Kid captains

By The Gazette Editorial Board

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Big-time college sports has become a big entertainment machine with big budgets. So much so, say critics, that the athletic departments at Ohio State, Alabama, Oklahoma and many other institutions wield too much power at their universities. The unfolding Penn State scandal may be the most troubling example yet.

Still, these high-profile athletic programs can and often do much good with their popularity. The University of Iowa's kid captain program is a worthy example.

The UI Children's Hospital launched this program in 2009 to celebrate children who are dealing with or have overcome adversities that would bring most adults to their knees. These kids thrill at meeting their heroes and being honored at midfield of Hawkeye football games. Their inspirational stories are highlighted throughout the season. In turn, they bring attention and support to the critical, hope-giving services provided at UI Children's Hospital, rated among the nation's best.

This year, the selection committee considered 222 nominations in choosing 13 kid captains. Tough task. No doubt all of these children are heroes any star athlete can admire.

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