Tim Thomas: On Thin Ice?

Would you miss out on a team invitation to the White House?

Imagine accomplishing something and being invited to the White House to be acknowledged for it. Pretty awesome right? Apparently not awesome enough for Tim Thomas, goalie for the Boston Bruins who made  a statement this week by not accepting the invitation extended to his entire team in recognition for winning the 2011 Stanley Cup. Since his refusal to attend, many Bruins fans have voiced their opinions regarding the champion goalie and whether or not politics has a place in sports.

As a Bostonian, it's hard not to involve the two. With celebration banners hanging from our state house and parades of epic proportions through the streets where minutemen once trod when we bring home victory trophies, it seems like the two go hand in hand. Thomas, one of two Americans on the Bruins roster, could be defended with the argument that he was simply exercising his right to free speech. However, some fans believe that athletes should be role models and that perhaps Thomas should have done the gracious thing and accepted the President's invitation.

In his statement, Thomas said that he believes the Federal government has grown out of control, citing the infringement of rights, liberty and property among the reasons for his frustration. In fairness, Thomas made clear that he believe the fault lies with both parties and said that this was a difficult and individual decision.

As fans sound off on the internet and through other media, we're curious to hear what COSMOpolitique readers think. Should Thomas have taken his issues to the president or was his message heard loud and clear? Tell us in a comment below, on Facebook or on Twitter by following @COSMOpolitique

For more on Tim Thomas and what Bruins fans think of his political statement, pick up The Boston Globe, on newsstands today!