Crimsondude: the way it was explained to me was that if they really want you, they will find a nom for you. The sup has limited noms to give out for athletes, etc. My son was in a non-revenue generating sport, and was told to try his best to get a nom. If he couldn't, they'd see what they could do. He had to send in proof he had tried. He received two, so it was a moot point. I have a friend whose son was a recruited basketball player. He did not even apply for a nom; it was found for him. If you want to go to a service academy, you should try to get your own nom.