Whatever the UCONN Women's Basketball family decides will be in keeping with the wonderful nature of this family that I and many others have come to admire so.
1
As a long time Lady Husky fan, I'm surprised Coach and team are commenting on a possibility that is a couple months away. Usually Coach keeps his team focused on the next game.
I doubt the President cares one way or the other, other than as to some minor PR, in meeting with teams like this. He might just cut them all off and move on, and he will not be the loser when that occurs.
2
Ms. Bird is wrong. These are not kids, they are adults and they should be making their own decisions based on their own values and the input they receive from trusted advisers around them because that is what adults do.
As far as Geno goes, I assume he and his family followed our immigration rules and are here legally. To lump his family in with illegal, "undocumented" immigrants really isn't fair to him or his parents.
As far as Geno goes, I assume he and his family followed our immigration rules and are here legally. To lump his family in with illegal, "undocumented" immigrants really isn't fair to him or his parents.
I've been a UConn fan for a long time.
But it is beyond presumptuous to assume that this team is going to win a national championship after graduating the top three draft picks of the WNBA a year ago.
Revisit the question the first Tuesday in April.
Right now, Maryland, Notre Dame, Baylor, Florida State, Texas, South Carolina all have revenge on their minds.
The last team to beat UConn, Stanford, in a very strong conference, is not on the schedule, nor is any other Pac 12 team.
This is not a done deal.
As Keith Hernandez would say to a fellow SNY team, "don't shoot the clown."
But it is beyond presumptuous to assume that this team is going to win a national championship after graduating the top three draft picks of the WNBA a year ago.
Revisit the question the first Tuesday in April.
Right now, Maryland, Notre Dame, Baylor, Florida State, Texas, South Carolina all have revenge on their minds.
The last team to beat UConn, Stanford, in a very strong conference, is not on the schedule, nor is any other Pac 12 team.
This is not a done deal.
As Keith Hernandez would say to a fellow SNY team, "don't shoot the clown."
1
Longman put the hex on.
As soon as this assumption of another title ran, Kia Nurse sat out with a walking boot on, Katie Lou Samuelson had a second straight game of abysmal shooting, and UConn won by three in N'Awlins against a Tulane side they scalded by 44 not long ago.
This...is...not...a...done...deal.
As soon as this assumption of another title ran, Kia Nurse sat out with a walking boot on, Katie Lou Samuelson had a second straight game of abysmal shooting, and UConn won by three in N'Awlins against a Tulane side they scalded by 44 not long ago.
This...is...not...a...done...deal.
1
I strongly recommend the ladies do not visit the White House if invited. If for no other reason than Trump will try to take credit for their win.
1
A visit to the White House would be a tacit acknowledgement
that he is of sound mind and judgement.
that he is of sound mind and judgement.
2
It's curious to me that you ran a front page article on two hypothetical possibilities- one more plausible than the other- 1) - very likely- that UCONN women will take the title and 2) the other- not so likely given his behavior and statements regarding strong assertive women- that the winning women's basketball team, whoever they are will even be invited by Trump to the White House. That might be the next story.
1
Mr. Auriemma, please let the team members exercise their individual rights to participate in this bit of theatre. If some of the women want to attend, that is their prerogative. If others choose to 'opt-out', they are making their own individual choices. This way, UCONN is not making a statement by assuming a partisan position for the entire group.
Certainly some of these women are considering post-college careers in professional sports, Olympics, and other venues, and they do not want to impair their options. I am confident that the near future will accept that Mr. Trump is a failure as a man, and certainly as a President. It will be of greater career benefit to have chosen to distance oneself from this fiasco, than to be in history's record as a supplicant to his narcissism.
My parents were both alumni of UCONN. My mom was a staunch JFK progressive. I know that if she was presented with this same decision, a team of horses could not drag her to a photo op of benefit to this man!
Certainly some of these women are considering post-college careers in professional sports, Olympics, and other venues, and they do not want to impair their options. I am confident that the near future will accept that Mr. Trump is a failure as a man, and certainly as a President. It will be of greater career benefit to have chosen to distance oneself from this fiasco, than to be in history's record as a supplicant to his narcissism.
My parents were both alumni of UCONN. My mom was a staunch JFK progressive. I know that if she was presented with this same decision, a team of horses could not drag her to a photo op of benefit to this man!
2
I've had a similar question about the Kennedy Center honorees, given the overwhelming opposition to President Trump in the arts community, plus his desire to slash the budgets of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and the National Endowments for the Arts and Humanities. I know that this is a huge fundraiser for the Kennedy Center, and the telecast of the program is a feast. I worry that it will be diminished for the next four years.
1
UCONN, wait until we have a stable president again before going to the White House. We've all read the disgusting things that this guy said about grabbing women--too awful to repeat. Stay away from him, please.
6
Why should these women go to the White House "out of respect of the office of the presidency" when the current occupant of that role does not respect the office?
8
Worse, the current occupant doesn't respect women!
Trump lives in a bubble, protected from actual face-to-face criticism, able to watch the news all day and hide behind tweets. I'm wondering when, if ever, there will be a moment like the one when Eartha Kitt, invited to the White House, challenged President Johnson about Vietnam. Some people would say that was rude, but the concept of rudeness has taken on new meaning with this president.
3
Quite apart from whatever decision the Huskies make, should they win another championship, it is refreshing to read their thoughtful, articulate comments. These are impressive young women not only because of their tremendous athletic prowess, but also because of their intelligence, clear sense of values, and commitment to team. They are the model of what college athletics should be, but seldom is. I feel confident that whatever they do, it will be the right decision.
5
Someone posted:
That is pretty presumptuous. I didn't see anything in the article saying that they had been extended an invitation. Odds are they will not receive one. Unlike his predecessor, Tump is into the seriousness of running the country. The Patriots are one thing, but don't expect his to meet with every run of the mill group no matter how many games they win. With their arrogant, mouthy attitude let them stay home!
The team is hardly run of the mill. They're champs! But the poster is right Obama was President photo op. Like Trump said of career politicians from both parties - all talk no action.
That is pretty presumptuous. I didn't see anything in the article saying that they had been extended an invitation. Odds are they will not receive one. Unlike his predecessor, Tump is into the seriousness of running the country. The Patriots are one thing, but don't expect his to meet with every run of the mill group no matter how many games they win. With their arrogant, mouthy attitude let them stay home!
The team is hardly run of the mill. They're champs! But the poster is right Obama was President photo op. Like Trump said of career politicians from both parties - all talk no action.
So you think trump is against photo-ops?
1
I see phoboden thinks a scholarship is " free ride" and somehow now requires a student to give up their rights of free speech as an American to receive one?
Obviously phoboden has no respect for personal freedom or any clue what it takes to get through college these days.
Trump, a con man, is obsessed with destroying any informed check on his continued lying and goal to undermine anything of intellectual substance in this country. He doesn't deserve nor is he entitled to have these students line up for a cheap, insincere PR stunt, genuflecting in front of the most unqualified, anti-eduction president of my lifetime.
Perhaps Trump can have some of the fine students from Trump University stand in their place?
Oh sorry, they were all ripped off by Trump himself, and probably are too broke to afford the trip.
