Thursday, September 4, 1980-Sec. F-14 Pages
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thletes at Michigan often find themselves in the tenuous position
of maintaining a satisfactory performance in the classroom,
while simultaneously attempting to excel above their peers in
their respective sports. The fact that these athletes, unlike their
professional counterparts, are highly visible within the campus community
allows their supporters to become more personally involved with their
progress. This breadth of support does indeed exist, both -in Michigan
Stadium and Margaret Bell Pool, the Track and Tennis Building and
Crisler Arena.
But the loyalty and attention which is showered upon these athletes is
often subjugated by issues arising from the concern about the overall
welfare of intercollegiate athletics. Women athletes are demanding, but
not often receiving, economic support commensurate with their male coun-
terparts. Drug use is becoming more visible among competitors as both a
total of psychological uplift and an escape from the pressures that go along
with the title "student-athlete." Meanwhile, a depressed economy is for-
cing administrators to decrease support of, and often eliminate, certain
programs. Michigan athletes are thus understandably facing greater
pressure in their day-to-day activities both in the classroom and on the
field.
After reading this section, you will discover that most Michigan,
athletic teams are extremely successful, and for good reason. The Univer-
sity has been, and remains, a haven for quality athletes who desire both
comprehensive education and a fulfilling athletic experience. With the
arrival of Don Canham in 1968 to the athletic director post, the University
vigorously promoted its athletic program, thereby generating further in-
terest among those people who had been previously indifferent toward the
Maize and Blue. And now, more than ever, "The Victors" presents an
image of greatness to Michigan athletes and their supporters, encouraging
them to preserve the "Michigan tradition" of success on the athletic field.
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