I have a low opinion of the academic and sports establishment too, primarily because of its bias and fostering of leftist views (which are widespread, not just characteristic of a few). I don’t like blaming universities of tens of thousands of people, though, for crimes that most of them abhor, and for which they were not responsible.
As sports themselves, I like them. They’re fun. I was a good student and not a frat boy, but think there’s room at school for sports and academics too. Cheating can be a problem, but at their best sports teach discipline and fair play.
‘As sports themselves’ should be ‘As for sports themselves’.