Alabama football head coach Kalen DeBoer has made headlines after announcing he will not take part in the NCAAโs Pride Night this season. His reason? He believes the game should stay focused on football, not politics.
โOn the field, it should be about football, not politics,โ DeBoer said in a statement this week.
Who Is Kalen DeBoer?
Kalen DeBoer took over as Alabamaโs head coach in 2023, following the retirement of the legendary Nick Saban. Before Alabama, he led the Washington Huskies to a national championship appearance. His calm leadership style and modern offensive system have made him a rising star in college football.
Why Heโs Boycotting Pride Night
The NCAAโs Pride Night is designed to support LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports. The event includes special pregame ceremonies and themed gear to celebrate diversity on and off the field.
DeBoer, however, says he wonโt participate. He believes game day should be about the sport itself, without outside causes or messages.
โI want football to be the center of attentionโnothing more, nothing less,โ he said.
Fans React โ Support and Criticism
DeBoerโs decision has received strong reactions from both sides:
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Supporters say he’s protecting the game’s focus:
โHis job is to coach, not to get political. Heโs right to keep it about football.โ -
Critics believe heโs missing the point:
โPride Night is about visibility and respect. Avoiding it sends the wrong message.โ
This isnโt DeBoerโs first time in the spotlight. Some fans have questioned his laid-back style, including his choice to dress casually on the sidelines.
Why It Matters
This situation highlights a growing debate in sports:
Should coaches and teams take part in social campaignsโor stay focused only on the game?
The NCAA created Pride Night to promote acceptance in college sports. But when a high-profile coach like DeBoer opts out, it raises questions that go far beyond Alabama.
What Happens Next?
So far, Alabamaโs athletic department has not released a response. With the 2025 season opener approaching in September, the pressure is building.
Many are now wondering: Will this affect DeBoerโs relationship with players, fans, or recruits?
Bottom Line
Kalen DeBoerโs decision to boycott Pride Night is bigger than football. It touches on a deeper national conversation about free speech, inclusion, and the role of politics in sports.
As the new season kicks off, this story will likely follow himโand the Crimson Tideโthrough every game.
