This Summer brings the return of the World Cup.  Something I’m excited for, but in the same way I get excited to watch China play Sweden in a grueling qualifying Curling match during the Winter Olympics. 

The whole world coming together for fun & competition always gives me the chills, but most soccer players’ embellishments are too ridiculous for words (see video).  These same kinds of things are seen in some of the sports I follow - Basketball (freaking everyone), Football (wide receivers, mainly), and even to an extent in Baseball (Jeter’s leans at the plate??). 

Hockey has it right.  This excerpt is taken from the NHL’s official rulebook:

64.1 Diving / Embellishment – Any player or goalkeeper who blatantly dives, embellishes a fall or a reaction, or who feigns an injury shall be penalized with a minor penalty under this rule.

64.3 Fines and Suspensions - Regardless if a minor penalty for diving / embellishment is called, Hockey Operations will review game videos and assess fines to players or goalkeepers who dive or embellish a fall or a reaction, or who feign injury…..The first such incident during the season will result in a warning letter being sent to the player or goalkeeper. The second such incident will result in a one thousand dollar ($1,000) fine. For a third such incident in the season, the player shall be suspended for one game, pending a telephone conversation with the Director of Hockey Operations. For subsequent violations in the same season, the player’s suspension shall double.

If soccer were to adopt something resembling this rule, I would likely change my disposition.  A bit.  More issues I find with the game are covered by this guy.  But don’t get me wrong, I’m still excited!