A high-profile rape trial involving two former Vanderbilt University football players has put the spotlight back on the deep-rooted practice of using “hostesses” to help recruit prospective football players. Defense lawyers have asked several witnesses about the use of female hostesses for recruits and suggested that the woman who has accused the players of rape helped in recruiting players to the team. The first mention of the use of “pretty girls” to attract recruits appeared in court filings last year. Vanderbilt hasn’t confirmed whether such a program exists, saying that it doesn’t comment on issues related to ongoing legal matters.

January 27, 2015 ・ From Inside Higher Ed