Regarding the columnist John McGrath’s Aug. 15 commentary in The Herald (“Maybe Seahawk’s Bennett should quit football”), I suspect the writer’s supposition that Michael Bennett’s sitting down during the pregame national anthem is a detraction to his fellow Seahawks is doubtful at best.
I personally would never, not stand up for the anthem or the pledge. (Oops, sorry, two negatives in one sentence!) One of the best patriotic shows around here is when the UW Husky band rolls out their huge American flag prior to their home games. I can’t watch it without tearing up. It’s done so respectfully, it’s simply awesome!
However, Bennett’s and former San Francisco player Colin Kaepernick’s decision not to stand during the anthem is their own way of expressing their views which they are entitled to do. I do not believe for one minute that doing so will take away from their performance on the field or that of their teammates.
Also, to think that three and a half hours of a football game (per McGrath), should be the most important thing in player’s lives on Sundays is ridiculous. NFL players are not gods, they come from people like you and me, and are people like you and me. I am willing to bet family comes first to them too. If indeed that not standing for the anthem is the reason Kaepernick is not yet signed, then NFL owners ought to get over themselves. Oh, but then again, it’s all about big business and the money, isn’t it?
Now. if only I can get my Bennett jersey autographed! ‘Nuff said.
Kathryn Peterson
Mountlake Terrace
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