[writmeister]

Not to defend Smith (because I do not condone her conduct in any way), but Manhattanville College is NCAA Division III -- meaning no athletic scholarships.

I think Coach Auriemma summed it up correctly: when you are part of a team you surrender some of your individual rights in the name of the collective rights of the team.

[driftless]

Ditto. As individuals, these players are free to protest whatever. But if they are allowed to protest as members of an athletic team or some other private concern, then anyone could protest whatever they wished at their workplace or wherever in total disregard to their employers wishes.