Posted by:

Neal Coolong

| 11:33 AM ET  09.08 | One of the boldest public relations decisions in sports today was the LPGA's edict that golfers must learn English and be able to speak it appropriately, or face suspension.

The LPGA argues that due to its affiliation with sponsors based in English-speaking countries, the players on the tour must be able to communicate in the language of those sponsors, who are giving up the money that makes women's professional golf possible.

On the other side, civil rights activists are saying the rule Title violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex or national origin.

A sticky ethical decision on behalf of the LPGA, no doubt.

Kudos to TheBasketballGuru for tackling such a controversial topic, and presenting his opinion with quality writing, sensitivity to both sides and providing an intelligent solution to the dilemma.

Written in a very clear, structured manner, BBGuru states he doesn't agree with the LPGA's decision to make this rule. He recognizes two sides to the story, but waits until after he's objectively presented the LPGA's reasoning behind the decision before writing why he disagrees:

"I personally believe that they could have been a tad more subtle with their message, maybe a fine or missing out on one event or a sanction, but removing their tour card? I see handfuls of non-English speaking golfers on the PGA tour and it doesn't seem to be a problem to them."

He calls on readers to post their reactions to the story and to his column, and he ilicited more than a few intelligent responses representing both sides.

It's short-but-poginiant look at a big issue in today's sporting world. Whichever side of the fence the reader is on, BBGuru cannot be accused of irresponsible reporting or sensationalized writing.