I haven't read the enitre converstaion so forgive me if I am being redundant.
The #1 purpose of athletics is to develop character and a work ethic. If you look at the stats, (no I don;t have then but I have heard them) those students that are active in athletics (FB/VB/XC then BB/WR then T&F/Baseball) get better grades than those that do not participate. I would rather have more well rounded kids than those that specialize.
Those special athltetes (Kleinsasser/Erstad) don;t come along every day. The more well rounded athlete you are the better off you (and your team) will be. Take a look at Dickinson Trinity's Basketball program. The Ernst, Smith, Glasser, Jaeger, etc. kids were obviously taught that being well rounded is better than being specialized. all great Football player or Track and Field Athletes. Looks like it turned otu pretty good for them "is it now 8 stright State Tourney Appearences".............and counting!!!
The problem is if you specialize as a bball player, you have to be so dedicated or you will be left beind. I have seen SO MANY kids say I am not playing football, I am a bball player. BBall season comes and they are weak, can't catch a ball, Can;t be physical inside, etc.
I will take a well rounded athlete over specialization ANY DAY!!!!!!!Sorry for the novel I just had to vent