Obviously phoboden has no respect for personal freedom or any clue what it takes to get through college these days.
Trump, a con man, is obsessed with destroying any informed check on his continued lying and goal to undermine anything of intellectual substance in this country. He doesn't deserve nor is he entitled to have these students line up for a cheap, insincere PR stunt, genuflecting in front of the most unqualified, anti-eduction president of my lifetime.
Perhaps Trump can have some of the fine students from Trump University stand in their place?
Oh sorry, they were all ripped off by Trump himself, and probably are too broke to afford the trip.
2
As a graduate of Penn State University and former student athlete who played football, the long hours of practice, training, film study, travel and personal sacrifice these young women devote to their sport entitles each of them to make their own decision.
No popular sentiment, coach, or university official should force any of these student athletes to be in the same room with a man who openly bragged about groping women's private parts and has been accused of sexual assault.
Attending that ceremony would be participating in the normalization of this man, period. To me, their right to not attend falls under the rights guaranteed under the First Amendment. If they're forced to attend maybe those who don't want to go could use the old union tactic of a "sickout" and say they are to sick to go?
No popular sentiment, coach, or university official should force any of these student athletes to be in the same room with a man who openly bragged about groping women's private parts and has been accused of sexual assault.
Attending that ceremony would be participating in the normalization of this man, period. To me, their right to not attend falls under the rights guaranteed under the First Amendment. If they're forced to attend maybe those who don't want to go could use the old union tactic of a "sickout" and say they are to sick to go?
2
For the commenters here stating that the ladies of the UCONN basketball team should attend a White House reception as a show of respect for the office of POTUS, I state that the incumbent should first show respect for the office that he holds.
6
I assume each member of the winning team will have a choice and each should choose carefully. This isn't about some institution; team, presidency, whatever. it's about whether one chooses to associate with Mr. Trump or not. Our choices as individuals determine our self respect.
3
Whether it's the Cubs, the Pat's, or the Huskies, why should a White House visit be news, much less front page news?
I've never understood the connection between the World Series, for example, and the country's top politician, regardless of which team has won or who occupies the Oval Office.
Many might regard it as a quaint tradition, but don't we have bigger fish to fry?
I've never understood the connection between the World Series, for example, and the country's top politician, regardless of which team has won or who occupies the Oval Office.
Many might regard it as a quaint tradition, but don't we have bigger fish to fry?
2
Stop the nonsense. Basketball has nothing to do with politics. Why should some progressive administrator cheat these athletes from the opportunity to experience a once in a lifetime event. It will be a memory they will share forever.
I asked this question while eating Thanksgiving dinner with my family in CT last November. No one really answered that question but they were all sure that winning the championship was very possible. They all agreed that this team is beatable. I would guess that if they win, they won't be going. The 'locker room' talk isn't what goes on in their locker room.
3
It's far too early to raise this issue; despite the amazing strength of the team (in this, what was to be a "rebuilding" year) the championship remains a distant goal. That said, as a UCONN faculty member and fan, I trust the collective judgment of this amazing group of young women.
2
YES, you're educated women. Stand up and speak your peace by the rejection of any invite to the White House to meet with an apprentice president (small p on purpose) that has such real disrespect for women. Do something else that honors your accomplishments.
4
Girls? Kids? If you're old enough to be sent as part of a ground troop in Syria (on Trump's horizon),you're old enough to decide if you want to meet with this ignorant, ill-informed misogynist.
UConn women: If you win, celebrate your victory. Go to Washington. But spent your time meaningfully - at the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the US Holocaust Memorial Museum, etc. Don't normalize this man or his presidency with a trip to the White House.
Sad that the champions will be placed in this position.
UConn women: If you win, celebrate your victory. Go to Washington. But spent your time meaningfully - at the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the US Holocaust Memorial Museum, etc. Don't normalize this man or his presidency with a trip to the White House.
Sad that the champions will be placed in this position.
4
If my daughter had an opportunity like this and didn't take it because of her personnel beliefs, I would be a thousand times more proud of her than if she had only won the championship.
It's a lot more impressive to be a hero for young women all over the world than winning a trophy.
It's a lot more impressive to be a hero for young women all over the world than winning a trophy.
4
These kids are not Olympic athletes who competed for the opportunity to represent the nation. There is no understandable or cogent connection between what they might accomplish inside or outside of the classroom and the office of the president. It is wrong for anyone in or out of the athletic program at the educational institution to apply any pressure on them to demonstrate their patriotism in this way.
The same applies to employees and the audience at professional sporting entertainment events. Do Broadway actors and ticket holders have to listen to a version of God Bless America before each performance of Hamilton? Do traders at Goldman Sachs and JPMorgan Chase have to stand for the singing of the National Anthem before they hit the derivatives market?
The same applies to employees and the audience at professional sporting entertainment events. Do Broadway actors and ticket holders have to listen to a version of God Bless America before each performance of Hamilton? Do traders at Goldman Sachs and JPMorgan Chase have to stand for the singing of the National Anthem before they hit the derivatives market?
Jeez, can you at least let them play it out?
2
My advice: Don't go. The things this narcissistic buffoon craves are attention and recognition and photo ops...deny him. Every step to delegitimize this fraud "so-called" president must and should be taken.
2
This is just another lame, juvenile effort to disrepect opposing views.
1
Most sentient people oppose trump's views.
1
I am a huge fan of the UCONN women's basketball team. I think they play the game better than any team in the world. They could beat most men's teams. But don't sully your remarkable cohesion, team work and accomplishments by going near that White House with that man in it. I won't watch you again if you do. Just won't. Everyone needs to send him a message in the best way they can and the best way the UCONN women can is to stay away.
2
People need to embrace Virtues in life to be true to themselves and others. We are all living together as a concept in our existence here, now. Our President is not able to live these basic Virtues, so my hope is the Uconn woman will make the right choice when the time comes if the can live by their virtues and attend a function (if indeed they are invited) that most likely they will regret. This man has shown his inner soul, and it's not good. Good luck with your choice.
1
Dependent upon his vengeful, mean-spirited attitudes, Donald Trump may not invite the team that wins to the Whitehouse. Remember his behavior at the National Prayer Breakfast; he's no respecter of tradition. If anyone, associated with any team has offended him, don't expect any kindness or hospitality from Donald Trump.
2
Should they really want to make a powerful statement, they should consider a photo op at the Statue of Liberty. The area could be adorned with banners of the faces of all the American women who distinguished themselves with high-caliber historical achievements.
After a few rousing verses of "My Country Tis Of Thee," introduce the guest speaker, a person who knows a thing or two about diligence and perseverance -
Hillary Clinton.
After a few rousing verses of "My Country Tis Of Thee," introduce the guest speaker, a person who knows a thing or two about diligence and perseverance -
Hillary Clinton.
1
Please tell me how spending time with a hateful misogynist who bragged about grabbing women's genitals is supposed to be an honor for these talented and gifted athletes?
2
Yes they should boycott it, assuming a majority want to.
Having said this, I think it was right for high Democratic officials to attend Trump's inag. to show a continuous peaceful transfer of power.
However, after that, all bets are off. Protest, boycott, write, post, blog to limit the damage of the demagogue Trump.
Also, if he does something right, even by accident, support him.
