NHL’s new social media policy for players

The National Hockey League enforced a new policy approved by the National Hockey League Players’ Association, restricting the use of social media applications by its players. Taking effect for the 2011-2012 season, the policy includes a social media blackout period that starts two hours before the game, lasting until are post-game interviews are over.
The policy was created in order to make sure certain information isn’t leaked out to the public, as well as false information that could go against the NHL’s league rules. It was also made to prevent people from betting on the game using information that is not approved. Players are asked to be cautious of what they post online. Failure to follow the policy would result as a fine to the player. “The policy is sensible. It lets our players and clubs participate substantially in the opportunity of social networking while identifying and mitigating some of the risks. To date, our players and clubs have been exemplary in connecting with fans on social networks, and fans should not expect to see any material difference as a result of this policy," said Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly on a CbsSports.com article.
The National Football League and the National Basketball Association have been using this policy for about two years. Major League Baseball has been using a social media policy for a shorter time. The NHL was one of the last leagues to implement a social media policy because they felt that their players don’t engage into social media, as much as the players from the other league.
One of the most active tweeters in the NHL, Paul Bissonnette, a left winger for the Phoenix Coyotes, does not seem to have a problem with it. “People asking about NHL’s new policy on Twitter. I think it’s good. I don’t even play much and I don’t tweet on game days. Plenty of off days,” he said to TheStar.com. New York Islander Michal Grabner also tweeted, “Heard there will be a social media policy in the NHL ... good thing most our my tweets are about food, napping or video games #dontwanttobefined.”
Though a policy has been administered, there should not be any changes in the way players communicate with the use of social media. Players are restricted from revealing certain information; however the public will continue hearing from them.

The new 'Ironhead'

Cameron Heyward / Sage 2011 Football Card

Ohio State's Defensive Lineman, Cameron Heyward was the first pick of the Pittsburgh Steelers (31st overall pick) in the 2011 NFL draft. He was surrounded by professional football players since he was a kid, and now he has become one of them.

Heyward is the son of Craig "Ironhead" Heyward, former running back for the New Orleans Saints. Although he followed in his fathers footsteps and became a professional football player, he paved his own road to do so. But he is not defined by his father's accomplishments.

His achievements in high school and college are what makes him qualified to play for the Steelers. They are also some of the reasons why he was the team's first pick. While attending Peachtree Ridge High School, Heyward helped his team obtain the Georgia Class 5A State Championships. That same year, he was the 2006 Georgia Class 5A Defensive Player of the Year. He was not only hardworking on the field, but also in school. He left his high school with a 3.2 GPA. The next year, he began school at Ohio State. As a freshman, he helped the Buckeyes reach the BCS National Championships. As a junior at Ohio State, Heyward led his team to the Rose Bowl, where they won the 26 to 17 against Oregon. Heyward started in 46 out of 52 games throughout his college career. He recorded 168 tackles, 15 sacks, and six quarterback pressures. He even recovered two fumbles, one of which ended in a touchdown.

Heyward always wanted to become a professional football player just like his father; however, he wanted to do it the noble way. According to a CBSSports interview, he wants to do things his own way and doesn't want special attention. "I don't want to live in his shadow...," the younger Heyward said. "I appreciate everything he's done. But I want to do everything by my own. I'm not asking anybody to give me a second look or anything just because my dad was 'Ironhead'." He did not want extra chances and he did not need them. All of his hard work and dedication to the sport over the years allowed him to become the Pittsburgh Steelers' first draft pick.

Both the Steelers and Heyward believe that he would be a great addition to the team. In a conference call, Heyward was asked, "What kind of player is the Steelers getting?" He said he is, "A team-first kind of player, very accountable and a guy that is constantly going to work hard and contribute as much as he can for his team." Heyward is definitely physical and athletic enough to make an impact on the team. He may not start this season, but he will greatly improve the defensive line. His future is promising and he has so much time to develop. While Heyward does not play the same position as his father, he is looking to create his own legacy of the Heyward name. He has what it takes to become the new Ironhead Heyward