[We invite all men in the University to submit communications on subjects of timely interest.]

To the Editors of the CRIMSON:

Because of the intense interest and hearty support which the undergraduate body have in past years given their football teams it is only fair that the sport should be considered partly theirs as well as the players, and their wishes taken into account. They wish to have a winning team, and are helping to effect this. However, they would do well to consider what is best for the teams which they help turn out, and I think that they should consider thoroughly the points brought out in the communication printed in the CRIMSON of November 27.

If football is to be played as a sport just for exercise it makes little difference what is done, but if it is a game in which a great part of the sport,--to Harvard men both players and supporters,--is a successful outcome and at least an even percentage of victories over powerful rivals, it must be one in which the efficiency of the players both individually and collectively is developed to the highest possible pitch.

One of the largest elements in turning out teams which can win an even share at least of the largest and most important games they play, is in the coaching of these teams; and it has been proved that it is as important to develop this along consistent lines as it is to develop the team. No team can hope to win which one week plays along one line and the next along another line of play. The coaching staff of this team feels the same influences over a somewhat longer period. It must develop by experience and by close touch with conditions, not for one year but for several. The coaching of a large team is far too intricate a matter for any one to master in one year. The coaches must have an intimate knowledge not from hearsay, but from personal experience, and must have the help of men who have had training along similar lines in order to effect their purpose. If the policy remains consistent and progressive along certain broad lines the old players can give the benefit of their experience along these same lines, and can step in and help when necessary.

This permanence of policy cannot be secured as long as the selection of the head coach rests in the hands of the captain alone, who may perhaps not have followed very closely the results of past years, and who is somewhat limited by the short time in which to decide and by his own acquaintance and personal knowledge during a short period of years. Mr. Nesmith suggests a possible means in his communication of November 27, and I think his suggestion should be considered by all who are interested in having winning teams. This permanent committee of five permanent football men and perhaps the captain, would be in a position to secure a permanent policy and men who could carry it out to the best advantage. P. E. DURVHSE