LSU athletics found themselves at the center of a debate regarding whether student-athletes should be required to be present for the national anthem. Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry called for a policy that mandates student-athletes to be on the field for the anthem after the LSU women’s basketball team faced criticism for missing “The Star-Spangled Banner” before a game against Iowa. He reiterated his stance in an interview on “America Reports.” LSU football coach Brian Kelly responded to Landry’s comments by stating that if the administration requires the team to be out there for the national anthem, they will comply and stand proudly for it, emphasizing the importance of following protocols and showing respect for the flag.
Kim Mulkey, LSU women’s basketball coach, explained that it was not intentional for the team to miss the anthem. However, Landry insisted that the issue goes beyond the actions of the players or coach Mulkey and highlights a larger problem within college sports. He stressed the significance of the national anthem in American sports and called for policies to be put in place that ensure respect for the anthem. Landry’s concerns stem from the belief that a lack of a policy requiring student-athletes to be present for the anthem is disrespectful to those who serve and protect the country. He emphasized the need for unity and civility, stating that college athletes should be united under one flag and show respect for the anthem.
Brian Kelly, LSU football coach, emphasized that while they will comply with any requirements to be present for the national anthem, the issue is not about being against what the governor is advocating. He reflected on past moments of showing patriotism during games, such as honoring Army in the stadium, and expressed hope for moving past the current controversy. Kelly acknowledged the importance of policies regarding the anthem and stated that he stands by the statements made by the athletic director, Scott Woodward. The focus for the LSU athletics program is on following established protocols and showing respect for national symbols like the anthem.
Governor Landry’s call for policies requiring student-athletes to be present for the national anthem stems from a belief that the anthem is an integral part of American sports and should be respected. He expressed disappointment at the LSU women’s basketball team missing the anthem and emphasized the need for civility and unity in showing respect for the flag. Landry’s comments have sparked a discussion about the role of the national anthem in college sports and the importance of policies to ensure that student-athletes understand the significance of honoring the anthem. The controversy surrounding LSU athletics and the national anthem highlights broader questions about patriotism, respect, and unity in sports.
LSU women’s basketball coach Kim Mulkey clarified that the team’s absence during the national anthem was unintentional, but Governor Landry emphasized that the issue goes beyond individual actions. He called on college boards to establish policies that respect the anthem and ensure that student-athletes understand the importance of showing respect for national symbols. The debate surrounding the LSU women’s basketball team’s missed anthem has raised awareness about the need for clear guidelines on honoring the anthem and reflecting on the values it represents. Moving forward, discussions about patriotism and unity in sports are likely to continue, with a focus on promoting respect and understanding among student-athletes in collegiate athletics.
