"I'm not saying that the press is wrong to report any internal differences we have, but at the same time, I think it's our job to keep them from becoming public issues, for anything that detracts from the purely athletic aspects of the sport is bad for us"

In this quote, Pete Rozelle, who was a prominent NFL commissioner, articulates a nuanced perspective on the relationship in between internal sports characteristics and media coverage. Rozelle acknowledges a fundamental function of the press: to report on the happenings within companies, including differences or disputes. This recommends he understands and respects the freedom and duty of the media to share information that might be vital for public knowledge, openness, and responsibility.

Nevertheless, Rozelle underscores a critical concern about the potential ramifications of such disclosures on the understanding of the sport. By highlighting "it's our job to keep them from becoming public issues", he mentions the responsibility of sports organizations to manage and reduce internal disagreements without letting them intensify into public spectacles. This statement indicates that while internal distinctions are inevitable in any company, the focus should remain on resolving them agreeably and professionally. Rozelle likely believes that overexposure or sensationalist coverage of these concerns might distract audiences, gamers, and other stakeholders from the main focus: the athletic competition itself.

Furthermore, Rozelle's assertion that "anything that detracts from the purely athletic elements of the sport is bad for us" speaks to his advocacy for the integrity and purity of the sporting experience. In this context, 'us' might refer to the league, the fans, the players, and anybody purchased the sport. He indicates that the core value of sports depends on its athletic elements-- teamwork, competition, and excellence. Any discrepancy from this focus due to publicized internal debates may deteriorate the sport's appeal and could potentially result in monetary, reputational, or cultural damage.

In summary, Pete Rozelle's quote reflects a delicate balancing act in between respecting the press's function and protecting the integrity of the sport by focusing on its athletic essence. His statement calls for strategic handling of internal problems to keep a positive public image and make sure that the sport continues to thrive.