To the Editor:
Paul Glenn's recent article about stagnant sports programs and the challenges of recruiting was spot on. I would add, however, that it is not only recruiting that is a challenge. There are a couple of Dartmouth sports that I watch closely where the recruiting "yield" is quite good. What alarms me is that young athletes come in with great credentials, but their skill levels and production then decline each year under Dartmouth coaches. That is a sign of bad coaching and lack of inspiration. Dartmouth has tolerated losing in many sports to the extent that it has become a given. Until there is some accountability in the coaching ranks, there will be no inspiration for atheletes to perform at peak levels, no consistent winning and no student support.
Sports success is not Dartmouth's mission. However, like it or not, it sets the tone across campus and the important alumni body. With the college facing $100 million in budget cuts over the next two years, perhaps more accountability is inevitable. What rational bean counter is going to keep paying for a 2-14 team to fly to California for spring practice? I wouldn't.
Martin E. Doyle '76
