Sport and Religion: An Unholy Alliance.

This paper points out the affinity of two basic elements of human existence--religion and sport--and then attempts to explain why they should be separate. It addresses the nature of religion, religion in America, the nature of sport, sport as religion, and reasons for the incompatibility of sport and religion. Similarities between sport and religion are listed, and the writings of several authors whose athletic experiences have had religious overtones are cited. Reasons for the incompatibility of sport and religion are then presented, including: (1) the essence of religion is selflessness and the essence of sport is selfishness; (2) treating God as some kind of supercoach demeans both religion and sport; (3) many athletes are practicing magic rather than religion; (4) athletes on praying teams are pressured to conform to team behavior, thus violating their religious freedom; and (5) some religious organizations for athletes represent the religious right, which often fosters authoritarianism and intolerance. (Contains 48 references.) (JDD)