Dear Editor, One of your staff recently wrote an article with the opinion of making football here at Guilford College a club sport. This concerns me, being a football player.

In this article, not only was this person’s lack of respect for the thousands of past athletes here at Guilford, but had many incorrect statements and numbers included.

Here at Guilford, and any other college, a Student athlete is a special person. One who is able to be attend an academically challenging college and succeed on the field is a major accomplishment. This instills characteristics in a man that go beyond the field such as work ethic, team unity, and drive to accomplish goals in life. Many past athletes here have been successful.

In the article Mr. Williams addressed the amount football loses each year (financially speaking). He failed to included the tuition football bring in. These numbers should be considered.

When a person visits Guilford, or is a student here, they know that Guilford is first and foremost academics. High standards are in place, which is an important priority. With that said, athletics (all sports) are lacking in funds. These funds to be used to improve facilities, hire better coaches, etc.

To correct Mr. Williams further, Guilford’s football staff includes 7 coaches including Head Coach, not 11. To add to this statement, the coaches are barely compensated for their major commitment to football.

Finally, all past athletes of Guilford College realize that we have the opportunity to participate and compete at the college level. We love the game. This is why we chose Guilford. Majority of us do not plan to play past college and this sport adds to the “quality of life” here at Guilford. We thank you for your opinion. We value our opportunity and enjoy football.

Many programs go under coach changes. It’s normal. It’s part of the process to have a winning program. Thank you for allowing me to voice my opinion here at Guilford College.

T.J. Beroth 07′
[email protected]