Do not follow the lead of the head in the sand, bunker mentality of the Republican congress during Obama's reign.
Having said this, I think it was right for high Democratic officials to attend Trump's inag. to show a continuous peaceful transfer of power.
However, after that, all bets are off. Protest, boycott, write, post, blog to limit the damage of the demagogue Trump.
Also, if he does something right, even by accident, support him.
Do not follow the lead of the head in the sand, bunker mentality of the Republican congress during Obama's reign.
3
Just seeing the images of President Obama with the teams, where everyone seemed happy and smiling, brightened my day. We didn't now how good we had it just to be experiencing normal.
1
Respect the office even as you deplore the man. Go, be respectful but not joyous. Go, be solemn but not smiling. There are many ways to show your distaste with the man and his policies without disrespecting the Office of the President and what that office means to our Democracy. Resist and PERSIST!
"Resist and PERSIST"
I think not going is the ultimate "RESIST".
I think not going is the ultimate "RESIST".
1
There's respect for the presidency, and then there's respect for the president. They are not the same thing. Tweeter-in-chief Trump has shown that he does not respect the presidency and what it stands for in this nation and in the world. Rather than bringing us together he has widened divisions in this country.
The UConn women's team stands for excellence, teamwork and inclusion, none of which has been demonstrated by our president. I hope that they can show respect for the presidency, but not the man in it, by choosing not to go.
Of course they do have to win it all first.
The UConn women's team stands for excellence, teamwork and inclusion, none of which has been demonstrated by our president. I hope that they can show respect for the presidency, but not the man in it, by choosing not to go.
Of course they do have to win it all first.
4
It's up to them as a team, they are looking at a president who does not represent women, or even the spirit of America.
Don't be divided by this President, you are all to good.
Don't be divided by this President, you are all to good.
1
I so miss President Obama.
I so fear the coming year, as Trump finds a way to devastate pubic everything from public housing to public tv.
I went to Uconn in the '60's and was a terrible student. I hope there wasn't a student there that felt as lost and confused as I. I then left and was "encouraged" to join the American military and go to Vietnam in the infantry in 1968. I survived and marched in many demonstrations at Uconn.
So I urge Uconn students to fight back and not go to any event that supports this soft core white power fascist Trump government. Just say no, and no, and no, and no, and no...
Hugh Massengill, Eugene Oregon
I so fear the coming year, as Trump finds a way to devastate pubic everything from public housing to public tv.
I went to Uconn in the '60's and was a terrible student. I hope there wasn't a student there that felt as lost and confused as I. I then left and was "encouraged" to join the American military and go to Vietnam in the infantry in 1968. I survived and marched in many demonstrations at Uconn.
So I urge Uconn students to fight back and not go to any event that supports this soft core white power fascist Trump government. Just say no, and no, and no, and no, and no...
Hugh Massengill, Eugene Oregon
4
The UCONN community is not for them going. They will be representing themselves solely, which is what they need to consider: Do they represent themselves and Geno? Or do they represent our school?
If the latter, they should not go.
If the latter, they should not go.
1
Yes, U Conn should skip a meeting with The Con Don. Those who support this unbelievably outstanding WOMEN'S basketball team should hold a national rally, similar to the Women's March to show OUR support for their ability and success.
These are the kind of women we need to step up and take one-half the power in the world and they must NOT bow to the predator-in-chief. He, and men/women who think like him, is a scourge to women around the world.
These are the kind of women we need to step up and take one-half the power in the world and they must NOT bow to the predator-in-chief. He, and men/women who think like him, is a scourge to women around the world.
5
UCONN is the epitome of success, they outrank tradition. This amazing program could set the champion's bar by giving back to people and places that could benefit from their appearance, yet that will not get the requisite press to play along. Presidential visits are a fluff opponent for the media to shine.
Sort of sums it up: “The fact that in all the 11 championships I’ve never been asked this question says something about where we are” as a country, Mr. Auriemma said. “Forget the answer. The fact that I’ve never been asked means there’s something going on that isn’t normal.”
1
Given that any President generally has more important issues to address than making small talk and having a photo op with various athletic teams, perhaps
Trump should stop this phony foolishness. He has already said he won't be filling out a bracket. He should take the "pressure" off of these snowflakes and their unappreciative leader and not invite them.
Trump should stop this phony foolishness. He has already said he won't be filling out a bracket. He should take the "pressure" off of these snowflakes and their unappreciative leader and not invite them.
2
There are lessons here for these young athletes. As Elie Wiesel, said, "So-called neutrality always serves the oppressor--never the oppressed." An iconic women's team that stands for Title IX progress like no other, well, they have a responsibility. This is not a "whatever you want to do" moment. Take the stand that further demonstrates your leadership and affirmation as women against blatant misogyny, racism, and the multitude of bigoted positions openly embraced by this so-called president.
6
Ladies, do not go to see a man who views women only in terms of breast size.
He is not worthy of participation in your accomplishment.
He is not worthy of participation in your accomplishment.
7
A fireball article assuming that they'd be invited - DJT shows no interest in this type of photo opp - note that he turned down ESPN for filling out a b-ball tournament bracket. It's a non-issue.
1
There is no way I would meet with him. He has absolutely nothing to say that I want to hear. I certainly wouldn't want to be in his presence. It is my hope that young women, as well as young men, on championship sports teams reject this "opportunity". I know I would be uncomfortable, to say the least, if he was anywhere near my kids, especially if that child was a daughter.
3
That is pretty presumptuous. I didn't see anything in the article saying that they had been extended an invitation. Odds are they will not receive one. Unlike his predecessor, Tump is into the seriousness of running the country. The Patriots are one thing, but don't expect his to meet with every run of the mill group no matter how many games they win. With their arrogant, mouthy attitude let them stay home!
2
Do not go! The people are protesting in the streets! Academia is still free for expression.....do not go to express outrage about this man who is trying to act like a President.
5
I agree with all but your last few words. This man is making no attempt whatsoever to act like a president.
1
Sports should be a welcome relief from politics, a place where we can put aside our differences and focus on the something positive together. If this refuge is removed. where will that place be?
3
"Sports should be a welcome relief from politics,"....Trump is a vulgar, bigoted narcissist with a short attention span. None of those things has anything to do with politics.
5
If a school is receiving government funds, if those students are receiving scholarships to those schools... which they are on both accounts... they should go to the White House. It's pay back time for your free ride.
3
Excuse me, but as a coach of young women on a varsity High School level, the young women of UCON have WORKED their way through school. It started even before high school with a focus on their grades and their athletic skills. There is no "free ride" for them, any more than there is for athlete-scholars in ANY arena.
1
Pressure team executives, should they receive an invitation from the White House, not to accept it. But if they decide to accept the invitation, then it becomes an organized team activity in which the players do have to participate. That isn't to say they have to enjoy it; I've been in plenty of places I didn't want to be. Just go, be formal, and make it clear with your body language that you're there for professional reasons, not to endorse your host.
Boycott the USA!
3
Very presumptuous of them to be worrying about post championship celebrations before the tournament even begins.
One can only hope for an upset in the tournament to relieve the team of this difficult moral decision.
One can only hope for an upset in the tournament to relieve the team of this difficult moral decision.
