[Danzig]

it is appalling the amount of bs that teams will put up with in the name of winning. but it starts at the lower levels, where a sense of entitlement is nurtured by schools and coaches willing to play by two sets of rules, one for most players, and another set for those who are extremely talented. one example, the fsu players a few years ago who were receiving steep discounts on clothing from an ardent fan. the 2nd stringer was kicked off the team, while the starting receiver was tapped on the hand and told not to do it again. wonderful. hell of a way to learn your lesson.

a woman i worked with had a step-son struggling in 9th grade, ultimately failing--so she and her husband said no extra-curricular unless grades are picked up, meaning no football. the coach said if we don't fail him, will you let him play? FANTASTIC. i mean, after all, who cares if the kid knows his math or can read, he can play! so he moved on to 10th grade, and played football.
well, i guess someone has to flip the burgers....only a very small percentage of these kids go on to make a career of it--schools and parents do them no favors!