I was startled and appalled at the graphic on the cover of today's sports page ("Bad Blood," May 9). Here I was thinking hockey is a sport, but the Post-Gazette cleared up that misconception for me -- it's all about the violence. I have never been a huge hockey fan, but like the rest of Pittsburgh I rally around our teams and was excited about the Penguins' run for the Stanley Cup. Not anymore. I am not interested in reading or watching anything that celebrates violence over sportsmanship.

I try to encourage my 2-year-old son to enjoy both reading and sports, but today's paper went right into the recycling bin. I don't want to encourage him to participate in any activity that glorifies violence the way today's sports page does.

MAUREEN MAHONEY HILL, Fox Chapel

With the current national political disputes, the economic forecasts and our lacking recent leadership, the great wonders and great strengths of our United States are sometimes diminished, so it was with joy and wonder that I read the Fun 'n' Games section of the May 4 Post-Gazette ("She ain't heavy").

The story about Mallory Hoffman, first baseman for Central Washington University's softball team, who helped an injured opposing player reach base, thereby losing the game and CWU's chances at postseason play, was inspiring to say the least. I hope all athletes and others read this article, for it speaks to what sportsmanship and fair play are all about. What a wonderful story now added among the many American stories that provide proof of our virtues.

MICHAEL JACOB, North Fayette

Regarding the "Fans not showing up to see the Pirates" article ("Pirates Drop to Last in Attendance," April 23, 2008), Frank Coonelly said it all for (P)irates fans, "It is a shame that more fans have not been able to enjoy Pirates baseball at PNC Park to date." If we were able to enjoy the baseball being played at beautiful PNC Park, maybe more fans would come out?

BOB ABOEY, (P)irate fan, Dormont

I did not attend one Pirates game in 2007. That was the first time I did not go since I was a very young kid. I probably will not go in 2008, either.

It blows my mind that any true baseball fan can pay to see the noncompetitive product the ownership puts on the field. The non-fans are apparently buying into the gimmicks. Keep supporting the bobbleheads, fireworks, $7 beers, $35 all-you-can-eat games and the Nuttings will laugh all the way to the bank.

When they make a $25 million profit, they will use it to pay down debt. They will not spend it to improve the caliber of play on the field. You non-baseball fans keep going to the games and continue to make the Pirates profitable, but don't expect to see a winning team as long as the Nuttings call the shots.

This is a very unfortunate situation, because I love the Pirates and would like to attend games with my grandson. The fact that one family can deprive so many of the happiness that a competitive team would bring just seems so wrong.

JOHN KRISTOF, Lower Burrell