...so why the need for the waiver at all then?
For the very reason he said, people are overly fearful of liability so they want a waiver.
It is fear driven, just like many officials express concern over being held legally liable for some kind of action or decision on the football field. More fear than reality to any of us being sued and losing in court. Just doesn't happen. Maybe one day, but the odds, at least at the moment is slim to none.