australians (as well as old) should look up now more than ever and take note: Here is a man who didn't quite know what he wanted but he's not afraid to take the steps to find out. Best of luck mate.

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