To the editor:

I find it poignant that the 1952 team had to be introduced unexpectedly on Feb. 17 because of fears that a single individual would get jeered. The fact that coach Dean Smith is considered an “enemy” by many Kansas University fans is gravely unpleasant, obviously stemming from coach Roy Williams’ decision that it was in his best interest and more importantly his family’s that he return to the University of North Carolina. Coach Williams has repeatedly stated that Smith had nothing to do with his final decision, and neither Smith nor Williams should be chastised for their actions and/or decisions.

KU fans are tremendously loyal and usually show their support in a classy manner. However, in this instance and in many others throughout the sports world, fans sometimes forget that real people are behind their teams and heroes. No matter how much a fan thinks they are a part of a team, they need to realize that when the individuals they cheer for make decisions that aren’t necessarily to their liking, they are doing so not out of malice, but usually quite to the contrary. They are making a decision in the best interest for them and their loved ones.

In sports, like any career, individuals can get carried away with their jobs and lose sight of the things that really matter. If someone we cheer for chooses to take a certain career path, we as fans need to be respectful of their decision, wish them well and cherish the time we got to spend with them.

Erick Axcell,

Lawrence