My steps to becoming legitimate

Ross Simon, Columnist Over the past few months, within this column, I have argued on behalf of Miami University remaining a Division I school, a boost in listenership for WMSR and that in the grand scheme, sports doesn't matter amongst other things. Having said that, I am disappointed, but more appropriately perplexed, at how Miami students have a quasi warped view of the way that a Division I school supports their team. I have compiled a list of steps that any D-I school must take in order to be considered a "legitimate" program. Commitment to athletics. Miami's grade: A Miami currently has one of, if not the, best athletic director in the business. Brad Bates has led this school through thick and thin, and has been recognized nationally by being elected President of the Division I Athletic Directors Association. I give my greatest of congratulations to Bates and the entire athletic staff at Miami. I also commend the fact that rather then try and raise endowment funds using athletics as the kick-start, University President David Hodge and the administrative staff have rather used stellar academics. Fan support. Miami's grade: D- Miami fans are quite simply, pathetic. The only reason this grade is not an 'F' is because of our stellar alumni base. Does it not bother Miami students that at many athletic events, alumni outnumber students in what seems like a 10-1 ratio? I am sick and tired of people using the "we're in the MAC, nobody goes to any MAC team