University of Virginia Library

"Business Risk"

Although the planned
enlargement of Scott stadium
has been criticized as being
unfounded, he defended the
move as a "calculated business
risk" necessary to the success
of Virginia football.

While the projected seating
capacity of 43,000 is far above
this season's average game
attendance of 23,260, he
believed that such an
expansion of facilities would
be a boon to recruiting,
ultimately producing a winning
team capable of drawing the
crowds needed to fill the
stadium.

But the major condition
which must appear is what Bill
Gibson has called "an ACC
atmosphere." King mentioned
some trouble spots.

For instance, he contends
the University desperately
needs a marching band.
Whether due to tradition or
apathy, Virginia is the only
school in the ACC without
one.

Witness the effect the Pep
Band had on U-Hall
enthusiasm. Perhaps "76
trombones with 110 cornets
right behind" could pull off a
similar feat at Scott Stadium.

"We feel," Mr. Roberts
concluded, "that success is not
a simple thing, but it can be
attained with a cooperative
effort of the administration,
athletic department, student
body and friends of Virginia.

"Now is the time for
deeds–not words. If you
honestly want 'competitive
athletics' which will give the
University the balance between
academics and athletics, offer
to help."