No Motion On the Sidelines

In reflecting on my Harvard undergraduate career, possibly the most enlightening yet enduring experience has been my four year association with the varsity football program. To realize that over half of my time at one of the greatest academic institutions in the world was devoted to preparation for games that I was rarely allowed to participate in, might seem to many people to have been a waste of time. However, I am convinced that it was not a complete waste because of the friendships and opportunities that developed, and the practical education I received as a result of my affiliation.

As a football player and athlete, being deprived of the opportunity to contribute to the success of the team during games was a constant source of frustration. Knowing that I possessed the ability to make a substantial contribution added a touch of bitterness. Seeing several teammates faced with similar situations caused me to wonder what determined who played during games, because ability did not always appear to be the main factor.

The average fan is not aware of the vast talent that atrophies on the bench. Harvard traditionally has received the most abundant number of talented athletes in the Ivy League. Inefficient and inequitable utilization of talent is not acceptable in an institution that operates under the philosophy of "athletics for all." To deny a capable young athlete an opportunity to play on criteria other than ability can be a disruptive influence on daily college life; an added mental and emotional burden must be faced, and opportunities to participate in more favorable activities are missed.

The question of why I continued on the team although I was not receiving the playing time I deserved, has frequently come up. Primarily, I continued because of my confidence in my own ability and a strong desire to participate in a very enjoyable sport. To leave the team would not rectify the situation and would have been a source of regret for years to come. The continual support I received from family, friends and teammates helped me endure the cold days on the practice fields and sidelines, but the ultimate support came from friends and family in Nigeria who were joyous to learn that I just attempted to play "American football".

It is said that from every negative situation or circumstance an equal or greater benefit will accrue. Because of my playing experience I am much better able to appreciate the relationships formed with team members and supporters, exposure to a unique side of Harvard not seen by most students, and the lessons in personal development I received. In the long run by having to struggle against frustration and bitterness about my athletic experience, unexpected situations will be much easier to handle. It is extremely easy to lose sight of more important issues in life by becoming too deeply involved in football. The de-emphasis of football from the high status it held after my graduation from high school is another benefit that has led me to be grateful for my experience here.

Whatever the criteria are for the selection of players, it is not difficult to give an early assessment of the relative standing of an individual player. It is unfortunate that the athletes here, all intelligent people, are subjected to arbitrary and subjective decisions about receiving playing time. A method to improve the player selection process may be to have the players themselves pick the line-up on the basis of practice performance. This method ensures a sense of objectivity as the only criterion for selection is outstanding performance. While this may seem a bit drastic, the point to be emphasized is that there is room for improvement in the Harvard system. All that choose to devote as much time and energy as is demanded by football should be given a fair and equal chance to play. Being involved with the team is an experience that I feel honored to have had, I salute all those who have endured four years.