The Olympic Games have a rich tradition of showcasing the world’s finest athletes. And while American football is synonymous with sport in the United States, it has largely remained outside the Olympic spotlight. However, in an exciting development, American football is set to make its debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
This announcement has ignited enthusiasm among football fans and athletes, promising a unique blend of athleticism, strategy, and excitement that the Olympic stage has never seen before.
American Football’s Journey to the Olympics
American football’s road to the Olympics has been a long and winding one. The sport has historically been excluded from the Games due to concerns about its physical nature and complexity. However, in recent years, there has been a growing movement to include American football in the Olympic program, with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) finally heeding the call.
“I feel like football is a great addition to the Olympics.” said defensive back for Spring Valley Antwon Lock. “Although, I’m glad they added the sport, football should’ve been added to the Olympics many years ago.”
The Inclusion of American Football in the 2028 Olympics
The decision to include American football in the 2028 Olympics is a significant milestone for the sport. The IOC recognized the value of adding something that is deeply ingrained in American culture and has a growing global presence. Both men’s and women’s American football tournaments will be featured in the event, and this historic inclusion will provide athletes with an opportunity to represent their countries on the world stage.
The Impact on American Football
The Olympic platform will have a profound impact on American football. Not only will it provide a new avenue for elite athletes to compete and represent their nations, but it will also draw attention to the sport on an international scale.
Baseball in the Olympics
Then the next addition to the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles will be America’s pastime sport: Baseball. Baseball has been asked for by millions of fans around the world after it was dropped in the 2008 olympics for other sports.
“I feel like it’s been long overdue,” said Senior Drew Heitner. “I feel like they should’ve had it a couple of years ago.”
Baseball fans around the world don’t have to wait long to see the players represent their countries again after the WBC (World Baseball Classic) happened back in March. Some Fans around the league root for countries to show their passion towards their favorite players in the league.
“I am going to root for Venezuela,” said Heitner. “A lot of my favorite players are from there and hopefully I see them play for their country,”
A lot of fans are upset with the fact that during the process of making teams during the WBC MLB organizations would stop players from going because of the health risk it brings. This sparked up when closing pitcher for the New York Mets Edwin Diaz closed out the game for Puerto Rico and celebrated with the team, which resulted in him getting a a knee injury that caused him to be out of the 2023 season .
“Let the players play, it’s for their country and in my opinion it’s more important than playing for the World Series,” said Senior Alex Taylor.
Other fans believe that bringing back baseball to the Olympics can leave a positive impact on the sport and bring America’s past time back into action.
“I think it’s a great opportunity for players to show the world what they have,” said Senior Matthew Rogers.
