Clemson University ensures that military veterans receive the recognition they deserve. The University of South Carolina baseball team has introduced a sincere tradition to honor those who served.
“We understand that our players can play baseball in a free country. That's not possible without the military and women who defend and defend that freedom,” coach Eric Bakic said. He spoke on Tuesday on Fox & Friends First.
During the game, the speaker system invites attending veterans and is recognized standing up. Shortly afterwards, Clemson players moved through the crowd, shaking hands and personally served each veteran with Lee Greenwood's patriotic anthem, “God bless the Usa.” Thank you very much.
Director Bakic says that simple acts often lead to emotional moments.
“I think there will be moments in tears for some of them, especially those who have not always had a warm welcome,” Bakic said. “But to know in our program and our games, they will be perceived as they should.”
Clemson has a long history of patriotism at sporting events. Coach Bakich noted that over the past 20 years, the team has emphasized proper respect during the national anthem and instilled gratitude in the players.
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“We've always practiced how to stand for the national anthem,” he said. “This is just a way to thank our veterans and those who protect our freedom and protect our veterans, even at a deeper level of gratitude.”
“As much as playing sports, it's a great way to teach those life lessons and create more about God and the nation.”
Personal connections with the military played a role in shaping the team's tribute.
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“I am the son of a veteran in Vietnam and a grandson of a veteran from World War II, so the flag personally means something terrible for me,” he said.
The team's response to homage was overwhelmingly positive, Bakich said. He also believes that gestures not only honor veterans, but also strengthen players.
“All credits go to the players,” he said.
“They are people who compete and we have a great group that is proven by their willingness to join the crowd during the game. That may be something that many players don't want to do. And they Do it with a lot of enthusiasm.
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Megan Rapinoe #15 was woven during the national anthem before the match between the US and the Netherlands at the Georgia Dome held in Atlanta, Georgia on September 18, 2016. (Photo: Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
This tribute contrasts with the ongoing national debate about patriotism at sporting events. In recent years, well-known athletes such as former US soccer star Megan Rapinoe and former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick have protested during the national anthem, sparking debate over the sport's location.
However, at Clemson, the team's focus is on honouring those who served.
“We'll show you two minutes to show that we can show you that we have appreciation and respect that there's no better way to do it at a sporting event,” Bakich said.
