Dear Editor,

Since the days of Ancient Greece, a fascination has surrounded the legendary endurance of Phidipides, who ran 26.2 miles from Marathon to Athens to deliver a message of victory before falling over dead. In modern times, college athletes have sought out track and field and cross country as a means of finding personal triumph through feats of endurance. Unfortunately, despite the continued success and promising future of such athletes at WVU, the university’s athletic department has chosen to deliver a message of defeat and quick death to these athletes. I can only say that this decision sickens me.

The WVU men’s track and cross country programs provide the grandest stage in West Virginia for those looking to prove their mettle through running. Such athletes are not likely to find success on the gridiron, the hardwoods, or the diamond. In these arenas, the heroes are cut from the mold of Goliath. The determined runner, to the contrary, is built more like David.

The Goliaths of high schools and colleges across America are supported by legions of fans that fill stadiums and sports bars to watch them compete. The Davids, meanwhile, are left with rubber ovals, dirt trails, and a relatively small group of loyal supporters.

Nevertheless, their presence at the Division-I level means that thousands of skinny high school boys across the state of West Virginia have a standard of excellence to aim toward. They too could wear the gold and blue made famous by their Goliath brethren.

The existence of track and cross country also provides an inspiration to exercise for thousands of residents of a state plagued by obesity. Running, unlike football, can be a lifelong sport and glorifies good health rather than excess size and bulk.

Regardless of how much success the Goliaths of WVU sports have in the future, I will not be able to root for them without reservation until the men’s indoor track, outdoor track, and cross country programs are restored.

Sincerely,
J. Scott Biola
Fairmont Sr. HS Assistant Track Coach &
WVU Graduate Student
(304) 599-6687