College athletics are the backbone of most universities in the United States. College sports have the greatest influence on prospective students and overall campus performance. The purpose of this argument is to explain the influence of college sports on the college itself. This particular topic should be discussed and highlighted because not only does it provide a better understanding of college sports, but it also enlightens readers that college programs are not solely focused on academics. College athletics provide a major attraction to prospective students regarding matters of enrollment, major student choices and ultimately their careers, an opening for commercial use and receipt of charitable donations, scholarship opportunities for students, social enjoyment for students, as well as economic growth for the local economy surrounding the college. Adrian College is a great example of the powerful effect athletics can have on retention rates. In the early years of the university, it can be said that the campus was not much visible due to its small size, bear lands, and a low student population of 935 students (Sander 3). “For decades, the 40-acre meadow separating Adrian College from a state highway was an afterthought on the modest campus of low limestone buildings” (Sander 2). The college desperately needed physical changes to the campus, as well as increased enrollment. Soon enough, the college moved forward on this vision by making the school more athlete-friendly. "The newly developed fields – featuring an ice rink, football and baseball stadiums, a track and a dozen tennis courts – are the cornerstone of a plan to increase enrollment through intense sporting activities.... middle of paper ... ... Quick Review 73.2 (2007): 58-60. "Basketball in the ghetto: exploitation taken for opportunity." Education 70.1 (2004): 63-7. WebGayles, Joy, I Scream. Journal of Higher Education 80.3 (2009): 315-333. WebMattoon, Richard. “Can Higher Education Promote Economic Growth? . "Athletics Raises a College from the Ground Up." Chronicle of Higher Education 55.4 (2008): 1. WebWolverton, Brad "Participation in athletics prevents many players from choosing which major tournament they choose. wish." Chronicle of Higher Education 53.20 (2007): 36. WebWolverton, Brad. "Commercialization of college sports may have 'crossed the line,' report says. Chronicle of Higher Education 55.38 (2009) : 23. Web