Something Much Greater than Football

By Chuck Harris

Staff Writer

Dayton, TN- Who knew that a country’s own people would one day disrespect their flag in hope to gain “respect” for themselves? Everybody can recall the notorious Colin Kaepernick incident, in which he kneeled during the playing of his country’s national anthem. In doing so, he started a trend that consisted of numerous professional athletes showing a form of protest that pushes for “racial equality.”

On November 12, 1892, the first professional football game was played. Since that date, America has experienced numerous crucial wars that have helped to shape this beautiful country. Amongst the many who have served in the U.S. military are former and current NFL players and coaches. These patriotic men have left their high paying professions to ensure our country’s safety and freedom. Furthermore, these men are considered role models to not only children, but people of all ages. How do these men feel about the Colin Kaepernick incident? Alejandro Villanueva, former Army ranger and current Left Tackle for the Pittsburgh Steelers, said that he disagrees with how Kaepernick is expressing his political views. He then went on to say that soldiers, overseas in Afghanistan, are being “unfairly paid,” and for Kaepernick to kneel during the national anthem sends an incorrect message.

Many people in the football world have been highly offended by the NFL athletes who have chosen to protest during the national anthem. According to Mike Ozanian (http://www.forbes.com/sites/mikeozanian/), the NFL lost one-third or 32% of it’s TV viewers after the Kapernick player revolts. Millions of dollars have been lost and the NFL can do very little about it. Jerry Jones, the owner of the Dallas Cowboys, showed great honor and high regards towards his team and staff for standing during the national anthem. He stated during his radio show, “I applaud our players, our team,” He then continued to say, “And I’m for it being used in every way we can to support the great, great contributors in our society. And that’s people that have supported America, the flag, and there’s no reason to not go all out there. And for anybody to use parts of that visibility to do otherwise is really disappointing.” Jones’ viewpoint is important for the public to see in that it shows his respect for The United States of America.

In the end, it is important that we as Americans come together and represent our country in positive ways. Coming from a family who thinks highly of Americans performing their duty, I find Kaepernick’s proposal to be cowardice. We are not entitled to anything, therefore, we must be grateful for the many blessings that God has instituted in our lives. We pray that God gives our country peace and helps us to resolve these highly debated political issues.