The NFL has been embroiled in controversy since Colin Kaepernick began to take a stand that aimed to raise awareness for and address social issues. This season, players have taken too protesting during the national anthem by kneeling or remaining in the locker room.
Players have been decried for their actions from some NFL fans, media members and President Donald Trump. Most have nonetheless remained steadfast in continuing to deliver their message. In September, Oakland Athletics rookie catcher Bruce Maxwell becoming the first MLB player to join the protest by taking a knee during the anthem.
Shortly after Maxwell’s stance, Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said he hoped his players would give strong thought to that potential act, and added it would be something that personally bothered him because his late father served in the military.
While speaking at “An Evening with Vin Scully” at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium, retired Dodgers broadcaster Vin Scully explained the protests are such that he will no longer watch the NFL, which drew a loud round of applause from the crowd.
Why I love Vin Scully! #IStand pic.twitter.com/0Fry1gMD50
— Larry Kruger (@Krug_Dog) November 5, 2017
While Scully has not been on the call for any NFL protests or those in baseball, his experience in dealing with social matters includes calling games when Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier with the Brooklyn Dodgers.
Scully has eloquently shared anecdotes of the horrible treatment and taunts Robinson received, and he’s lauded the legendary athlete for maintaining his composure while remaining focused on the larger picture.