What is “just another reason athletics should be removed?” It sure appears you have drawn a straight line from athletes to cheating.
I understand that you don’t believe athletics has a place in college. You are free to have that belief. What are your reasons to eliminate an activity which fosters teamwork, goal recognition, health, communication, values functioning within a hierarchical organization, provides life long contacts/support, encourages leadership, responsibility, setting priorities, and much much more. Employers seek out varsity athletes - so participation in college athletics doesn’t seem to be an impediment to finding a home in the work force; in schools where athletic scholarships are given, college is made affordable to people who may not otherwise have the wherewithall to afford a higher education.
College campus is a collage of interests. No one forces anyone to participate as an athlete; indeed, over 90% of HS athletes (for a myriad of reasons) do not play varsity at the collegiate level. As I said before, there are major issues which need to be addressed in college sports. But as another poster noted: you appear to be advocating a baby and bath water approach.
Mene, we cross posted. I totally disagree that “getting pounded” is detrimental and doesn’t build character. Athletes are accustomed to failing; they may not enjoy it or like it, but there are times that athletes just get pounded. Winning and losing is part of their burden - often failing spectacularly. (One standard interview question S fielded was “tell me about your greatest failures?” He - and every other athlete - has three ring binders filled figuratively with massive failures.)
I understand the position that varsity athletics has no redeeming value in college. Sports apparently plays a huge role in American society - it’s entertainment and big business all rolled into one. Sports plays a huge role for young kids, middle aged kids, teens and most post-college adults. Yet, there is no room at the inn for college athletes - they should pursue their passion anywhere but college.