“I do believe very much in the [Ivy League] approach,” said Wheaton. “Philosophically, it’s the right thing. It lets [players] do all of the other things that make Harvard special. If they’re not going to take advantage of their opportunities, they shouldn’t be here.”

One member of the team is playing for the varsity lacrosse team, while another is spending the semester in Italy.

“The spirit of the rule is good,” added Hodel. “They want student-athletes to be students as well as athletes and to be involved in other groups.”

However, despite its admirable objective, some players feel that the rule does not always accomplish its goal.

“It’s easier during the [regular] season, because it helps you organize and prioritize,” Hodel said. “[The rule] is almost like a negative. I see the reasoning behind it, but for a lot of us, we do all those things already.

“We’re used to having a busy schedule. It’s a good balance for the players.”

Hodel also commended Wheaton for his willingness to help players adjust their schedule so that they can participate in any class or activity that they want.

Next up for Harvard is a trip to Europe over the summer, in a large part thanks to the extensive fundraising efforts by the team. The Crimson will leave just after graduation and will travel to England, France and Italy, playing five games along the way.

—Staff writer Jonathan P. Hay can be reached at hay@fas.harvard.edu.