Team USA players aren't inclined to make political statements at World Cup

COLUMBUS, Ohio – On a day when President Obama said it was San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick’s constitutional right to not stand during the national anthem, John Tortorella talked about it being an honor to be America’s coach at the World Cup of Hockey.

“It is hockey, but I also think it is a huge platform for us to represent our country, especially in today’s world, with everything is going on,” Tortorella said Monday, the opening day of training camp for the U.S. team.

The patriotism vs. individual rights debate, ignited by Kaepernick’s gesture, is reflected in the opinions of the players who will be wearing USA jerseys when they compete at the World Cup starting Sept. 17 in Toronto.

“As athletes we have a great platform and to use it to influence social change is within our right,” said American forward David Backes of the Boston Bruins. “Whether you should do that during the anthem, which stands for our country and salutes those who have given their lives for our country, allowing athletes to play, is a matter of debate. I have my opinions on that.”

About Kaepernick, Backes said: “He is going to do his thing, but I salute those who have stood for our country, who have died and given limbs and lives for us. I will salute that flag every time it is raised.”

Calgary Flames President of Hockey Operations Brian Burke who is a senior advisor for Team USA said he respects athletes’ right to “express opinions, vote, attend political rallies and make political contributions.

“But I don’t believe the field of competition is a place to make political statements,” Burke said.