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SALT LAKE CITY -- Most Americans don't mind public displays of religion by professional athletes, according to a new survey.
The poll by Grey Matter Research and Consulting concludes, "Most Americans are comfortable with the intersection of religion and professional sports."
The poll of more than 1,000 American adults asked them about their reactions to specific displays of faith, such as athletes praying together on the field after a game, giving credit to God for their performance, or making religious signs or gestures after accomplishing something during a game.
The numbers shows 49 percent of respondents views such expressions of faith favorably; 32 percent don't care, and 19 percent have a negative view.
The least favorite expression of religion -- viewed negatively by 26 percent of respondents -- was athletes crediting Deity for helping them or their team in their sports accomplishments.
The study authors say it's worth noting that "even among Americans who do not attend religious services, 38 percent generally have a positive reaction to religious expressions by professional athletes, while just 25 percent tend to have a negative reaction."
Study: Religion and Professional Sports
| Expression | Positive | Don't Care | Negative |
|---|---|---|---|
| Athletes from opposing teams gathering for prayer after game | 55% | 32% | 12% |
| Athletes speaking about faith in interviews after the game | 52% | 29% | 20% |
| Athletes making a religious sign | 49% | 34% | 17% |
| Athletes praying for victory before game | 48% | 35% | 17% |
| Athletes speaking at religious events to encourage attendance | 47% | 34% | 19% |
| Athletes suggesting Deity helped them accomplish something | 43% | 31% | 26% |
