Actually, I think there is a lot to be said for a school's fan base and how it can affect the kids. The bottom line is, these young men are, indeed, kids, and they don't need to be dragged through the mud because they might decide a different school is more suited to their particular situation. Although, it's difficult for me - and I'm sure all of you - to imagine such a situation.
I'm very proud of the way everyone conducts themselves here at IE, and the vibe seems to be very similar at other ND boards. We try to be respectful of the student athletes, whatever their decisions may be, and the occasional individuals who are not, are quickly yanked down by the community.
I think it's very fair to say that we are very supportive and extremely protective of the talented young athletes who honor all of us fans by choosing ND. Keith Marshall is right; we have LOTS of love for the kids who come to Notre Dame! One thing any kid who decides to play football for ND can put comfortably into his back pocket is the full support of a very large and enthusiastic fan base.
And simply by reading the posts around here, you find out that dedication to our student athletes remains very firmly intact LONG after their college football days are done.