Go easy on DeBerry

I am writing in regard to the comments recently made by Air Force football coach Fisher DeBerry.

DeBerry said he was upset that his team did not have enough minority players and he needed more black players because “Afro-American kids can run very, very well.” This comment caused much controversy.

I believe DeBerry’s comment was not meant to be used in a racist or discriminating way. It was not meant to be hurtful; it is just what he believes based on his experiences. Even two renowned sports writers (Michael Wilbon and Tony Kornheiser) agreed with what he said on their television show, “Pardon the Interruption.” The two reporters could not remember a single cornerback (a position that requires great speed) who was not African-American.

I’m not saying what he said is completely true, but I think people automatically get riled up whenever an issue involving race is brought up. If people actually listen to what he said and realize his intentions, and if they take his experience with his situation into account, it will become obvious this statement was not very unreasonable at all.

Tyler Bergstrom

Cheney