National Collegiate Athletic Association
NCAA News Archive - 2000
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Letter to the Editor
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The NCAA News
As a former student-athlete, educator and college coach who has spent the last 20-plus years competing in the business world, I had to comment on an article I read recently in the May 8 issue of The NCAA News entitled, "Coach finds that less can mean more" by Rick Burns, soccer coach at Gordon College.
I was elated as I read coach Burns' article describing his "quality" experience at the Division III level of college athletics. In a time when Division I programs clamor for the spotlight, for television contracts and every other source of income they can find, it's nice to know that there are still student-athletes at the college level who participate simply because they love their sport and for the experience of being part of a team and competing.
Burns' comments and his personal commitment as an educator and coach speak to the very heart and soul of what intercollegiate athletics and the student-athlete experience are supposed to be all about.
I compliment Rick on his article, for the courage to walk away from a Division I program to seek a different kind of experience at the Division III level and for providing his student-athletes at Gordon College with what I am sure was an outstanding experience. Rick's newfound perspective, that less can mean more, is something we all need to think about.
Bud Houghton
Heathrow, Florida
When our son called to tell us that his Notre Dame team was invited to the regionals of the Division I Baseball Championship, my first question was "where?" I was disappointed when he said Starkville because I had an impression of Southeastern Conference fans based on some experiences at football games.
After two hours of trying to find a place to stay that was not 1 1/2 to two hours away, a very kind person at the Starkville Visitors Bureau gave me Shay McDonnell's name. She arranged for a room in a residence hall within walking distance of the field. Not only that, she also put the Notre Dame fans in the same area.
I will not take your time to tell you of all the kindnesses that were extended to us by the baseball fans of Starkville. Simply put, I do want you to know that even if our son is not playing the next time Mississippi State hosts a postseason tournament, we plan to go.
The games were an exhilarating experience. Even though we did not win, none of us left feeling as if we were losers.
Sharon Duff
Sevierville, Tennessee