> No one is saying athletics have no place in university.

burgerbrain seems to be saying this, which is what I responded to.

> When those subjects which tie into academics better than athletics.

Tie in differently, not better. There are many ways to learn and many lessons to be learned. Drama, debate, music, newspaper, and sports, among others, are all different paths to learn those lessons.

I am not justifying the large amounts of money spent on sports programs. What I am saying is that sports do educate people and provide an important opportunity for students in many ways. Saying "nothing is learned while playing sports" is false.