Solid character is a trait that many strive for, but a limited number achieve. To have character in relating with other people, a few qualities must be met: one must be kind, honest, respect others, and also take into account how decisions can positively or negatively impact the lives of those around them.
The voices from Kirkland have of late been showing a lack of the above traits. The actions of the administration in their abrupt dismissal of the men\'s soccer team were at best, questionable and at worst, reprehensible. The first mention of the school\'s need to get back into accordance with Title IX was when the team was dismissed; no warning was given, only the stark reality that the school they had given their time, sweat, and effort for was turning their back on them.
Providing an equal opportunity for men and women to participate in athletics is awesome and Vanderbilt should do everything it can to do so. The question arises in how they handled this situation and if a better solution could have been explored. The administration says that the athletic department can\'t handle keeping the men\'s soccer team and adding multiple women\'s sports (volleyball, softball anyone?), but outside observers have stated that it would be possible, if only Vandy would get their act together when it comes to athletics. Dr. Sharon L. Shields, former president of the National Association of Girls and Women in Sport, said that the problem was due to \"the stagnant athletics budget and numerous wasteful spending projects within that department as perpetuating the very problems that the school is trying to fix by eliminating the men\'s soccer team.\" Alumni have also noticed the seemingly moribund condition of athletics, with one anonymous source stating that a season ticket offer to all sports was offered in Spring 2005 (accompanied by a contract guaranteeing the seats), but when this fall brought basketball season, the athletic department just said \"Sorry, no tickets for basketball.\" I encourage everyone to note the successful development strategy being used to cultivate alumni donations.
