WGN Morning News Blog

Why is it that anytime a professional athlete cries on TV (save for the times he or she actually has something worth crying about, like, say a tragedy), we all have the same initial reaction?

Belly laughter.

I don't know. Maybe there's just something about a hulking man weeping over a missed field goal, that on some level is just so . . . satisfying to shmoes like you and me.

I guess it allows us to say, "Yeah, you make more money than me. You have all sorts of hot women throwing themselves at you. Thousands of people scream for you every week. You have a pet llama. But HA HA, you cried on national TV after missing a free throw!!!"

I'm not saying it's right that we have a tinge of this sentiment, nor that it's not a bit disturbing.

But it is true.

So as seeing how much we all enjoy the spectacle (nearly as much as the action on the field or court), I propose they build a Hall of Fame for it. And I've already picked the first class for induction.

Dick Vermeil- the famous football coach would cry over a generous pre-game spread.

John Elway- the first man to snort during a retirement speech (a true pioneer)

Mark Messier- the hockey great bawled when he was picked first in the draft . . . in BANTAMS!

If I'm leaving anyone out, let me know. Some have already suggested Terrell Owens, after his post-game breakdown yesterday. What struck me so much about this episode is 1) Terrell is a first time crier, and 2) his history suggests he wouldn't care so much about his quarterback.

Watch below to see what I mean.