The Proposed Site of Columbia in Reference to Athletics.

In a recent number of the Columbia Spectator the proposed new site of Columbia College at 116th Street is discussed in relation to athletics. In choosing between a position so near the city as this, and a country site, the question of the influence exerted by each upon athletics is of course an important one to those who are interested in the development of this side of the college. Contrary to what might be expected, most of the leading country colleges, such as Amherst, Cornell, Dartmouth and Williams are decidedly inferior in athletics to Yale and Harvard; and Princeton, the most important country college is certainly not the superior of these two, both of which are near cities. It seems that location has less influence than enthusiasm and college spirit in keeping these three universities in the lead in athletics. The determination to win in every possible branch of athletics prevades the whole college and brings out many candidates for the teams. It is reasonable to suppose, then that the site nearer the city will certainly not check the growth of a like spirit in Columbia. And the conditions for its development will be present. And the conditions for its development will be present. Dormitories will give the college life which is one of Columbia's greatest needs. A gymnasium will undoubtedly be built. Within five minutes' walk is the Hudson River and the Harlem is not more than fifteen minutes away. The athletic field can be reached within half an hour by the N. Y. and Northern Railroad.

On the whole it seems probable that the athletics of the college will be more benefited by choosing the position at 116th Street than one in the country where the number of men would be smaller, the chance for growth less, and no prospect of better or more accessible water or a better field than at present.