The explanation given back then (I’m relying on memory) was that apart from the “chukoseihem” of the Emori (avoda zora), there are “darchei ha-emori” (“secular” goyish ways). These aren’t avoda zora but should be avoided anyway. It’s not specific to sports, it concerns products of goyish culture in general. Standing for the sirens in EY might be another example.
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