Clearly, without football, alumni involvement would dwindle. As many of you know, a major component of the US News rankings is percentage of alumni giving. By even considering ending portions of the athletic program, we have already jeopardized that ranking. We must also, however, see football as a resource that shapes the future leaders of our country. President Bloom speaks often of the ethical character of our college.
Football teaches students that perseverance and hard work are the tools of the goal-achiever.
Suffering through three consecutive winless seasons taught me that quitting and giving-up, while they may seem strategic in the short run, are not the mark of excellent character. You, board members, gave up. For the sake of the character of the Swarthmore community, for the development of our young men and women, and for the continued prosperity of the College, please understand that Football is a vital part of the Swarthmore experience.