Tank McNamara by Bill Hinds

Why do people like sports?

There are many reasons, of course - basking in the aura of intense competition, witnessing feats of athleticism, experiencing a sense of camaraderie with other fans. Heck, even fulfilling one's "civic duty" to support the hometown team is enough to motivate some people to join in on the fun.

The emotions entwined with sports can last for days, weeks, months and certainly years. A crushing loss can dampen the workweek or remain a bitter taste for an entire offseason. An exhilarating victory can elicit a fond smile decades after the clock has run out on the game itself.

And we tie those emotions to the players, too - reverence and pride for the victors; frustration and disappointment for the defeated.

And then ... there are the JERKS.

We all know them - those individuals whose antics and actions, either within the arena of sport or outside it, just make us all angry. And there's nothing worse than a scoundrel who gets away with it.

Well, now is our chance to enshrine these miscreants in immortal infamy. It is time to crown the Tank McNamara "Sports Jerk of the Year" !

Tank McNamara by Bill Hinds

Nominations are now open!

"Sports Jerk of the Year" nominations are accepted only for individuals - not for a team, league, organization or corporation. Nominations are accepted via four methods through Thurs., February 4:

• GoComics Blog: Leave a comment with your nomination on this blog post.

• Twitter: Tweet to @GoComics using the hashtag #SportsJerk2015.

• GoComics Facebook: Visit the GoComics Facebook page and comment with your nomination, including the hashtag #SportsJerk2015. 

• Tank McNamara Facebook: Visit the official Tank McNamara Facebook page and comment with your nomination, including the hashtag #SportsJerk2015.

The "Sports Jerk of the Year Award" winner will be announced on Weds., February 17 via the GoComics blog, its social media outlets, the Tank McNamara Facebook page and the Tank McNamara comic strip.

Let's hear it! Who has your vote?