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The National Football League will honor the 250th anniversary of the United States of America later this season with a special ball and field decor.
The pigskin, which will begin to be used during the final week of the season, will feature the word “America” with the number 250 in a red, white and blue ribbon.
The league also said there would be special badges in the end zone, as well as commemorative coins for referees throughout the playoffs, including Super Bowl LX in the Bay Area.
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Entertainer Jon Batiste sings the national anthem before the national anthem before Super Bowl LIX between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs at Caesars Superdome. (Kirby Lee/Imagn Images)
There will also be a celebration at the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh.
“The NFL is proud to participate in celebrating America’s 250th birthday,” NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said in a statement. “The history of the NFL reflects that of America, and the American spirit of resilience, innovation and teamwork has helped football become a cultural pastime that unites us all. We are excited to honor our country’s history and celebrate our collective future.”
Coaches and staff will also receive special apparel for playoff games, and fans will be able to purchase these apparel online.
The NFL will use this ball starting in Week 18. (NFL)
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The league is also “collaborating with its broadcast partners to present a special performance of ‘God Bless America’ during the Week 18 Saturday night game,” the release said.
Goodell said the league is working with the White House’s Salute to America 250 task force to honor the country.
The parts used by the referees will be sold at auction, the NFL said.
Week 18 games will be played on January 3-4, with many playoff spots up for grabs.
An American flag covers the field before an NFL game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the New York Giants in Philadelphia. (PA)
The 250th anniversary celebration will also include a UFC event taking place on the South Lawn of the White House on June 14, President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday.
