For some Yale coaches, the loss of Eli athletes — to pursue medical school, to sing, to join other campus groups — raises questions of obligation, stigma and recruiting priorities.
The number of matriculating athletes for each incoming freshman class will likely remain the same, but coaches, students and administrators all said the new policy — which dramatically reduces the required contribution for families making up to $200,000 a year — will open doors for athletes who may have discounted Yale as an option because of affordability.
Even if two new residential colleges increase the number of freshmen filing through Phelps Gate each August, the number making the early-morning trek to Payne Whitney Gymnasium will probably remain the same.
Imagine the joy a Yale coach feels upon finding a recruit who can perform both on the court and in the classroom. Now double it.
