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There are times when the NFL feels so irrelevant. None more so when Ukraine is at war with Russia and fighting for its very existence. The NFL family is united to pay tribute to all those who serve and recognize that football is not limited to the United States onaloneFor those who make the ultimate sacrifice, especially in view of the war in Ukraine, we reserve our highest honor.
Appearing via a video feed, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked the people of America for their unrelenting support of his homeland this year. He also highlighted the people who play American Football in Ukraine. He spoke in emotional terms about their love for the American game and how they have had to give up their dreams to instead go fight on the battlefield.
Fans were undoubtedly moved and took to Twitter to respond. Some were positive, whereas others questioned why it needed to be made political. Here are some of the responses.
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Ron Rivera wins Salute to Service Award, highlights Ukrainian plight
Ron Rivera has been the coach of the year before. But the measure of a person lies well beyond what they do on the field. He was honored this year with the Salute to Service Award. He was on hand to highlight the cost of the war in Ukraine and the bravery of the people fighting in the war against Russia.
He also highlighted the significance of having this year's Super Bowl in Arizona. It will be held inside the stadium where Pat Tillman's statue stands outside.
Pat Tillman was a player for the Arizona Cardinals but left his football career to enter into a career in military service following the 9/11 attacks. He served in Iraq and Afghanistan before his death in the war, capturing national attention.
His legacy remains even today and it is carried on by those who are fighting today in Europe. Much like he did all those years ago, players who dreamed of playing American Football in Ukraine now have to take up arms instead. We hope that their legacy remains much as it has remained for those who have answered the highest call over their sporting love.
