Fans Rally as Football Player Fined for Wearing a Cross

December 29, 2003

Source: Beliefnet

http://www.beliefnet.com/story/137/story_13787_1.html

On December 29, 2003 Beliefnet reported on a controversial call by the National Football League, which fined Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Jon Kitna $5,000 for a cap emblazoned with a cross symbolizing his devotion to Jesus. "The NFL told the Bengals Kitna was in violation of a rule requiring all merchandise worn by players or other team personnel to be approved and licensed by the football league. The cross cap was not a licensed item. The news hit hard in the Queen City, and upon learning of the NFL's decision, owners of The Catholic Shop in a northern suburb decided they would begin selling the caps for $5 a pop. Since Dec. 22, they've sold more than 4,000 of the black caps with a white embroidered cross, and they anticipate selling up to 1,000 a day."