Nominating sources

Yes, you are both correct. Yes, there is a very small number that the superintendent has, but for normal discussion purposes, even athletes have to have nominations and they compete in the same way everyone else does.

Now, having said that, there are LOA's (Letters of assurance). Basically, this "ASSURES" an individual that if they get a nomination; pass the medical DODMRB; and are qualified, then they are "ASSURED" an appointment. LOA's normally go to individuals who are part of the "No Brainer Club". Individuals who are 4.0gpa in AP/IB; #1 ranking; Kicked the ACT/SAT to another planet; LOTS of leadership; LOTS of volunteer time; etc... Basically, an individual who pretty much is going to get an appointment no matter what category they fall into. The purpose of the LOA is just like "NORMAL SCHOOLS" to offer "Early Acceptance". This is a school's way of getting an applicant to commit and not considering another school. All schools do this. I.e. You can be early accepted to a university in September/October for the next year. Anyway; there are SOME Athletes that also receive LOA's. This year, because of the major cutbacks in appointments, only Athletes received LOA's, and even that number went down a LOT. But the reason I mention the LOA, is because you simply need a nomination. You can be the #10 person on your MOC list. you'll still get the appointment. Basically; if you aren't getting your MOC's slot, you WILL GET one from the national pool.

But LOA's are also a very small amount of appointments. So no, athletes don't have a special category that they compete from. They compete along with everyone else. Yes, there are a few; very few; that the coach can get them a nomination from the superintendent. But the individual still must be qualified, pass the DODMRB, meet minimum standards, etc... just like everyone else. Hope this explains a little. mike...
 
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