4
My daughter went to the Women's March in DC with some of her friends, all wearing tee-shirts that said, "Connecticut Women Can't Be Defeated."
Of course it's possible that the UConn women can lose crucial contests and they might not win. Maybe they could borrow the shirts if they decide to go and meet this president.
Of course it's possible that the UConn women can lose crucial contests and they might not win. Maybe they could borrow the shirts if they decide to go and meet this president.
2
Don't go.
6
Don't go. The more people ignore them, the more it drives him and Jared nuts. We'll line the Hutch or I-95 and cheer you all on!
10
Why should a diverse team of successful women meet with an avowed racist and misogynist? The might also get groped, because "when you're a celebrity they let you do it.'
16
Giving up a shot to pass to a teammate is being a team player. Coercing a woman to do something she doesn't want to , isn't fostering teamwork. It's teaching a young woman to forget her convictions and fall in line.
7
Ray, I agree 100%!
3
Yes it should!
There is more political savvy and wisdom provided in all the comments here from the team's members than there was, is or will be from Trump, his cronies, and his administration over the next 46 months!
6
first, ask about his reach
4
Trump is too thin-skinned to endure being snubbed so publicly. I predict he will discontinue the tradition of inviting champion teams to the White House under some ruse (read: lie) about being too busy "rebuilding the country".
He'll be too busy entertaining Scott Baio and that girl who won that singing competition.
He'll be too busy entertaining Scott Baio and that girl who won that singing competition.
4
Respect yourselves, University of Connecticut women's basketball team. Do not give this fool of a President the honor of your presence at the White House.
8
Listen to Gabby Williams. She has the most mature attitude. Although I loathe the man as President and consider him to be totally incompetent, the respectful thing to do would be to attend to honor the team's accomplishments, which have absolutely nothing to do with politics.
1
The team's accomplishments can be honored elsewhere with more respect.
2
Geezie... this is exactly why Trump was elected.... Sports more important than learning. throughout the entire country. Meantime people gripe, don't do and Trump and his ilk hire H-2 workers because no Americans will do the unadvertised?? (are they?) jobs. Maybe U Conn should drop sports and the costs of tuition.
Maybe the White House should entertain the brainy kids who are valedictorians at their schools?
Maybe the White House should entertain the brainy kids who are valedictorians at their schools?
Having the chance to visit the White House and meet the President should be a pride-inspiring and exciting event, not something that prompts moral discussion and cortisol-spikes to the brain. In the words of 45: Sad.
1
Just say no. Tell the White House you have to 'do your hair' or something.
3
I could barely get past the title of this article. Show some respect! We live in the greatest country on earth, this is a news article? Be lucky and grateful that we can even go meet the POTUS - first world problems writing an article like this. If the basketball team doesn't want to meet the President, stay home and stop complaining.
1
Does Trump deserve respect after making every effort to destroy agency after agency that was created to keep the people of this country safe by appointing people who yearn to dismantle them?
1
Regardless of whether it is to the WH or DisneyWorld - a "student-athlete" needs to remember the "student" part of "student-athlete" and get back to class.
2
Trump should dispense with these meetings entirely. I'm sure he considers them a waste of time.
1
To UConn players: I recommend reading this recent Washington Post article: http://tinyurl.com/gsvzvde. While we wait to find out the specific plans of this administration's new Ed Secretary DeVos, it is useful to learn what those close to her recommend for public education, including public universities.
3
SO who care which individual player don't wish to go to the White House, I am sure the majority of the player will want to meet the President. Is this what stories I am paying to read? Let you writers loose already - puff pieces that the local penny saver put out is not what reader will pay for. Real news.
1
Call Hillary and ask if you can spend the day at Chappaqua. Learn about female leadership.
9
And how to get cohorts to feed you debate questions in advance.
2
They could also learn about the disappointments that can occur when one counts their chickens before they hatch.
3
Interesting how the Hate Hillary stuff keeps coming, proven or not.
2
For those who wonder why "basketball is suddenly a political issue" this is a man who is profoundly misogynistic and overtly racist. It is no honor for the team to have him to USE them as a photo op.
9
Keep in mind his previous boasts about meeting new women. This would be the first time you would have to counsel female athletes to wear a cup.
8
A bit of hubris? Finals on April 2nd! Come back to this story on April 3rd.
Don't go to the White House. Don't Normalize Donald Trump - the man who said: "Yeah that's her with the gold. I better use some Tic Tacs just in case I start kissing her. You know I'm automatically attracted to beautiful... I just start kissing them. It's like a magnet. Just kiss. I don't even wait. And when you're a star they let you do it. You can do anything."
7
Are you kidding? I'm at a complete loss for words that you would consider putting these women in the same room with that LOSER.
5
skip it - go visit a childrens hospital or old folks home or...you know, set an example for the president
8
I have an idea for you -- All go to meet the president -- and all wear head scarves in solidarity with Muslim women.
Imagine how that photograph will go around the world. How will Trump explain that he is surrounded by young, beautiful women -- not in bathing suits or inevening gowns like his past beauty pageant contestants -- but in hijabs.
The players get to tell everyone forever how they had an audience with the President of the United States, and he gets a photo that will forever make him squirm.
Imagine how that photograph will go around the world. How will Trump explain that he is surrounded by young, beautiful women -- not in bathing suits or inevening gowns like his past beauty pageant contestants -- but in hijabs.
The players get to tell everyone forever how they had an audience with the President of the United States, and he gets a photo that will forever make him squirm.
8
All championship teams face a similar dilemma because they do not belong to the demographic that supported Trump. But they all have achieved at the highest level of their sport and are entitled to the honor of being hosted at the White House. Because of the substantial reservations of many, a standard statement that we honor the office of President, are flattered by the White House invitation, and choose to accept without endorsing this President or anyone else would be a sensible compromise. Individuals who do not endorse that statement are, of course, free to do as they please.
“If we decided to go and do something there,” Ms. [Batouly] Camara said, “that could be a platform for us.”
Now there's an idea! Maybe the so-called president would not enjoy a visit by a group of educated, politically aware, multi-ethnic, multi-religious, supremely confident young women seeking to make a statement; be it UConn or any other team that wins the championship.
He couldn't dismiss them as "a bunch of losers."
Now there's an idea! Maybe the so-called president would not enjoy a visit by a group of educated, politically aware, multi-ethnic, multi-religious, supremely confident young women seeking to make a statement; be it UConn or any other team that wins the championship.
He couldn't dismiss them as "a bunch of losers."
5
Of course as Geno Auriemma knows, it's becoming increasingly possible that the University of Texas may be invited there instead...
1
Good luck, pal. UConn will role over Texas (should Texas be lucky enough to play the Huskies) like Sherman went through Georgia.
1
My hunch is if the Uconn Women chose not to go, Trump would simply tweet that they are "overrated," just like Meryl Streep. ROFL.
35
Stay focused and frosty Lady Huskies. Put this topic out of your minds and take it one game at a time. Win the championship. Continue to school the nation on dedication, relentless preparation, inclusion and the true meaning of selfless teamwork. Then go school the President.
14
I agree with some of the other writers. The UConn Huskies Women's team needs to focus on each game as it comes. Don't start thinking too far down the road. Whatever they do, these UConn Women's basketball teams are special. It will be an exciting season, whatever happens. Don't worry about the White House. GO HUSKIES! GO UCONN!
