I think the key here was that the kid called up and said he wanted to play ball. he didn't call to strong arm the admission office, he called and essentially s

I think the key here was that the kid called up and said he wanted to play ball. he didn't call to strong arm the admission office, he called and essentially said "what do I need to do to be a stronger applicant next year?" That's just a winning attitude in general. It shows the guy's got a goal and is willing to do what it takes to make it happen.