Watch CBS News

Freshman Quarterback Dismissed From Team After Kneeling During Anthem

READING, Pa. (CBS) -- A football player at Division III Albright College in Reading has been dismissed from the team after taking a knee during the National Anthem on Saturday.

Before the game against Del Val, the Albright Lions decided as a team to both take a knee during the coin toss and to stand during the Star Spangled Banner as a sign of unity.

Goodell: 'We Believe That Everyone Should Stand For The National Anthem'

One player, 19-year-old Gyree Durante, went down on one knee during the National Anthem. According to school officials, the freshman quarterback didn't tell anyone his plan to kneel.

In a statement, the school says Durante was dismissed for his decision to not support team unity.

A 24-player leadership council came up with the pregame routine as a way to find common ground and mutual respect on a team with so many different opinions.

Trump Sends Fundraising Email Touting Pence's Anthem Walk-Out

School officials say Durante remains enrolled as a business major. He did not respond to requests for comment.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.