2
You should read about what he did to Maxine Brown:
https://mobile.nytimes.com/2016/08/28/us/politics/donald-trump-housing-r...
It would be an insult to her and yourself if you go. That goes for every college, professional, amateur, little league, fantasy, debate, Iditirod, cheerleading (seriously, watch out) and Olympics team.
https://mobile.nytimes.com/2016/08/28/us/politics/donald-trump-housing-r...
It would be an insult to her and yourself if you go. That goes for every college, professional, amateur, little league, fantasy, debate, Iditirod, cheerleading (seriously, watch out) and Olympics team.
2
Lets have the NCAA Tournament first, but if they win, they should not go...
Now normally a college or pro team going to the White House is a fun, non-political event....But with this current president, NOTHING is normal....He probably would not even make the event about the winning team, but turn it into another woe is me, bad media, fake news, pity party...
Now normally a college or pro team going to the White House is a fun, non-political event....But with this current president, NOTHING is normal....He probably would not even make the event about the winning team, but turn it into another woe is me, bad media, fake news, pity party...
2
I picked April 1 in our Impeachment Day 1 pool (day papers are first filed) - and I fully expect Trump, Pence, and the Gang of Liars and Thieves they clutch to their bosoms to be on planes headed to Moscow to evade jail time, or the death penalty for TREASON. U Conn should plan a great celebration at HOME, and wait for the next election to meet a legitimate president of the US. We will get one, the next time around, because now we know to look out for Russian hackers.
1
You go and behave better than your host.
No, Gabby. Don't go.
1
By all means go. But present him with a NASTY WOMAN tee shirt.
3
UCONN women.........I refer you to another article in this paper on the website that reads that the White House wants to cut federal support of the Public Broadcast System...............you know, like the CPTV stations that televise your games. Are you really sure you want to meet the man behind the destruction of your following?
2
Please don't go.
3
Yes.
Any other questions?
Any other questions?
1
The discussion and comments of the players are so much more thoughtful and civil than anything we hear from the current president.
5
Please do skip it... I know it won't mean anything to him but it will mean something to us.
With certain people the concept of being the bigger person & rising above doesn't work...In his head he will believe it means you are "on his team" .
With certain people the concept of being the bigger person & rising above doesn't work...In his head he will believe it means you are "on his team" .
4
I got it: forget the White House ceremony. Throw a party for themselves… heck invite Obama… No, I got it, crash his house and throw the party there – w/ Dave Chapelle MC 'n the gig, and send an invite to orange head - though he probably won't show up because there are two too many Muslims around.
Make sure Bill Maher gets invited.
Make sure Bill Maher gets invited.
1
We remember the days, just a few short months ago, when a championship sports team was delighted to accept an invitation to met our president.
Now the snobbish (and chic) reaction is to snub he president. The solution as to whether to accept or decline is simple. The burden of getting the champions into the white house is the president's.
If the president acted poorly and scared pricipled people away, then it is up to the president to extend himself enough to draw them back. The burden of attending the White House is never with the visitors -The Colonel
Now the snobbish (and chic) reaction is to snub he president. The solution as to whether to accept or decline is simple. The burden of getting the champions into the white house is the president's.
If the president acted poorly and scared pricipled people away, then it is up to the president to extend himself enough to draw them back. The burden of attending the White House is never with the visitors -The Colonel
DT is not a legitimate president in any case. He must not be normalized. At the same time, this American "tradition" of our chief executive meeting athletes also reflects badly on our country's sense of priorities.
2
You will be used....please don't go..instead send a message. Remind the nation of Trumps history with women.
71
Or create a Stand-Alone Public Relations event either before or after, or an ad where each player presents a personal message that doesn't directly attack the President, but sets a record that is independent of any "messaging" that President Trump will attempt to do. OR call SNL and see if you can get into a skit - What our illustrious President sometimes fails to realize that this is not a binary situation. We can honor the office, not hm, then do what we need to do to protect our democracy from a showman/autocrat.
1
Mr. Auriemma, There is a greater good in America than any President. It is Democracy. The people are America and your girls on the team are what Americans are all about. The vigor of youth and the spirit to win and a caring for others that is most evident in young people. The President represents a real threat to our caring and love of our democracy. He is a real danger to this nation and for the team to appear at the White House with him would only show a false face for a moment of grandeur and photo ops that would only benefit Trump and camouflage the real man. You must set an example in this case. You must not attend the White House and expose these sweet young innocent women to the vulgar presence of a lecherous sexist.
I have at times watched your games at UCONN on the CPTV channels and talked to some of your fans. I know the UCONN woman's team is a really big thing there and I love the home team spirit they display and the following of the team of unprecedented winners.
Don't let the President use you all to make himself appealing. This is about the team, the women, the innocent youth that cares. Don't let Trump bathe himself in their glory or forever be seen as a bought team.
Not many outside your state are aware of the women's remarkable place in history. Let them stand alone to be honored for their accomplishments. Let them be honored, not used and leered at.
I have at times watched your games at UCONN on the CPTV channels and talked to some of your fans. I know the UCONN woman's team is a really big thing there and I love the home team spirit they display and the following of the team of unprecedented winners.
Don't let the President use you all to make himself appealing. This is about the team, the women, the innocent youth that cares. Don't let Trump bathe himself in their glory or forever be seen as a bought team.
Not many outside your state are aware of the women's remarkable place in history. Let them stand alone to be honored for their accomplishments. Let them be honored, not used and leered at.
49
I hope UConn wins all its remaining games and the National Championship. I am a UConn fan. I couldn't care less if they go or don't go to the White House.
1
How racist? Perhaps President Trump should look into curtailing Federal grants going to UCONNN since the students are obviously being taught how to be disrespectful.
Free speech is protected, free money in terms of Athletic scholarships paid with Federal assistance are not. We'll see how many recruits go to UCONN after federal funds dry up.
Free speech is protected, free money in terms of Athletic scholarships paid with Federal assistance are not. We'll see how many recruits go to UCONN after federal funds dry up.
2
Great idea! Lets's hurt the students that have nothing to do with this. I for one would not go if I had the chance. This "president" does not represent my ideas of what an American should be. He is an abomination and unfit to lead.
1
Um, Athletic scholarships are NOT paid with Federal assistance. And UConn is one of the few women's college teams in any sport that could pay its way. If they moved every home game from Gampel Pavillion to the XL center in Hartford, they could sell out 15,000 seats for every game.
Their games are ALL televised. Those not on ESPN are carried on SNY. They sell shirts. They could self fund and have money left to subsidize the school.
Their games are ALL televised. Those not on ESPN are carried on SNY. They sell shirts. They could self fund and have money left to subsidize the school.
2
Please please don't go!
2
Coach Auriemma has it exactly backward when he says "“I’m not crossing the Rubicon,” Mr. Auriemma said. “That’s Caesar. Once your army crosses that river, you are an enemy of the state.” It was precisely because his Senatorial enemies had declared him *hostis*--an enemy of the state--that Caesar, with overwhelming popular support, was forced to move on Rome.
