Chicago Red Stars Soccer Player Defends Decision To Stand For Anthem

From OUTKICK.COM

Alexi Lalas tweeted and then deleted this when players from the National Women’s Soccer League kneeled before a recent match: “Now it takes courage to actually stand for the national anthem.” Lalas had himself a full social media day and then the world moved on. Now comes the story of Rachel Hill, a player for the Chicago Red Stars who had to release a statement on why she was the only player standing for the anthem before a match against Orlando.

That’s right, Rachel is the pioneer when it comes to issuing a statement on why she stood for the anthem. “When I stood for the national anthem before the Chicago Red Stars’ most recent game, this was a decision that did not come easily or without profound thought,” Hill wrote. “Before the game, I was completely torn on what to do. I spoke with friends, family and teammates — of all races, religions and backgrounds — with the hope of guidance. I chose to stand because of what the flag inherently means to my military family members and me, but ... (Read more)