Is this true ? I know that coaches have some pull , and can designate a small number of select candidates for admission, but they still need to be 3Q and a nomination. This is probably another unwritten process , but I expect the Admissions Board grants the third Q (Admissions Board approval) based upon theory that the candidate's athletic skill and contribution to the Academy as a whole justifies admission ove someone that higher qualifications in other areas. However, I believe the recruited athlete still needs to have a nomination and Med/CFA quals.
USNA is subject to the same NCAA rules as other colleges , and BGO's are essentially instructed to keep out of the process, at least for recruits in the higher visibility sports. The key take away is that recruited athletes should talk to talk to the coaches, as each sport has someone on the coaching staff who is responsible for helping the Candidate navigate the Admissions process.