Take the White House tour some time when Trump isn't there. Then visit the Lincoln Memorial and read the inscriptions - stand at the Japanese American Memorial while looking at the Capitol - visit the Museum of African American History and Culture - read the inscriptions at the MLK Memorial - take in as much as you can.
Then decide for yourself if Trump is worthy of meeting you.
Then decide for yourself if Trump is worthy of meeting you.
4
Why would any woman in her right mind want to meet Trump ? Well, maybe they could give him a piece of their minds ...
1
Have Kia Nurse play him a game of h-o-r-s-e. Record the game.
1
The POTUS should be a symbol of national unity and everyone should feel welcome in the White House. 45 is as divisive and polarizing a president as we have ever had. If UCONN players don't feel welcome, they shouldn't go.
2
These young women are all "winners." Why would they grace a misogynist bigot with their time?
5
Everyone should boycott all things Trump. Don't buy the clothes and don't give him a stage to promote himself. Uconn, you are too good to stand with Trump.
6
Just my opinion, but I think the more people who snub Trump, the better. If you show up, you honor him more with your presence than he honors you with his.
95
He'll imagine the groups to be huuuuge any way
"Snubbing" the POTUS is an insult to the Office and to America. It is time to put aside the emotional rhetoric of the election campaign and come together as a nation.
Donald Trump is going to be our President for at least the next four years. Anyone not living in the election bubble should recognize that by now, I suggest that the best way to get Mr. Trump to do at least some of the things progressives would like to see is to be more positive toward him. I realize how difficult that is for some, perhaps most of you. However, if Ms. Dowd is right about his narcissistic tendencies, a positive approach is more likely to be effective at moving him in the right direction than a negative one. And there is little doubt that the barrage of negativity that is tossed at our President every day will do little more than harden his stance on his policies. Wouldn't it be better to work on things like helping people in the rust belt and elsewhere get better paying jobs? How about working through Ivanka on family issues which Mr. Trump seems flexible on? How about congratulating the President on his understanding of the 'Dreamers' issue that he expressed at his recent press conference and make dealing with these completely innocent undocumented immigrants the cornerstone of working toward a sane and sustainable immigration policy? I am sure there are other areas where a positive and effective way of dealing with the President would provide more gains for progressives and for America in general over the next four years than the current hostile and essentially negative approach. Let's find them and work on them together, as one Nation.
You either stand against racism, or you stand for it.
68
And you apparently are for it
When politics now infiltrates amateur sports, things have gone too far.
I suppose they would have no problem visiting a Hillary White House, whose path would have included being fed debate questions in advance with no indication that such "inside information" was unwelcome.
Going to such a White House would have been a tacit endorsement of cheating.
I suppose they would have no problem visiting a Hillary White House, whose path would have included being fed debate questions in advance with no indication that such "inside information" was unwelcome.
Going to such a White House would have been a tacit endorsement of cheating.
2
"When politics now infiltrates amateur sports?" You might want to Google the 1936 Olympics, @RM.
1
OR they could turn their "feeling unwelcome" at the White House into a statement that this is OUR house, WE are here, and WE have a right to be here, no matter what the current occupant says. In a way, by absenting themselves they go along with the notion that they don't belong and don't have a place. It takes a bit of internal attitude. I am not suggesting that anyone be disrespectful to the office of President, just that there is a way to stand tall and proud that does not suggest support for the current occupant.
10
Geno Auriemma, Chris Dailey, and these young women have class. I think they would agree to not go.
But first they do have to win.
But first they do have to win.
12
I remember Ross Perot said he would not have any teams at the white house as he was too busy. From what I have seen of Trump, he really doesn't follow sports(maybe golf) and won't be insulted. He just had some basic "Brady" thoughts. No harm, no foul and I (although a basketball lover) thought President Obama was way to into sports and modern culture.
3
It's a little premature to be talking about this. Call me superstitious.
1
I would understand if they feared repercussions and decided that they must go. But, I would have a hard time understanding why any of them would want to. This is a man who doesn't know how to be part of a team, how to respect women, how to get along with others, or how to be civil or appropriate in even the most basic of ways. So, I really don't understand why these players would want to go. I wouldn't. But, I'm pretty uncompromising when it comes to matters of self-respect. Not everyone is so inclined or has such freedom.
15
Simple solution: each individual has a God given and constitutional right to do -or not - as they believe. I for one, will not judge
6
This scenarios is going to play itself out over and over again for all winning teams over the next few months ( until this President is impeached )
Respect the office and boycott the man is my only advice.
Respect the office and boycott the man is my only advice.
25
How would that be expressed, "respect the office and boycott the man," exactly?
2
Speaking with the perspective of someone who’s 65 years old, I can say with certainty that winning a championship together will be a far more valuable memory in your life than any trip to the White House. Don’t let this interfere in any way with the bonds you have formed as teammates. That is on an entirely different, and higher, level.
Maybe those who want to go, can go, and those who don’t, can decline. Then everyone can gather on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial for a group photo, each one respecting the other’s choice, but always and forever a team. To be honest, I wish your elders could find it within themselves to act that way. Maybe you can show us the way.
Oh, and I don’t want to put a whammy on you, so try hard, don’t get ahead of yourselves and stay in the moment, because nothing is guaranteed. Just another of those things you learn in the course of life.
Maybe those who want to go, can go, and those who don’t, can decline. Then everyone can gather on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial for a group photo, each one respecting the other’s choice, but always and forever a team. To be honest, I wish your elders could find it within themselves to act that way. Maybe you can show us the way.
Oh, and I don’t want to put a whammy on you, so try hard, don’t get ahead of yourselves and stay in the moment, because nothing is guaranteed. Just another of those things you learn in the course of life.
19
Be remembered for those brave enough and cool enough to have made a stand against this tyrant.
30
i'm a lawyer, my wife's a doctor, we have 5 adult children..all professionals, our youngest daughter is a pro bball player, she played division 1 college ball....we taught our children to think independently and to be kind and compassionate people...which they all are. They said that to any way show support or patronize an admitted sexual predator would be shameful for any woman. They said even if he wasn't, they weren't interested in meeting a man who's never read a book, who just watches TV...fake hair/fake wrestling/fake trump university...is exactly the kind of man they have no interest in meeting
5
I am a long-time fan of UConn and travel to see the team play as often as I can.
However, should they choose not to visit the White House, I will never attend another game again.
This is about the presidency and respect for its position in our society, not whether or not you like the person currently sitting behind the desk.
However, should they choose not to visit the White House, I will never attend another game again.
This is about the presidency and respect for its position in our society, not whether or not you like the person currently sitting behind the desk.
17
Is this not also about the struggles of a group of young women to work out a reasonable team decision that respects their differences and aspirations, and understanding of the significance of such a visit? Their respectful airing of those differences - and work to understand the significance of their decision - is a model for others.
12
Good for you....exercise your right to choose what you do and say. Now, respect these young women for having and exercising the same right.
4
I respectfully disagree. To me it is about freedom of speech. To respect a person within that office that has openly stood against everything you are as a human being does not deserve your respect.
2
Don't go. We must all resist Trump and what he stands for - injustice, bigotry, chaos, greed, disharmony - in whatever ways we can, in things big and small. Going would be, in part, a sign of respect and he does not deserve respect.
