Despite the current sterotype that jocks are brainless idiots, it has been proven that most often really great athletes are also intellectuals. I find that most often people's disgust with athletes is due to their envy. (See also People who say they hate popularity contests, but bitch about their experience) Don't take out your percieved middle school and high school social oppression on other people.

The issue is that our society places emphasis on athletics over academics. This issue is important. While we need to encourage physical activity, we must also be sure to create an environment in which our jocks and homebodies alike strive to fulfill and expand their minds.