Oberlin College's Football Team Faces Challenges Amid Student Indifference

Ava Harvey, a senior at Oberlin College, wrote an article for the Oberlin Review addressing the lack of support for the college's football team, the Yeomen, which had a record of 0–10 during the 2025 season. In her piece, titled "Put Your Mouth Where Your Money Is: Back Oberlin Football," Harvey argued that the student body is largely indifferent or hostile towards the sport, which she believes alienates athletes. Her article sparked discussions among students, leading to responses that criticized her views. Oberlin, a Division III school, does not offer athletic scholarships, and the football team struggles with limited resources and a small roster of 41 players. The college's athletic director acknowledged the challenges faced by the team, including roster size and injuries, and emphasized the importance of student discussions about athletics. The article highlights the cultural divide between athletes and non-athletes at Oberlin, where various subcultures coexist, and raises questions about the role of football in the college's identity.