US men’s soccer team and what sports should be

 Christian Vezilj - American Thinker   

The U.S. soccer team did exactly that. Regardless of how far they go in the tournament, Americans should be proud of these young men. They took their responsibility seriously. In a time when sports have too often been used to divide, the U.S. soccer team chose to unite. 

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"What once served as a shared national pastime — a place where families gathered, where rivals shook hands, where excellence was celebrated for its own sake — slowly became another battleground in the country’s cultural and political divide. From Colin Kaepernick kneeling during the national anthem to entire leagues adopting ideological messaging, sports drifted away from their purpose. Fans who simply wanted to watch great athletes perform at the highest level found themselves pulled into debates they never asked for. The flag, the anthem, and the shared rituals that once united stadiums became contested symbols. The joy of the game was overshadowed by politics.

"That is why what we witnessed from the U.S. soccer team during the World Cup felt so refreshing. After their victory, individual players gave thanks to God on the field, acknowledging the source of their talent and the blessings that allowed them to compete on the world stage. As a team, Mark McKenzie led the U.S. Men’s National Team in a post-game prayer during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. They gathered in a circle and offered a prayer of gratitude. No theatrics. No ideological signaling. No attempt to divide. Just humility, reverence, and appreciation.

"In that moment, they reminded the country of what sports can be at their best.

"These young men came from different backgrounds — different families, different hometowns, different levels of privilege. Some grew up with plenty, others with very little. Some were raised in strong faith traditions; others found their way later. Yet despite these differences, they understood one thing clearly: wearing the jersey of the United States of America is an honor. It is not a platform for personal politics. It is not a stage for ideological performance. It is a responsibility — one that demands gratitude, humility, and respect." . . More...

...not this; "Look at me, everybody!"