Letters

S.L. Price's essay on Andre Agassi's final U.S. Open was terrific, and so was Agassi (SCORECARD, Sept. 11). After he lost, we prayed for rain every night so we could watch one of his reruns: against Marcos Baghdatis this year, James Blake last year or an earlier classic versus Pete Sampras. What a remarkable player, and what an extraordinary farewell.
Cormac Ryan, Plano, Texas

In Loco Parentis

Being a graduate of Clemson University has brought me pride on many occasions, but nothing compares to how proud I am that Ray Ray McElrathbey, who has taken over the care of his 11-year-old brother, Fahmarr, wears our orange and purple (SCORECARD, Sept. 11). I am delighted that the NCAA has seen fit to recognize Ray Ray's special circumstances so that the Clemson family can support him in his laudable effort.
Amanda Miller, Tampa

Cowboy Economics

My son and my money go to Oklahoma State, and I have found it to be a wonderful educational institution, filled with fantastic teachers, programs and students. But I, like Rick Reilly, have wondered, Why didn't T. Boone Pickens donate at least a small portion of his latest, $165 million gift to the things that really matter—academics, teachers, programs and buildings (LIFE OF REILLY, Sept. 11)?
Monte Gartner, Owasso, Okla.

If Oklahoma State football rises to prominence with Pickens's jump start, the school's alums will come out of the woodwork to fund the university. It may be backward, but that's America. Without Pickens, the status quo will continue, and those academic departments in the basement will have no chance.
Steve Riggs, Novi, Mich.

Doing the Right Thing

Your story on Braintree (Mass.) High's Amy Caldwell warmed my heart and then boiled my blood (PLAYERS HIGH SCHOOL, Sept. 11). She showed great character by staying with her high school soccer team instead of jumping—on one day's notice—to join the under-16 national team. But the national team demonstrated an unreasonableness typical of many children's athletic programs. Most parents can tell you how frustrating it is to have a child's games and practices scheduled at the last moment or changed with little notice. Coaches get away with disorganization because everyone is afraid to miss an opportunity. It is time we ask our leaders to act as Amy did: responsibly.
Steve Sickler, Coto de Caza, Calif.

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