But if I'm understanding you correctly, this implies that doing a good job and raising a safety concern are mutually exclusive towards getting a recommendation. I recognize the pressures that exist toward impressing the coach and getting a bump, but I also don't think it's fair to suggest he can't do a good job without keeping quiet in a situation like this. Most coaches appreciate the hard work and dedication of these kids' time, and while there are some real jerks (read expletives) out there, most are not so narrow-minded that they would purposely risk a kid's life if it were called to their attention that were the case.
I don't think the Notre Dame coaches put him up there, purposely, with utter disregard for his safety. I think they didn't thoroughly think through the fact he was going up there in horrid conditions. Because of the repetition involved with regard to practice, Sullivan was probably going about his business without much consultation to Kelly. Had he gone to Kelly and even expressed concern, do we think they would have made the kid go up there anyhow?
I'd like to think not. Of course, maybe I am hoping for the best.