Post by DiamondThief on Jun 13, 2016 19:00:45 GMT -8
June 13, 2016 -- Following one of the most deadly shootings in United States history, in Orlando, the Arena Football League announced it will show support for the victims, their families, and the city of Orlando.
During the games this weekend (June 17-19), each player will wear a helmet patch with the letters ORL on it. Moments of silence will be observed before each game to honor and recognize the victims as well.
Early Sunday morning (June 12), a gunman opened fire at a gay/lesbian nightclub outside of downtown Orlando, murdering 49 people and wounding 53 more.
On June 9, following a performance in the city, Christina Grimmie was shot and killed by a man who traveled from across the state to commit the crime. Grimmie, who appeared on The Voice in 2014, was reportedly shot up to four times.
Orlando is home of the Predators, an AFL team which began play in the league in 1991. The Predators will wear their black jerseys for their road game this weekend at the Jacksonville Sharks. The game is at 4 p.m. (PT) and will be televised on CBSSN.
"Together we mourn the loss of lives and injuries suffered in this horrific tragedy in the early hours of June 12," AFL Commissioner Scott C. Butera said in an official AFL press release on the league's site. "We commend the heroic actions and courage of Orlando's first responders, emergency teams, and government officials working diligently to overcome the horrible aftermath of this tragic event. Our deepest sympathies go out to the victims, their families and friends and the entire Orlando community."
All eight of the league's teams are on the slate for this weekend, including the Cleveland Gladiators and Portland Steel, who kick off at 7 p.m. (PT) in Portland.
- ANM
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