Why do all sports games begin with the National Anthem?

Sports games often start with something familiar—the playing of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” But have you ever wondered why we do this? It’s more than just a routine; the national anthem represents the strength and spirit of the American people. Over time, it has become a regular part of the sports experience, but not everyone agrees that it should stay that way.

The tradition of playing the anthem at sports events began during World War I, a time when the country needed something to unite it. While the national anthem had been performed at some baseball games in the late 1800s, it wasn’t until the 1918 World Series that it became a powerful symbol.

The U.S. Navy band played the song during a tense moment in the game, and the crowd’s reaction was filled with pride. This single moment set off a trend, and soon, the anthem became a permanent fixture at major sports events across the country.

A Tradition Born from War

It was September 5, 1918, during Game 1 of the World Series between the Boston Red Sox and the Chicago Cubs. The U.S. was in the middle of World War I, and many American soldiers had already lost their lives. That day, the mood in the stadium was somber.

But when the U.S. Navy band began playing “The Star-Spangled Banner,” the crowd erupted with applause. For the fans, it wasn’t just a song—it was a way to honor the sacrifices made by their fellow Americans.

This moment forever linked sports with patriotism. The anthem quickly became a regular part of sporting events, and in 1931, it was officially named the national anthem. By the time World War II came around, the anthem was played at almost every major sporting event, and advancements in sound systems helped spread it even further.

Should We Keep the Tradition?

In recent years, some have questioned whether the anthem still belongs at sporting events. One famous debate erupted when NFL player Colin Kaepernick chose to kneel during the anthem to protest racial injustice. This sparked conversations about the anthem’s role in sports. Some people believe that the song should be a tribute to fallen soldiers and national pride, while others argue that it doesn’t fit in with the spirit of sports.

Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban made headlines in 2020 when he decided to stop playing the anthem at home games. His decision stirred controversy, but it also opened up a larger conversation. Should the anthem still be played before every game, or should it be reserved for special moments of national significance?

What Do You Think?

There are many opinions on this topic, and we’d love to hear yours! Do you think the national anthem should continue to be a part of sports culture, or is it time to leave this tradition behind? Share your thoughts in the comment section below!

By understanding its history and the different perspectives around it, we can decide whether to keep the anthem at sports events or let the tradition evolve with time.