<p>So, Pete0six, what you’re saying is that we should recognize athletic talent and reward it by sending those kids to elite academic institutions? No. Send them to elite athletic institutions, then, like USC or ND. Sure, they are perhaps at Middlebury more so to get an education than they are to procure a spot in the NFL draft, but there are many more academically qualified applicants who would benefit more from a Middlebury education than those athletes. </p>
<p>For example, let’s consider a bright, gifted, capable student who would benefit far more from a Middlebury education than the second student, who is an academically average athletic recruit. The athlete is admitted, the scholar is not. Ultimately, neither will play sports professionally. Therefore if your goal is to provide an enriching learning experience to those students who will change the world, then it is in your best interest to admit the former student.</p>
<p>If you are going to consider the fact that most Middlebury athletes are not going to be considered for professional sports then you simply cannot compare athletics to other extracurriculars such as fine arts and drama because many students who pursue those latter extracurriculars do plan on being professionals in those fields. You can major in art, drama, and dance. You can’t major in soccer or football.</p>