Every time senior Giovanni Hansen tunes in to watch basketball, his eyes turn to watch his favorite athlete, Golden State Warriors player Stephen Curry. Like Hansen, many look up to influential individuals as role models, whose voices can impact the audience’s perspectives and attention.

Having a large fan base can give a role model a spotlight to inspire followers of all ages, even politically. Hansen highlighted how athlete involvement in the political world can change perspectives based on an athlete’s view.

“Steph Curry actually endorsed Kamala Harris. People like my cousin, who were able to vote during that time said seeing all the celebrities endorse Kamala Harris made her want to vote for her,” Hansen said.

Athletic role models can also influence a followers playing style. Volleyball player and freshman Devansh Chakraborty enjoys watching German volleyball player Tobias Krick and learning from how he plays.

“When I see him playing, it helps me become a better player. I watch him and then reflect on my plays based off of what he does,” Chakraborty said.

Athletes, however, have limited involvement in politics due to occupation in the entertainment industry instead of the political world. Social science teacher Karen Henry believes that an athlete’s voice is not what draws large scale attention but the way outside figures react and interact with their opinion.

“Colin Kaepernick took a knee, and it probably wouldn’t have been as big of a deal if the president hadn’t jumped in with criticism,” Henry said.

Being a star athlete who is viewed as a celebrity and athletic figure by the public can build a larger spotlight when their opinions are shared.

“If he (Stephen Curry) had some kind of comment to make about the war in Iran, for example, either support or critical of it, that would make news, and people would want to hear what he had to say,” Henry said. “But if it was some other athlete or coach, it’s like meh.”

Chakraborty considered role models of any shape and form as a source of inspiration that athletes can look toward to push themselves and become better individuals.

“As a varsity volleyball player, having someone to look up to just keeps me motivated. Seeing how hard he works and how he plays at a high level makes me want to push myself more,” Chakraborty said. “It also shows me what’s possible, which helps build confidence and keeps me focused on getting better.”