Keith Beckett is The College of Wooster’s new director of physical education, athletics, and recreation. Prior to his recent appointment, he served as director of aquatics and head swim coach for the past 19 years. As he makes the transition from coach to administrator, he offers his opinions and insights on a variety of athletic issues, particularly the balance between academics and athletics at the intercollegiate level.

Q. Why do there seem to be so many more problems in Division I athletic programs as opposed to Division III?

A. I think there are a couple of reasons for this, the most significant of which is pressure. Not only is there a great deal of pressure on coaches of revenue-producing sports to be successful, but there is also a lot of pressure on Division I athletes themselves. In high-profile sports like football and basketball, many athletes are chasing professional dreams. This pressure, most of which comes from fans and alumni, often forces coaches and athletes to step across the line and violate the rules. Even in the less-visible sports, there is pressure on coaches to win and on athletes to perform at a very high level. This is not to say that Division III athletes do not face pressure or that they are not competitive – they do and they are – but there are fewer temptations and a better sense of perspective and balance at this level.

Q. What can to be done to eliminate some of the problems facing major college athletic programs?

A. Unless you can eliminate the pressure on coaches to win and the opportunities for athletes to sign multi-million dollar contracts, it is unrealistic that you can put an end to these problems. What you can do is try to keep them in check, and I think the NCAA does a better job than people realize in the area of compliance and education. For example, the organization is very diligent in educating student-athletes about the dangers of performance-enhancing drugs and other substances. The NCAA is also very thorough in its efforts to maintain a level playing field. Although the organization is often criticized by administrators and media, its rules for compliance are quite detailed. Unfortunately, enforcement is another matter.

Q. What are some of the major differences between Division I and Division III?

A. One of the major differences between Division I and Division III, particularly in regard to scholarship athletes, is that in Division I there is a much greater time commitment for practice, conditioning, travel, and competition. Those students are expected to arrange their schedule around athletics. In Division III, there is a limit of 20 practice hours per week, and most programs don’t even use all that time. As a result, a much higher percentage of Division III athletes are able to complete their degree in four years. Also, Division III athletes are involved because of the pure love of the sport, whereas Division I athletes are motivated by the financial reward.

Q. How do schools like Wooster keep academics and athletics in proper perspective?

A. We make it clear to all prospective students that they should choose Wooster, first and foremost, for its educational opportunities, and that athletics, while important, should be a secondary consideration. Once they arrive on campus, we reinforce that philosophy by making sure they spend the necessary time on their studies. In swimming, for example, we had a "no-excuse needed policy" for students who had to miss practice for academic reasons. We didn’t make them feel bad about having to study for a test. If they needed time for their studies, they could take it with no questions asked. One might think that they might abuse such a privilege, but they didn’t because they were serious about their studies and their sport.

Q. What is the role of intercollegiate athletics at The College of Wooster?

A. Intercollegiate athletics, like other co-curricular activities, provide a variety of life skills. Student-athletes learn about such things as determination, work ethic, and overcoming adversity when they participate in intercollegiate athletics. Many employers are inclined to look favorably upon athletes because of their drive and competitive nature and because they were able to achieve at a high level despite the constraints on their time. Athletics are also important because of their tradition. They serve as a bridge builder with alumni and members of the community.

Q. What is your vision for athletics at Wooster in the next decade?

A. I’d like to see Wooster’s program continue to grow and prosper. I think it is important for our teams to have full rosters with motivated and excited student athletes. I would also like to see us continue to excel on three levels: conference, regional and national. In addition, I would like to see student-athletes continue to embrace a high level of academic achievement. I have been very impressed with the academic performance of our student-athletes, and would like to see that continue by re-instituting our "Succeeding as a Student-Athlete" program. Finally, I would like to see an even stronger connection with our alumni, the campus community, and the community at large. We have a great tradition and a lot of tremendous things to build on here.