21
Hopefully all the NCAA teams will follow their conscience with regards to meeting with the so called POTUS.
I doubt that Donald Trump realizes it but one of the US strongest qualities is that a person like Trump is free to behave like a real horses hindquarters. I doubt Trump's apparent hero Putin would tolerate Trump's antics.
I hope that the NCAA championships are able to avoid being dragged into the current political swamp. I will respect whatever choice the athletes make with regards to,visiting the White House.
I doubt that Donald Trump realizes it but one of the US strongest qualities is that a person like Trump is free to behave like a real horses hindquarters. I doubt Trump's apparent hero Putin would tolerate Trump's antics.
I hope that the NCAA championships are able to avoid being dragged into the current political swamp. I will respect whatever choice the athletes make with regards to,visiting the White House.
7
As noted in the story, the fact that we are even having this conversation says it all.
19
There are several teams that could win this tournament. I hope every one of those teams hold the same thoughts regarding social consciousness.
18
It is no honor to meet a man who insulted and bullied his way through the primaries, lost the popular election by 3 MM votes, and eked out an Electoral College victory with the Kremlin's orchestrated disinformation and cyber hacking campaigns.
He is presently tearing apart immigrant families - children and grandchildren from parents and grandparents - because he has no compassion or morality.
He is appointing billionaires to pollute the environment, dismantle public education, and formulate regressive tax policies that will bankrupt Social Security and Medicare while enriching people who already own 90% of America's wealth.
He is a Russian puppet, making an enemy of the free press, and is an insult to American democracy.
I wouldn't return his phone call much less visit him at a house he has no right to live in.
He is presently tearing apart immigrant families - children and grandchildren from parents and grandparents - because he has no compassion or morality.
He is appointing billionaires to pollute the environment, dismantle public education, and formulate regressive tax policies that will bankrupt Social Security and Medicare while enriching people who already own 90% of America's wealth.
He is a Russian puppet, making an enemy of the free press, and is an insult to American democracy.
I wouldn't return his phone call much less visit him at a house he has no right to live in.
90
So you would have preferred Jeb Bush? The entire Bush family is Saudi puppets. Or maybe Ted Cruz?
I know. You would have preferred a Wall Street puppet.
I know. You would have preferred a Wall Street puppet.
3
well said.
2
And 45* isn't a Wall Street puppet? Take a look at his cabinet.
3
Who cares what they do? Let them individually make their own choices. I think sports teams visiting the White House is stupid! Politics and sports shouldn't mix.
11
Why insult yourselves? As young, intelligent women, don't subject yourselves to that. Why not get in touch with the Obamas and hang out with them for a day. Now that would be fun.
62
You can go or choose not to go, but do not go with the thought that anything you say or do will be a platform to show your beliefs to this president. He has shown no capacity to learn or understand other people's positions, so any ulterior motive will be for naught.
28
The players do not have agents or union protection, but they have moral right on their side. The U would be on shaky ground cancelling scholarships of players who did not attend, and Auriemma has to know it would hurt recruiting.
18
You only have a few chances in life to take a stand, to stand up and be counted. Donald Trump has shown himself to be against every value that an institution like the University of Connecticut stands for; and he certainly has no respect for women.
So don't feel compelled to go to the White House and be a part of the Trump circus. He's just not worth it.
So don't feel compelled to go to the White House and be a part of the Trump circus. He's just not worth it.
127
To the UConn women: You have distinguished yourselves on the basketball court and hopefully in the classroom. First, you have to win the title. Stranger things have happened in sports. Second, after you win the title (don't assume) then you will have to do some soul searching and ask yourselves, your coaches, teammates, classmates, family and professors some challenging questions. Use this opportunity for self discovery and grow personally and intellectually. There is no one "right" answer, but together you will make the decision that is best for your team. Make the most of this experience not only for yourselves, but also for all female athletes who adore and idolize you. Good luck on the court and I hope you have the opportunity to choose whether to go to the White House or not go. You have been champions, and continue to be champions; I'm sure you will decide like champions.
36
I think it is taking things too far. You are respecting the office of President, even though Mr. Trump as a person does not deserve any respect as he neither respects the office of President nor any other human being.
6
"neither respects the office of President nor any other human being"
Why would any human being want to go in that case?
Why would any human being want to go in that case?
6
think of how the 1936 Olympics gave legitimacy to the regime .
Lets hope these fine women are invited to meet him on a weekend. At least they'll get a trip to Florida out of it.
6
Don't go ladies. You all have too much class to get involved in any way with the Trump White House.
158
Absolutely, they should go. There is no good excuse not too.
8
The best reason not to go is the fact they are women.
27
Besides the fact that Trump objectifies women and has committed and bragged about committing sexual assault?
30
See bb's comment above.
Could be very tough dilemma. Maybe Trump will be impeached by then, though Pence isn't any better than Trump. Trump would probably find a way to take credit for UConn's success.
14
Hopefully the UCONN women will be national champions again. There is no reason for the women to attend anything at the White House where they face the potential for Trump to grope them or tell them they are too fat, skinny or ugly. To do the right thing for women they should not go anywhere near Trump or the White House.
122
Makes me want to root for anyone but UCONN.
P.S. We'll see how Berkeley prospers after President Trump cuts all Federal Funding from Sanctuary Cities.
P.S. We'll see how Berkeley prospers after President Trump cuts all Federal Funding from Sanctuary Cities.
1
Talk about putting the cart before the horse! You can't assume or even presume who will be 2017 champions. Stay focused and take it one game at a time.
7
If members of the team do not wish to be pictured or identified with the man who has bragged about sexually assaulting women, it would seem perfectly logical to me. They don't just play basketball; they are thinking college students who can figure things out for themselves.
71
It still a long way to a championship. While the question of whether to go has crossed some minds, I expect them to do what they always have, focus on winning. If and when they win the championship, I expect them to again do what they've always done, respond as a team. I have no idea which way they will choose, but I fully expect it to be all or nothing. I was raised to believe one respects the person and not the office. Not meeting the president is hardly the worse thing that can happen, either to the team or the president.
3
Meeting the President isn't mandatory. These women can make up their own minds. I'm Pro-Choice.
28
The president should stop inviting any sports team to the White House as a reward for championships. It's really a waste of time.
7
It used to be an honor. What's honorable about meeting with Donald Trump?
9
As role model for men wanting to learn how
to grope women and get away with it, I think he would be good. For anybody else, I can't see it.
to grope women and get away with it, I think he would be good. For anybody else, I can't see it.
23
It is everyone's obligation to send a message about Trump. It is not okay to sit on the fence on this subject. He is a criminal and does not need to be legitimized or normalized in any way. Do not go to the White House.
110
I for one hope team members in their studies have learned of the Alabama bus boycott, southern luncheon counter sit down, and the peaceful activism of Congressman John Lewis that gave rise to civil rights voting legislation which the President's Attorney General as a Senator contributed to its partial dismantling and as the nation's highest law enforcement official is unlikely to act to uphold.
I for one hope they will recognize the President's actions towards women, immigrants and minorities.
I for one hope they recognize that in deregulating the financial industry President Trump will affect many with exorbitant interest -bearing student loans.
