Why Sports Events Start with the National Anthem

It’s almost automatic now to hear “The Star-Spangled Banner” each time a sporting event is about to begin. Have you ever wondered why this anthem is played?

“The Star-Spangled Banner” is deeply more than just a song to many. It’s a national treasure that symbolizes the resilience and unity of the United States, recounting a significant battle from the War of 1812. Despite being a staple of sporting events, there remains diverse viewpoints on its role and necessity.

The roots of this tradition reach back to the poignant days of World War I, where the anthem served as a strong symbol of national pride and determination.

A Key Historical Moment

The custom of playing the national anthem at sports events started during a challenging period for the country. Though baseball enthusiasts occasionally heard it played by military bands in the late 1800s, it wasn’t until March 3, 1931, that “The Star-Spangled Banner” was officially named the national anthem by Congress.

A major event that cemented its place in sports history took place on September 5, 1918, during Game 1 of the World Series between the Boston Red Sox and Chicago Cubs.

This game was held during the strife of World War I, the same month the U.S. military embarked on the substantial Meuse-Argonne offensive. By that point, many American lives had already been lost on foreign battlefields.

The atmosphere was tense, and matters worsened with a bomb exploding in Chicago just the day before, resulting in tragic losses and casting a shadow over the event.

As heavy rain caused delays, only 19,000 spectators came together at Comiskey Park, far fewer than the regular 32,000 crowd. Despite the somber mood, everything transformed during the seventh-inning stretch when the U.S. Navy band began the national anthem.

Igniting National Pride

According to reports by the Chicago Tribune, Red Sox player Fred Thomas, then serving in the Navy, stood and saluted the flag. This simple act prompted others to follow suit, ending with the stadium erupting in applause, turning the atmosphere into one of immense patriotism.

The New York Times highlighted this moment as “the highest point of the day’s enthusiasm,” marking the beginning of the anthem’s prominence in sports events. In recognition of wounded veterans, the Red Sox offered complimentary tickets and honored them during the anthem in the crucial Game 6.

This wave of patriotism spread nationwide, prompting more ballparks to incorporate the anthem into their pre-game routines. By the time it was officially deemed the national anthem in 1931, the NFL had already made it a requirement for football games, which soon extended to most sports.

The evolution of sound systems during World War II played a significant part in making the anthem “heard everywhere,” as Marc Ferris elaborates in his publication Star-Spangled Banner: The Unlikely Story of America’s National Anthem. The anthem became an essential prelude to numerous public gatherings.

Debates over Tradition

The discussion concerning the anthem’s place in sports events has been ongoing for many years. As early as 1954, there were concerns about public conduct during its performance. This led Baltimore Orioles’ general manager Arthur Ehlers to temporarily cease playing it, although public disapproval forced a hasty reversal.

In the 1970s, radio host Guy Mainella provoked debate by suggesting the anthem was better suited for military events than sports. He argued it was just a game, not a significant military confrontation.

The conversation gained traction in recent times, especially after Colin Kaepernick’s notable protest against racial inequality. Sports writer Peter May challenged readers, asking whether the absence of the anthem would truly diminish patriotic sentiments during such games.

In 2020, Dallas Mavericks’ owner Mark Cuban controversially chose to cease playing the anthem at home games in solidarity with social justice movements, sparking significant uproar. Texas’s Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick described it as “a slap in the face to every American,” prompting the NBA to eventually reinstate the anthem.

Your Thoughts Matter

The anthem can symbolize honor for those who sacrificed for the nation, yet others believe it mirrors more about the American experience. Should this tradition continue, or is it time for a change?

Ultimately, “The Star-Spangled Banner” holds different meanings for each individual based on their experiences and perspectives. What do you believe is the anthem’s rightful place in sporting events?

We would love to hear your thoughts. Share your views and experiences with us!