In mediation, statement can be a powerful indicator of point of view.  Today, statements were issued by both the National Football League and representatives of the players' union.  The two statements came after the 8^th Circuit Court of Appeals issued a ruling regarding the league's decision to lock out players.  The court determined that the lockout would stay in place for the time being.

Mediation: Statement from Players About No Season

The statement from representatives of the players' union revealed bleak prospects for the season: "The NFL's request for a stay of the lockout that was granted today means no football.”  The statement went on to explain the players continue to be in mediation, working toward the goal of trying "to save the 2011 season.”  According to the statement, the 8^th Circuit Court will hear a full appeal on the issue in early June.

The statement from the league also spoke of reaching an eventual agreement, remarking that this would "improve the game for the benefit of current and retired players, teams, and most importantly, the fans.”  According to the NFL statement, the litigation is a distraction from the important work of mediation where "these issues should be resolved”.  However, the league's position is clearly not that litigation in all forms is a bad thing, since their statement went on to remark on their confidence that the appeals court will side in their favor.