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JUNE 18, 2001

Despite showing promise and having talent, Indian athletes are often passed over by schools and college recruiters for a number of reasons, including prejudice and lack of understanding of Native culture.

Some coaches say they worry about Indian students completing their schooling. A large number of Indian students, for whatever reason, drop out of school and don't meet academic requirements.

Others have prejudicial opinions about Indian students. Said Mick Durham, head basketball coach at Montana State: "To me, I just think they get the government checks, and they stay. I don't know. I guess it's the way they're raised."

Some students say their own culture pushes them to stay close to home and not seek the attention being an athlete can bring.

Native Americans account for four-tenths of a percent of scholarship athletes at the major college level.

Get the Story:
Off-Field Hurdles Stymie Indian Athletes (The New York Times 6/17)
Photo Gallery: Bias and Fears Keep Athletes on Reservation (The New York Times 6/17)
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