He also believes the Hawkeyes will take those stances together.
“Nobody is judging each other or taking roll or any of that kind of stuff,’’ Ferentz said. “They’re being a good team, acting like a team should.’’
Meetings participated in by Hawkeye players in recent months included spirited conversation on both sides of the issue.
Ferentz said he presented a letter to group written by a military veteran who felt strongly that nobody should kneel as the anthem was played.
He also brought a Navy SEAL in to speak to the Hawkeyes, a 20-year veteran who offered his perspective.
“In his mind, it’s all about Americans being their authentic selves and doing what they feel is best and stay true to their beliefs,’’ Ferentz said. “In his words, that’s what people like him fought for, so our country can enjoy the liberties and freedoms that are very unique to our country.’’
Tracy said he welcomes the opportunity to express his feelings on an issue which stepped to the forefront following the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis on May 25.
At that time, and before several former Hawkeyes raised questions of racial inequities within the Iowa program, some current players suggested that they wanted to join other athletes in taking a knee during the anthem as a silent protest of the way Black Americans have been treated by law enforcement officers.
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