I for one hope that in not responding to an invitation that would be for Trump a political photo op they demonstrate the maturity to peacefully remonstrate against policies and aims that deleteriously affect them as multi-cultural women students.
I for one hope they will recognize the President's actions towards women, immigrants and minorities.
I for one hope they recognize that in deregulating the financial industry President Trump will affect many with exorbitant interest -bearing student loans.
I for one hope that in not responding to an invitation that would be for Trump a political photo op they demonstrate the maturity to peacefully remonstrate against policies and aims that deleteriously affect them as multi-cultural women students.
45
might be wise to await better representation of American values
32
Trump is like a spoiled child - he needs guidance in setting boundaries. He should not escape the social consequences of behaving like a tyrant.
25
These women are true student athletes. I wish them good luck in their season and their future. I would just remind them that if they win and go to the trump White House, they will be props for a man who on his best day, objectifies women. And on his regular day, molests women.
151
I get the distinct impression that Trump would be just as happy not to host them. I don't think he's going to be doing any of the lighthearted ceremonial things associated with the office: no sports teams, no Easter egg hunt, no correspondents dinner, no turkey pardon, no Kennedy Center awards, no Christmas tree. He knows that his constituency doesn't care about that stuff, and that most of the people who participate in those kinds of things didn't vote for him.
18
I think many athletes did. your logic seems flawed.
We do not currently have a president. We have an attention-starved child and his sycophants.
Abstain. Do not participate in this fraud.
Abstain. Do not participate in this fraud.
199
As a UConn Huskies fan, I would like to see them take at least one more championship (this year). It would be the twelfth and five in a row...demonstrating it's the program rather than the individual players who make the team. An incredibly important life lesson for Americans at this point in time.
As a huge proponent of women's college basketball generally, I cannot imagine a more jarring clash of cultures than what these accomplished, disciplined and self-confident young women would create meeting the groper-in-chief. Is he going to abuse his grip-and-pull handshake trick? Will the Assistant Coaches insist on extra chaperones?
I know that Geno Auriemma and his staff will respect the players' wishes should the issue arise.
It will be a teaching moment.
As a huge proponent of women's college basketball generally, I cannot imagine a more jarring clash of cultures than what these accomplished, disciplined and self-confident young women would create meeting the groper-in-chief. Is he going to abuse his grip-and-pull handshake trick? Will the Assistant Coaches insist on extra chaperones?
I know that Geno Auriemma and his staff will respect the players' wishes should the issue arise.
It will be a teaching moment.
45
As a UConn student, I don't see why basketball is suddenly a political issue. Our campus is already ridden with political views and protests that distract students like myself from our education. Basketball games seem to be the one place to get away from it all and it would be a shame to politicize it.
20
The bigger shame is that horror that occupies the Oval Office. I, a college student as well, think that anything that normalizes Trump's presidency is wrong.
A more disturbing issue about your post is the notion that politics are distracting you and other students. Politics is the process through which people learn to live with one another. To avoid it, or wish it away, deprives students of a very important aspect of their personal growth. That you find differing political views as distracting is frightening.
A more disturbing issue about your post is the notion that politics are distracting you and other students. Politics is the process through which people learn to live with one another. To avoid it, or wish it away, deprives students of a very important aspect of their personal growth. That you find differing political views as distracting is frightening.
15
The illusion one can "get away from it all" - from politics - is a symptom of someone with scant appreciation for what's at stake, in the U.S., in 2017.
School and basketball are the distractions.
School and basketball are the distractions.
12
Dear John
Sports teams are supposed to be a part of the University, not an escape from it or mindless entertainment for you. This team is an opportunity for these young women to struggle, work themselves to the point of literal exhaustion, and see if they can learn from trying. The reason why an honorable President would honor them is because this is an act of courage and these young women should inspire us all to emulate them. The question arises as to whether we are currently in a situation where that can happen.
What values we applaud and uphold is a political statement. Wake up, dude.
Sports teams are supposed to be a part of the University, not an escape from it or mindless entertainment for you. This team is an opportunity for these young women to struggle, work themselves to the point of literal exhaustion, and see if they can learn from trying. The reason why an honorable President would honor them is because this is an act of courage and these young women should inspire us all to emulate them. The question arises as to whether we are currently in a situation where that can happen.
What values we applaud and uphold is a political statement. Wake up, dude.
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If they are worried about going or not before they win the title, they have bigger problems.
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Tell the women to put the values of human rights and justice above a trip to the white house.
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Yes, don't bother to meet a misogynist so called president.
We had the real deal, they met with him. That book is closed.
We had the real deal, they met with him. That book is closed.
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I think that Pres. Trump should end this custom after the Patriots come and go. There's too much politics going on. BTW, shouldn't Connecticut go and win first before speculating about this? Not that there is much doubt but still.
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Coach Auriemma and the women of the UConn basketball team, the decision is simple. You as a team lead by Coach Auriemma over the years have accomplished what no other basketball team(collegiate and professional) have ever done with 100 consecutive wins. If your coach or any other member of the team does not feel comfortable in accepting an invite to the White House after possibly winning another championship for obvious reasons as to the record of personal conduct they have displayed over the years; then as a team it should be understood to decline the invite. It took you as a team under the guidance of Coach Auriemma to get to where you are at. Win the Championship and prove not only to yourselves, the country, and the rest of the world that you are a better person as a team than even the most powerful person in the most prestigious office. That alone shall definitely send a valid wake-up call to that person who is currently occupying it. My two cents. Good Luck and Best Wishes to winning that championship! Go Lady Huskies!
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Do the right thing, U Conn.
Don't normalize our Cretin-In-Chief, who disgraces, demeans and devolves our country each day with his odious existence.
Boycott our national boil.
Don't normalize our Cretin-In-Chief, who disgraces, demeans and devolves our country each day with his odious existence.
Boycott our national boil.
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Tell the girls to put country above left wing politics. That will solve the problem.
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I'm, they're not "girls," they're young women. And I might say the same of the GOP: putting their country ahead of a crazy, incompetent, deceitful, and possibly treasonous President who actually lost the popular vote by almost 3 million.
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Perhaps if the president put the country first this wouldn't be an issue.
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Steve -- Whether the young women have left, right, or centrist views, you seem to be saying they should not be allowed any choice in the matter and should put their elected President (aka their "country") above their personal beliefs and right to free speech. This is not the draft in the 1960s or some other serious political and personal decision, it's the possibility of a winning team being invited to the White House as they were in the past. There is no guarantee that this President, who has turned down one basketball photo-op, won't turn this one down as well, so there may be no visit to weigh by the young women and their coach. Come April, Trump will assuredly be more focused on The Masters than college basketball.
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As a UConn graduate and a big fan of the women's basketball team, I fervently hope they win yet another national championship. After that, I have confidence in Coach Auriema, his staff, and the women on the team that they will "do the right thing," whatever that may be.
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I agree you will do the right thing...but posted my own dismay at the thought of your being used my tweet says NO Don't Go..but you've already won..you ARE a team...and will decide thus...
You could turn down the invitation, should it come, but tell Trump you will visit if he releases his tax returns and strengthens our gun control laws.
The U of CT is an hour and half from Newtown, CT.
The U of CT is an hour and half from Newtown, CT.
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