A University of Kansas professor published a study in 1917 concerning the health challenges and personal benefits of playing college football. Eighty-five men who graduated in 1907 completed the survey, with forty indicating they had not sustained notable injuries. Forty-five said they had sprained ankles, broken noses, or similar injuries. All forty-five believed they had fully recovered.

The personal benefits they cited from their playing days were increased physical development, self-control, rapid judgment, wide acquaintanceship, determination, and courage.

The study author was the head of the Department of Physical Education and the inventor of basketball, Dr. James Naismith.

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