Deflate Holt's salary

In light of the continuous reporting of economic woes, fraud, failures and the exhortations to do more with less, granting defensive coordinator and assistant Husky football coach Nick Holt a salary amounting to more than $2 million over three years seems particularly indifferent to the realities of our time ["UW football is 'a sleeping giant' and Holt plans to inject adrenaline," Steve Kelley, staff columnist, Jan. 7].

Coach Holt's remarks suggesting that he's in the business to "make a difference in these kid's lives" ring hollow. He said, "It's unfortunate that the really good professors don't get paid as much [as coaches to]."
He claimed "it's the world we live in" that's to blame and he "can't do anything about that." Actually, he can.

Does he really want to inspire and teach? If so, then demonstrate that a football program is but one part of a distinguished university. Our University of Washington is composed of great teachers, learning facilities and research.

Holt should dedicate a portion of his inflated salary to faculty incentives, student-learning stipends and improvements to the University's physical operations. Unlike the recently assembled reporters who, after listening to Holt, were described by Kelley as "ready to hit somebody," I'd like to see a leader like Holt stand at the center stage he enjoys and inspire us all to help somebody.

We think we can do something about the world we live in. Let's restore some balance to our priorities.

-- Tony Angell and Lee Rolfe, Seattle