Stepping Forward And Honoring America

MCKENZIE, Tenn. – In a day and age some people choose not to pay respect to the American flag and national anthem, but two student-athletes from different schools chose to do just the opposite Thursday night in McKenzie, Tennessee.

It took place at the Bethel University volleyball match against Dalton State College in Bethel's Crisp Arena.

There was a malfunction with the playing of the national anthem but fans in attendance were treated to even a better version of the anthem than one just being played off a computer.

Bethel sophomore Jessyca Watson and Dalton Sate junior Ryan Burke simultaneously stepped up to press row and offered to sing the anthem. The two did just that to the delight of their teammates and those in attendance.

Bethel Sports Information Director Dave McCulley asked Watson about the reason she chose to sing the anthem. She replied, "I guess I volunteered because I feel it's important to remain grateful for the opportunities we have here, like sports and the schools which are so accessible in our country. I am also so grateful for all those who serve as officers and in our armed forces. The National Anthem is a great reminder of our freedoms and a great way to show our respect and thankfulness. Everyone has their freedom to do what they like but it's especially important for me to be an example to show there are still tons of people who respect our officers and armed forces past and present. I know there have been terrible decisions made by a few and I am sensitive to that but to those who do the right things I feel it is important to salute them."

Watson is from Gallatin, Tennessee and was homeschooled through Aaron Academy. Through a co-op opportunity she sang at United Christian Academy in Hartsville, Tennessee. DSC's Burke is from Athens, Georgia.

The Bethel University Sports Information Department thanks both Jessyca and Ryan for the help and salutes both for their stand.

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Players Mentioned

#10 Ryan Burke: Middle Blocker; 5' 11"; Junior

Players Mentioned

#10 Ryan Burke
: 5' 11"; Junior
: Middle Blocker

Players Mentioned

#10 Ryan Burke

Players Mentioned

#10 Ryan Burke