OutKick's Dan Dakich has expressed dismay over the suspension of Indy Star columnist Gregg Doyel from covering Indiana Fever games for the rest of the WNBA season, following inappropriate interactions with player Caitlin Clark. Dakich questioned the severity of the punishment, arguing that Doyel's actions warranted dismissal.
Amid the controversy surrounding Indy Star columnist Gregg Doyel's suspension from covering Indiana Fever games, OutKick's Dan Dakich has shared his strong disapproval of Doyel's actions and the punishment he received.
Doyel was removed from his assignment after a series of bizarre interactions with star player Caitlin Clark at a press conference. In one instance, Doyel formed a heart symbol with his hands towards Clark and asked, "I like that you're here," after she inquired about his gesture. During an interview with Fever head coach Christie Sides, Doyel referred to Clark as "that" and "it."
Dakich praised Clark's composure in handling the situation, but expressed concern over Doyel's ongoing employment. "He's so creepy, you can't have him around a women's basketball team, yet that's not enough to be fired," Dakich said. "What's enough to be fired? If that ain't enough to be fired, you tell me what is enough to be fired."
Dakich's primary issue with Doyel's behavior was not the specific actions themselves, but the underlying motivations. "Why would a male reporter feel compelled to speak that way to a female athlete?" Dakich asked. "Why is it okay for Caitlin Clark or any female athlete to be spoken to like that? Creepy, condescending voice, putting some type of relationship in it. ... And other reporters laughed along."
Dakich believes that Doyel's behavior was indicative of a larger issue within the sports media industry. "What makes Doyel and the others bring that into the room?" Dakich said. "That is the bigger issue. And it ain't going away."
Doyel's suspension has sparked widespread debate on social media and within the sports community, with many expressing support for Clark and criticizing Doyel's actions. Gannett, the parent company of the Indy Star, has confirmed Doyel's suspension but declined to comment further.
The incident has also raised questions about the consequences for inappropriate behavior towards female athletes in the sports media industry. Dakich's comments highlight the need for a thorough examination of these issues and a commitment to creating a more respectful and inclusive environment for all athletes and journalists.
As the NFL season approaches, all eyes will be on Doyel to see if his behavior has changed or if further action will be taken. The sports media landscape is evolving, and the standards for appropriate conduct are becoming increasingly clear. It remains to be seen whether Doyel and other sports journalists will rise to the occasion and create a more equitable and respectful environment for female athletes.
