CHARGES FOR ATHLETICS

A change in the policy of the H. A. A. regarding charges for the privileges of attendance at and participation in athletic contests has long been desirable. Perhaps the most welcome feature of the reformed system of fees, as announced in this morning's CRIMSON, is that it is evidence of an effort to reduce the cost of athletics for the individual.

Aware of the surplus accumulated in the past by the H. A. A. treasury, the average undergraduate has found no justification for the excessive outlays entailed by participation in sports supported by College facilities. Equally difficult to justify were the prices charged for admission to contests of Harvard interest.

While the new participation books do away with the irksomeness of having to pay a cash fee on each occasion of utilization of the privileges, further reductions in the fees themselves may be expected in the future. The only user who benefits considerably by the new policy is the one who participates in several sports. The new plan will not effect many men who are only occasional users of the athletic facilities. For them the cash payment method will remain the most advantageous. A progressive step has been taken away from the inconveniences of the discarded system. But the reduction in the cost of athletics to the individual is not beyond question.

The spectator book provides for lowered total price of admission and will be welcomed for that reason. Yet many justly expect still greater consideration in the matter of the cost of attending Harvard contests. The greater convenience of the new system is beyond doubt but its financial concessions are to be regarded only as a step towards a still more equitable arrangement.