i was actually thinking about this today. i wasn't a varsity athlete in colllege, but 2 of my room mates were. i don't think it plays much into the selection process, but i think having played a team sport at the college varsity level definitely has benefits for a Marine officer. as a Marine you are very much a part of a team with a common goal, you have a coach (CO) to lead and look up to. you have weaker players and stronger players, and if someone isn't pulling their weight, the whole team suffers. varsity atheletes know all about this and i think it is a benefit to have played sports as a Marine. am i worse off for not having played a varsity team sport? i don't think so. it all depends on the person, but i think having that experience can definitely be a plus.