Preferential Treatment

It often seems in life far too often there is preferential treatment or seperate set of existing "rules" (wink wink) given for athletes, celebrities and simply individuals of notoriety. Currently in the news is the debate on this very subject involving possible Heisman candidate Cam Newton. Yet, a closer look reveals this is nothing new to the college scene. We've seen example after example in the news over the years. Could this preferential treatment actually doing those athletes a disservice? Consider the percentage of student athletes who actually make it to the pros regardless of sports as well as the average length of a professional career. Are those players actually given the skills and knowledge from their collegiate studies to prepare them for life after sports or are they given the preferential treatment far too often?

From the mid 70s through 1986 SMU maintained a "slush fund" used for under the table payments thus ultimately receiving the school's death penalty. Former 2 Live Crew rapper Luther Campball was rather involved with his loved Miami FL Hurricanes apparently offering coin frequently for each TD, INT, sack, etc. In the early 90's Pat Dye resigned over offering improper benefits involving prized DB recruit Eric Ramsey. Nine Florida State University (aka Free Shoes University) players in 1993 violated NCAA rules by allowing agents to bankroll a shopping spree at a local Footlocker store. From 1994 to 1998 Clem Haskins had a manager for Minnesota's academic counseling office take care of over 400 pieces of coursework for players. In 2001 Kentucky coach Hal Mumme resigned amid apparent numerous NCAA violations including payments to recruits. Back in 2006 we saw Oklahoma QB Rhett Bomer dismissed for improper benefits. Recently we saw Reggie Bush give up the Heisman. Now in the news is the swirl of allegations involving Cam Newton.

When does this end? Or is this only the tip of the iceberg? Are we only seeing the ones that get caught? How frequent is this truly occurring in college sports? With as much coin that is involved in pro sports and kids chasing their dreams this likely will continue with college athletes receiving preferential treatment. Would love to hear your thoughts.