The Status of Blacks in the Big Ten Athletic Conference: Issues and Concerns

Black Athletes: Educational, Economic, and Political Considerations

“…For example, athletes are frequently encouraged by athletic departments to major in physical education rather than calculus or engineering. They are often steered to courses taught by sympathetic professors who may be willing to pass a star performer regardless of his classroom performance (Green et al 1972). T h e Black athlete is deceived into believing his success as a student is irrelevant since he is headed toward a long and profitable career in professional athletics; alternatives are not offered.…”

“…In reality, few college athletes ever achieve professional status (Green et al 1972). As Charles G. Hurst, former professor and college president, said, "There is nothing less wanted in our society than a worn out Negro athlete" (Olsen 1968c, p. 12).…”

“…Eighty-three percent of the white athletes and 46.3 percent of the Black athletes had graduated by November 1970. MSU figures also show that Black athletes take an average of 1.4 terms longer to finish (15 terms compared to 16.4 terms) than the average white athlete (Green et al 1972 (Olsen 1968 a).…”

“…Of those Blacks on coaching staffs, all were assistant or freshman coaches without clearly defined duties, full coaching responsibilities, or authority over the budget. Many Black coaches felt their only responsibility was to recruit Black athletes (Green et al 1972).…”

“…In addition to the absence of Blacks in coaching, officiating, and governing roles, the survey of Big Ten schools found that in seven schools there were no Black clerical employees, secretaries, publicity directors, or team doctors in the athletic departments. There were only two Black trainers and a few Black custodians (Green et al 1972).…”