UConn Huskies Nation

Second time

Today marks the second time this season coach Randy Edsall had to dismiss someone from the team. Five players were thrown off the team after, according to reports, bringing alcohol back to the team hotel in Florida Friday night.
First, let's say this was the right move by Edsall. He is building a program and when you are in your early stages, such as the Huskies are, you can't allow such behavior. Before long it filters down throught the the ranks. This can set a program back years.
But this is the second time this year the team had to discipline players. How many teams do you know of have six players thrown off the squad within the first half of season? Exactly. This is where Edsall and his staff are to blame. They need to bring in a better crop of people. Not just athletes, not just football players, but people. Yes, yes, yes...I know they are 18-22 years old and make mistakes. We all do. But we also know what things can jeopardize the things we do. What are the chances all six players are in college because they want to play football? Chances are good. How can I say that? well, would they be at UConn if they weren't playing football? I'll go out on a limb and say no.
If you are in college to play football, why do something that can take football away from you? This is no different than your run of the mill student cheating on a test. You know you aren't supposed to do it. You know that if you are caught you may get thrown out of school. At the very least, you'll fail the class.
It isn't like there have never been any problems involving college athletes at Storrs or elsewhere. The key here is to find the balance between talent and quality persons.
There are a few at UConn. Don't fool yourself.
If you ever get the chance to speak to Rhema Fuller, you'll understand within seconds why he is a team captain. There are few people in any walk of life who speak so clearly and thoughtfully. Fuller takes his time to make sure anyone who is listening understands EXACTLY what he thinks. He is highly intelligent, and it shows. He carries himself with dignity and shows everyone respect.
If more college football players were like Fuller, not only would the Huskies have no disciplinary concerns, but athletes would have a better name.