Title: The Resurgence of College Football Programs: A Strategic Move or Just a Fad? In recent years, we have witnessed an interesting trend in American colleges – the resurgence of college football programs after decades-long hiatuses. Roanoke College’s decision to bring back its varsity football team since 1942 is just one example among many others who are hoping that this move will boost enrollment, particularly for male students whose numbers have been dwindling in recent years. This trend can be traced back to the early 20th century when college sports gained popularity across America. Football was seen as a way to attract more students and create school spirit. However, during World War II, many colleges dropped their football programs due to resource constraints and focus on war efforts. Now, with changing demographics and increasing competition among educational institutions, some schools are reviving these programs in hopes of reversing declining enrollment rates. While research suggests that adding a football program may initially increase enrollment numbers, it does not guarantee long-term success. In fact, several studies have shown that after an initial spike, the impact on overall enrollments is minimal at best. Nevertheless, some college presidents remain optimistic about this strategy, citing its potential to attract male students who might otherwise choose not to attend college. The significance of this trend lies in how it reflects changing attitudes towards higher education and sports in America. It highlights the importance placed on school spirit and camaraderie as well as the role that athletics play in shaping a student’s experience at university. Moreover, it raises questions about whether investing resources into football programs is truly beneficial for colleges looking to improve their enrollment figures or if there are other strategies they should consider instead. In conclusion, while adding college football teams may seem like an attractive option for schools struggling with declining enrollments, its long-term effectiveness remains uncertain. As we continue to see more institutions revive their sports programs, it will be interesting to observe how this trend evolves and what impact it ultimately has on the landscape of American higher education.
Source: [Original Article](https://www.npr.org/2025/09/13/nx-s1-5537920/does-football-help-colleges-with-recruiting)
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