For many colleges and Universities in America, intercollegiate athletics mean big money, but for others, the athletic program means big headache. Some athletic programs at colleges and Universities generate millions of dollars for general academic programs, and other programs fund the campus library. The truth is that many institutions have to rely on using funds generated from athletics to pay for general academic programs.

For other campuses, the bitter feelings erupt claiming that the athletics' program is given preferential treatment compared to the academic units of the campus. Athletics are becoming increasingly expensive programs for building ties with alumni, community and prospective students. Whatever your feelings are, athletics serve a very important role on a college campus. First and foremost, athletics provides opportunities for students to be involved -- both on the field and off the field. Participating in an athletic team is a wonderful way to become involved; however, the athletes cannot win games by themselves. They need the support of the fans. Whether you attend a school that has a football stadium that seats 75,000 or 750, show your school spirit! Not every college or University has a football team, but every college or University has some kind of team, and they need your support!

Many college students feel that student athletes are given preferential treatment. Think about the extra expectations that are put on student athletes. The academic pressure. The physical strain. The emotional stress. In order to be an athlete, a student is required to maintain a certain grade point average. It only makes sense that the school should provide some extra help if they require extra expectations. The academic counseling, tutoring and other types of assistance are just that -- assistance, not special treatment.

The next time you hear someone complain about the ticket prices for the next basketball game costing money or the cokes being too expensive, remind them that the library needs maintained, the laboratories need updated and the academic areas need help making ends meet. As long as big-time sports continue to be profit generating on many college campuses, they will always have an impact of that particular college or University.

Do your part -- support your athletic teams. In the long run, you are only helping yourself as well!

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