And, I think I read somewhere that now they think that caffeine can actually enhance athletic performance, but I still don't think abusing it is any good.
yes, caffeine increases awareness - basically speeds up some body systems and puts the body into an increased state of readiness. this can have performance benefits...
but in order to be an athletic enhancement, you must not normally use it (like the daily coffee)... thus, caffeine taken every day is not an athletic enhancement since it disrupts other systems such as hydration and has almost no athletic benefits
i was a mega-caffeine and sugar user for quite some years, especillay in college - not from coffee, but i drank like 20+ 12.oz cokes per day... one in the morning, one during each class and one each hour i studied... now i drink juice, lemonade or water and i don't experience the highs and lows like i used to...