Beloit College

In the midst of a swirling national conversation about the interplay of education, ethics, and economics in intercollegiate athletics, taking time to reflect on the history of the basketball program at Beloit College is particularly timely and important. The stories that connect generations of student-athletes (in the best sense), legendary coaches (in multiple dimensions), loyal fans (with more than a touch of creativity), and a college with a disproportionately impactful place in the history of higher education in America (even beyond the Beloit Plan) cannot be lost to history. Under Frank McClellan’s guidance, the college has the opportunity to tell the story of Beloit College basketball in a way that fires the imagination and rejuvenates the soul. And, that opportunity truly comes to life through the authentic first-hand contributions of players, coaches, faculty, staff, and others - people who have lived and loved the program over its glorious century (and more) of its existence. It will be of interest to those who appreciate great stories about great people in great settings. It cannot come at a more opportune time. The confluence of the opening of the Powerhouse, the most competitive recruiting environment in living memory, and the renaissance of the city of Beloit conspire to make Frank’s vision compelling on every level. It ought to be a wonderful example of a team effort in pursuit of a championship outcome.