To the Editor:
I took issue with points raised in Daniel Moraff's '14 column in Thursday's paper ("Hiking tuition and blowing money on sparkly things," Sept. 27). In the piece, Moraff decries the new Nelson Fitness Center as a "pile of unnecessary excess." He questions why the "swimmers, divers and water polo aficionados (couldn't) get together and make some kind of schedule." Clearly Moraff fails to recognize that the new pool replaced an undersized, temporary pool that those athletes had to deal with for four years because the previous pool was demolished due to structural failings. The "bubble," as it was called, only had one diving board and practice space for a single team at a time. It also was not large enough for any of the teams using it to hold home meets; many would practice and compete at area high schools. Would Moraff have had those athletes undergo four more years without a home game? Or perhaps have had them keep practicing until the roof caved in on them?
Moraff also refers to members of the water polo team as "water polo aficionados." They are Division I athletes and current Ivy League champions who can spend upwards of 20 hours a week in the pool. Not only is his label offensive, but it is also ignorant to put them in the league of hobbyists and fans.
Lastly, Moraff claims that all athletes have their laundry done for free. This is not the case. The University launders uniforms, and in some cases practice wear. That is to say, these clothes are mostly items that the school is loaning to the athletes. I still pay $1.50 per load just like everyone else. If you would like to join me, you can find an athlete doing his own laundry in the basement of Hope tonight.
Walker Mills '15
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