Southwest Corner

Big Ben

June 15, 2006

My hat, or rather, helmet is off to Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who single handedly risked his life and professional football career to promote the cause of motorcycle safety.

Roethlisberger was seriously injured two days ago when the motorcycle he was driving collided with a four-wheel vehicle. Big Ben, without thought for his personal safety, planted his face firmly into the windshield of a car turning in front of him. Roethlisberger was seriously hurt in his campaign to illustrate the dangers of unprotected biking. He suffered a mild concussion, lost two teeth and chipped several others.

Big Benπs courageous act is no surprise to those who followed his leadership last football season in guiding the Pittsburgh Steelers to the 2006 Super Bowl championship. Despite this accomplishment, he jeopardized his lucrative athletic future for the greater good of saving millions Americans from potential motorcycle injuries. By example, other bikers now realize that all of us who fancy traveling Americaπs streets, roads and highways bareheaded on a two-wheel vehicle, are vulnerable to serious injury or death.

The long-term consequences of Roethlisbergerπs injuries are not known; but memory loss from concussions is a frequent side effect and the symptoms have forced the early retirement of other professional stars. We hope that is the not the case here.

However, you can be certain that the Steelerπs management will take the necessary steps to ensure Roethlisbergerπs safety. The next time you watch Pittsburgh play, youπll see Big Ben on the sidelines talking on the phone to one of his coaches in the press box. "Remember, Ben, put your helmet back on before the next play."

Steve Coon

Ames, Iowa

Tucson, Arizona

scoon@iastate.edu

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