Buffalo, NY (WBEN) Canadian fans have been booing the US national anthem prior to games in response to tariffs imposed by the US. The NHL is considering scuttling the anthem prior to some upcoming games.
"I guess everybody's entitled to their opinion. Certainly everyone is entitled to feel the way they feel. It's unfortunate, though," says longtime anthem singer Doug Allen. "National pride is a wonderful thing, and I think that we need to encourage that and not discourage it." Allen says the only time he can recall hearing boos during his rendition was when he sang the word star when the Sabres played the Dallas Stars, but he notes that was for an entirely different reason.
While Allen says he hasn't watched it himself, he says the booing, especially over the tariff war, is unfortunate. "There's so much misinformation out there. I do believe which is causing this kind of animosity. And it's just not necessary.," believes Allen.
What Allen believes is necessary is the NHL keeping the anthems prior to all games. "I think these are wonderful reminders," says Allen. "I work in an elementary school right now, and every day, these kids stand up and say the Pledge to the flag. It's a part of our history. It's a part of our heritage. It's also a part of just maintaining patriotism, maintaining a love for our country and and so I think it's important," adds Allen, who concedes his bias, considering his time with the Sabres. He says he's a big proponent of not having knee jerk reactions to situations and says the NHL should give it some time and let things work themselves out. "I think as time plays on, I think people will begin to see the truth of the entire matter and and it will eventually work its way out," says Allen.
Allen recently performed the anthem the night Rob Ray was inducted into the Sabres Hall of Fame.
