University of Virginia Library

REPORT OF ATHLETICS COMMITTEE

Mr. Carrington, Chairman, stated that Captain Pritchett had sent a questionnaire to all
former members of University of Virginia boxing teams. One of the questions asked read approximately
as follows: "Knowing what you now know about boxing, would you wish to participate in intercollegiate
boxing?" Every reply was in the affirmative. The Committee stated that it had weighed carefully
the evidence presented, both for and against boxing, and that it did not feel there was sufficient
evidence of harm to the individual participants to warrant the discontinuance of boxing at the
University.

The Committee unaminously recommended that intercollegiate boxing be continued, but that
every precaution be exercised to protect the participants.

Dr. Trout then pointed out that leading doctors in Virginia are opposed to intercollegiate
boxing. He stated that the parents of nine University of Virginia boxers had written him to ask
that he use his influence to persuade the Board to abolish boxing. Dr. Trout further stated that
most colleges and universities have abolished boxing, and that the University of Virginia is the only
college in the State which has continued it as an intercollegiate sport. Five past presidents of
the Medical Society of Virginia have stated to Dr. Trout that it is their opinion that boxing should
be abolished.

Mr. Black moved that further study be made of the matter by the Committee on Athletics,
and that particular attention be given to the reasons why so many colleges have abolished this sport.
The motion was passed.

There being no further business to come before the meeting, the same was adjourned after
a motion to that effect had been made, seconded, and carried.