The National Women’s Soccer League is considering putting an end to the playing of the national anthem during pre-match events. If the decision is made the NWSL would become the first sports league in the United States to do so.
The motivation behind the reconsideration comes from trying to protect black players in the league; after events that took place last summer in continuation of the Black Lives Matter Movement protesting for George Floyd, Brenna Taylor, and many more.
As the 2020 season closed, the NWSL has since been flexible with their players. The NWSL revisited the policy around the anthem; allowing an opportunity for those who did not wish to participate in the ceremony. Players can make their own choices whether that be to stay in the locker room or to kneel at midfield. Both come both without punishment.
In 2021, as the league kicked off with the pre-season Challenge Cup tournament, there was another decision. The NWSL longer broadcasted “The Star-Spangled Banner” on any network – Paramount, CBS Sports, or Twitch.
— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) April 20, 2021
Many members of the USWNT still stand at nationally televised games. The most recognizable is soccer star Alex Morgan. Alongside Morgan are her teammates Kelly O’Hara, Emily Sonnet, Lindsey Horan, and Carli Lloyd to name a few that follow suit.
Defender for the national team, Crystal Dunn, told The Chicago Tribune the team is moving forward in a new phase so kneeling isn’t a priority because they are doing the behind-the-scenes work to combat systemic racism.
There’s still disarray on the pitch among players and teams. Some continue to protest, but many stand in attention to the flag. Therefore the question remains, who is the national anthem played for and why?
NWSL commissioner, Lisa Baird, is in communication with the league’s Player Association about alternatives to pre-match events. The league has not made a decision yet and will continue to deliberate what The Equalizer wrote.
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Definitely comes down to “who is the national anthem played for and why?” It needs to be talked about and brought up more. Great article!
Thank you so much!