Why Coca-Cola's Sponsorship Of The Olympics Is An Issue | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Sports

Why Coca-Cola's Sponsorship Of The Olympics Is An Issue

Drink soda, become an Olympian?

396
Why Coca-Cola's Sponsorship Of The Olympics Is An Issue
Indiana Public Media

If you watched any event from the 2016 Olympics the past few weeks, during commercial breaks you may have noticed more than a few commercials from the Olympics biggest sponsor — Coca-Cola. These commercials show athletes describing the feeling of winning a gold medal, but after every clip or two of the athletes, there would be a clip of people drinking Coca-Cola, wearing Olympic apparel. These commercials also show athletes thanking their families/teammates/mentors, and celebrating the Olympics by drinking Coca-Cola. The slogan that Coca-Cola has been using for the sponsorship, according to the Olympics' website is "Refreshing athletes since 1928".

I am the only one who sees an issue with this whole thing?

Childhood obesity is at an all-time high, according to the 2015 Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System, nearly 30 percent of high school students are overweight or obese. Much of this statistic can be attributed to unhealthy eating habits (which frequently includes soda). What are the children watching the Olympics (and commercials) supposed to think? Drink soda, become the next Michael Phelps or Simone Biles? Let's be realistic, do either of those athletes (or any Olympic athlete) drink soda as a part of their daily routine? No. You don't become an Olympian by drinking soda. But what are kids supposed to think when they see Coca-Cola commercials next to Olympic athletes?

I understand that big money makes the world go round, and helps the Olympics to go smoothly without having to worry about money. But the Olympics are the pinnacle of athleticism, and sugary drinks don't necessary promote healthy lifestyles. While yes, Coca-Cola does produce drinks other than soda, is that what we immediately associate the brand with? I think you know the answer to that.

By placing sugary drinks next to the best athletes in the world, it's giving a very mixed message to Olympic fans and consumers. Although it may make sense (from a financial perspective) to the International Olympic Committee to have Coca-Cola as a sponsor for the Olympics, does Coca-Cola really support the message of health, fitness, and success that the Olympics represents? I guess that's for the individual to decide for themselves.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

20157
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

8516
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

6167
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

5335
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments