There were those who criticized the NFL as the "No Fun League". Let's bring in the NCAA as a partner. I don't have an acronym to use but, in this case, it could be JPSA for "Just Plain Stupid Association".
The NCAA put out a memo today reminding schools about the legality of their uniforms. Not a big deal, you say. Maybe. But for Rutgers, it seems to mean that its F.A.M.I.L.Y. black jerseys will have to lose the "name" on the back.
NCAA Football Rules and Interpretations, Rule 1-4-5 and Appendix E
Sounds impressive, doesn't it? Well, it states:
"Other than the player’s number, the jersey may only contain:
• Player’s name.
• School name.
• NCAA logo.
• Sleeve stripes.
• Logo for school, conference, mascot, postseason-game, memorial, the military.
• American flag.
• State flag."
Well, that can't exclude something as harmless and bonding as F.A.M.I.L.Y., could it? Who are we dealing with here, people? The memo goes on:
By interpretation, only military service academies may substitute words such as Honor, Integrity, etc. for the player’s name on the back of the jersey. This interpretation applies only to the military service academies; civilian institutions may not substitute other words for the player’s name.
So that means, NO! to Northwestern:
And NO! to Maryland:
Just think. Of all the Maryland unis, that's the one they'll ban.
And NO! to Northern Illinois:
Guess this one would be out, too.
via wobm.com
Let's allow the service academies to do their thing. That's great. But not allowing schools to honor the military, or to recognize family and commitment to the team? The NCAA is really hurting.
'Murica!