By Terry James
Illinois Wesleyan University football coach Norm Eash is standing by his players who chose to kneel during the national anthem at last Saturday’s football game.
Bloomington High School football coach Joe Walters had this prospective about the issue, which came to light a month ago when San Francisco 49ers’ quarterback Colin Kaepernick refused to stand for the national anthem to demonstrate what he believes is racial injustice in the world.
“For us, I think it is really important that we respect and show a lot of respect for the guys that have fought for the country and have died for our country,” said Walters.
“And me, being a veteran myself, I know that our boys understand that. We have a lot of guys going to the Marines next year, so I don’t think we have any issue with it.”
Illinois State coach Brock Spack said he doesn’t think political statements and college athletics go together.
He says the atmosphere at a college football game should be one of pageantry and fun.
Terry James can be reached at terry@wjbc.com.
