Hidden Message in Sports

Growing up, I have always been a pretty big sports fan. It wasn't until the other day in class that I learned about how big politics plays a part in it. Before every major sporting event there is always a small ceremony usually where the American flag is shown to the crowd as the national anthem is sang by thousands of fans and players. I feel like without this act of patriotism, we would view players as a less important part of our society. But with this act of patriotism, it sort of gives the players some eligibility or makes them more legitimate to the fans. I thought it was interesting that Michael Jordan was wearing a Reebok sweatsuit, but instead of saying that he wont wear it for the sake of his brand, instead he just covered up the logo with an American flag. This made him seem patriotic rather than coming off as a jerk who doesn't want the Reebok logo to be seen on him. So even though sports plays a huge part in our society, there will always be that underlying message.