<p>How much input does a coach have regarding appointments for recruited athletes? Obviously all of the other factors of a qualified candidate are still important, but do athletes get a little leeway in some areas if they are recruited by Air Force coaches?</p>
<p>Generally, yes. But, as you say, they still must meet the standards and are expected to do so as cadets, too. They’ll take the same classes, do the same summer programs, and the same academic year training–except when excused to participate in their sport. Excusals are not just unique to intercollegiate athletes. Clubs and other organizations petition through the Academy’s scheduling committee for excusals to regularly scheduled activity when they want to participate in something else.</p>