Posted on 09/25/2017 2:15:26 PM PDT by Morgana
FULL TITLE: Ben Roethlisberger says he REGRETS Pittsburgh Steelers boycotting the anthem and reveals the decision left him 'unable to sleep
The man who won two Super Bowls for the city of Pittsburgh says that he now regrets the fact that he and his Steelers teammates refused to stand on the field for the national anthem during Sunday's game.
'I was unable to sleep last night and want to share my thoughts and feelings on our team’s decision to remain in the tunnel for the National Anthem yesterday,' said Ben Roethlisberger in a statement.
'The idea was to be unified as a team when so much attention is paid to things dividing our country, but I wish we approached it differently. We did not want to appear divided on the sideline with some standing and some kneeling or sitting.'
He closed out by saying: 'I appreciate the unique diversity in my team and throughout the league and completely support the call for social change and the pursuit of true equality.
'Moving forward, I hope standing for the Anthem shows solidarity as a nation, that we stand united in respect for the people on the front lines protecting our freedom and keeping us safe. God bless those men and women.'
He also spoke on Monday during practice in Pittsburgh and confirmed that the Steelers will not skip the anthem again this season.
(Excerpt) Read more at dailymail.co.uk ...
The Army Ranger player who DID come out to stand for the anthem
the pursuit of true equality.“
Right, thanks.
An oath no less sacred than "Until death do us part"
Alejandro Villanuevo took an oath he could not break ... and didn't.
The first paragraph of the 2014 Rules Of Coduct for The NFL reads:
"It is a privilege to be part of the National Football League. Everyone who is part of the league must refrain from “conduct detrimental to the integrity of and public confidence in” the NFL. This includes owners, coaches, players, other team employees, game officials, and employees of the league office, NFL Films, NFL Network, or any other NFL business. Conduct by anyone in the league that is illegal, violent, dangerous, or irresponsible puts innocent victims at risk, damages the reputation of others in the game, and undercuts public respect and support for the NFL. We must endeavor at all times to be people of high character; we must show respect for others inside and outside our workplace; and we must strive to conduct ourselves in ways that favorably reflect on ourselves, our teams, the communities we represent, and the NFL."
It's not an oath, but though I've never read that before today, I've always assumed there was a code of some sort that guided players to be MORE than just an average citizen.
I think it's safe to say that the NFL has been deeply affected by the actions of a few.
#78 is Anthony Villanueva, the single Steeler who came out and stood for the national anthem.
Did he get early copy of ratings result?
Got it, thanks
If Ben were a man of his convictions, he could have joined his teammate on the field. He didn’t.
And now he says he’s embarrassed he did so?
On Monday, Villanueva spoke to reporters, saying: “I made coach Tomlin look bad, and that is my fault and my fault only. I made my teammates look bad, and that is my fault...only.”
“Every single time I see that picture of me standing by myself, I feel embarrassed,” Villanueva continued.
My whole family can trace military service and defense of our flag and this nation to Bunker Hill. My Father served during Korea. My sister retired an Air Force Major. My father-in-law fought in Vietnam. My Brother-in-law served honorably in the ‘80s and never saw a day of combat and he too was buried under that flag. Likewise I also served in the ‘80s, giving up time that others used to go to college and giving up parts of my body through injury. After 6 years in the Infantry, I was put out with knee and neck injuries that bother me even today. I have also put in my will the very specific request that I be buried under that flag.
Some have given all, all that served gave some.
Those that didn’t sacrifice ANYTHING now judge that same flag as being unworthy of a moment of stillness. To them I say begone and depart from us. We desire neither your counsel nor your countenance.
He is backwards shaming them. Good for him.
The only man on the Steelers.
I will forever refer to them as the Pittsburgh Kneelers
If you guys want to really protest, why don’t you not play until your grievances are met. Put your money where your mouth is.
Thanks for the support, Ben RAPISTberger.
I saw someone mention yesterday that Villanueva was likely obligated by his military rank to do what he did, or be demoted or lose his pension. Anyone know if that is true? Not that it matters. Every American should be so obligated, pension or not.
Fork tongue imbecile.
We all knew there would be apologists. Nope. Sorry. Too little, too late.
Does Ben need some jerseys sold?
The ONLY Steeler who came out of the locker room and stood for the anthem on Sunday.
You nailed it
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