At sporting events across the globe, from high school games to the Super Bowl, it has long been tradition to start every game off with an anthem. This has been observed since Francis Scott Key penned words to an already existing tune in 1814 which would later become The Star Spangled Banner. Over time it has also become part of more celebrations and patriotic occasions – military parades among them!

Conducting the national anthem can be no small task. Mezzo-soprano Teresa Hui has performed it at marathons and triathlons and notes that early starts can be tough even for experienced singers; even sopranos such as Teresa have to wake up so early and be warmed up before hitting the field. Other performers face other types of difficulties due to large stadium acoustics or competing themselves; for instance Tenor Dennis McNeil from Prudential Center who performs for New Jersey Devils games notes how distracting crowds can be; finding it hard to remember all of his lyrics at times!

All these factors make the anthem’s job as a symbol of patriotism more challenging than ever, according to voice teachers at the University of Connecticut. Additionally, Colin Kaepernick’s decision to kneel during the anthem during his NFL career has become a focal point of this debate and made its symbolism even more prominent than before.

Many Americans have taken offense at this protest, yet it is essential to keep in mind that the national anthem’s meaning has evolved since its original purpose was written to commemorate America’s victory in Baltimore during the War of 1812. Since 1814 when its first public performance took place at an outdoor public market event, its use as part of sporting events has grown ever stronger; for example professional baseball, basketball, and football games as well as high school and college athletic competitions often incorporate singing the national anthem as part of the experience.

Since World War II, professional sports leagues have increasingly made it part of their pregame ritual to play their respective national anthem before every game. Sound systems allowed teams and parks to utilize this tradition without needing a live band; as time passed, a tradition developed where only home team’s national anthem would be played prior to matches (unless multiple countries participated such as in 1946 NHL).

Sports events bring people together under a shared goal: winning. But the commotion surrounding the national anthem can obstruct this sense of camaraderie, so until it brings pride to all Americans and not just white ones, it should not be played at sporting events; instead it should be saved for more meaningful celebrations.