This collection of essays challenges the accepted notion that sports necessarily promote character development, physical fitness, and positive educational and social values. Contributing authors are leading authorities, coaches, athletic directors, and varsity and professional players. The essays examine the true relationship of sports and schooling. There are 13 chapters in 4 parts. Part 1, "The Educational Benefits of Sport: Myth or Reality?" includes: (1) "Is Your Child Too Young for Youth Sports or Is Your Adult Too Old?" (Bob Bigelow); (2) "Do Sports Build Character?" (Sharon K. Stoll and Jennifer M. Beller); (3) "Role Model: A Critical Assessment of the Application of the Term to Athletes" (Todd W. Crosset); and (4) "College Athletics as Good Business?" (John R. Gerdy). Part 2, "The Preparation of Coaches and Administrators," includes: (5) "Who's Coaching the Coaches?" (Michael A. Clark) and (6) "The Education of Sports Administrators" (Andrew Kreutzer). Part 3, "Race and Gender in Sport," includes (7) "Race in Athletics: Integration or Isolation?" (Derrick Gragg); (8) "The Myth of Athletics and Educational Opportunity" (Darren Bilberry); and (9) "Women in Sports: Seeking Balance" (Darlene Bailey). Part 4, "Athletics and Education: A Good Investment?" includes: (10) "Athletics and the Higher Education Marketplace" (Cynthia M. Patterson); (11) "Want Value for Education Dollars? Try Music!" (John R. Gerdy); (12) "The Rise of American Sport and the Decline of American Culture" (Robert W. McCabe); and (13) "The Pedestals are Vacant" (Bill Curry). (SM)