Starting With The End In Mind: Coaches Must Define Their Legacy

By admin | Published: October 19, 2011

As a leadership scholar, I have read, recommended, and utilized many of the principles presented by the management guru, Stephen Covey. In his best-selling text, The 7 Habits Of Highly Effective People, Covey suggests that leaders should “Begin With The End In Mind” to successfully take control and plan future achievements. In the world of coaching, this mindset is most applicable to a life that rarely has a logical progression or typical day. As a coach, most of your work is done through people – your administrators, coaching staff, players, and financial supporters. Thus, it is no surprise that you often put the needs and desires of others in front of your own goals. Perhaps it is time to step back and consider the following two suggestions to create your legacy on your terms:

1. Performance – Few would disagree with the statement that coaches who win consistently have more leeway with administrators. Win that conference championship and the request for additional equipment or travel funds isn’t such a big deal. So the W’s do matter and in a recessionary economy there isn’t much wiggle room for excuses. Get your player to perform – Get the job done. However, for the coach who is not in their dream job just yet – continue to imagine and think about where you eventually want to call it quits. Do you want to be a big fish in a small pond? Are you still actively learning or are you relying on outdated materials and schemes? Do you take the time to make allies outside of athletics or are you waiting for non-athletic administrators or professors to knock on your door? Yes, you must win, but be sure to invite others to the celebration. It will be an awfully lonely retirement or send off if you’ve had a history of taking all the credit during the glory days. It’s been said that “no man is an island” and there are surely people working on your behalf each and every day without an applause or acknowledgement. In fact, when you are absent what they don’t say when questioned about your coaching and program operations can be more telling than what they do say.
2. Inspiration – Do you “walk the talk”? Do the young ladies under your leadership model your actions? Are they more inclined to string together words laced with profanity or positivity when facing a difficult challenge? When you leave the coaching profession will there be many former players or coaches that have a strong belief in your coaching style and character? Many coaches are often judged by their “coaching tree.” That is, players who spend considerable time under your direction who acknowledge that the decision to go into the coaching profession was primarily due to your influence and motivation. Inspirational coaches are often described as ones who have created a basketball family atmosphere. Players, managers, and former assistants come back to visit, call regularly, and offer financial and personal support. They confess their desire to send their own children and nieces to play for you in the future. For new coaches, this positive foundation takes time to build and lots of patience. Gain exposure and try to be seen by many. Public speaking engagements outside of the athletic world help to establish your brand in circles that will expand your network. Although your character will be tested and revealed early in your career, your ability to redefine and influence the previous leader’s impression on the program has to be strategically planned and executed. And don’t forget to be gentle with the coach whose shoes you are now being asked to wear and excel with on a greater level. Don’t be afraid to display the former coach’s trophies, photos or promotionals. Remember, one day you will be walking back into that office or arena as a former coach. You will hope that your legacy is still being recognized by the incumbent coach. In summary, being an effective inspirational leader requires more than a passion for the game and new disciplinary rules. And of course, Bible beating your faith into the hearts of your players may turn out to be more than just a Title VII Civil Rights violation.
Coaching would be so much easier if you had that crystal ball to see into the future. Fortunately, forecasting remains guesswork and you have the wonderful opportunity to design your plan. The clock has started and on first glance your unique chance may not appear to have many bright spots. The one person that you can count on is yourself though. You are a winner and winners care about their coaching legacy. However, this legacy development can’t wait for tomorrow. People watch and take notice each and every day. Take control and don’t let others define when and how you will separate from your coaching profession. Win games and inspire others to be better. Your invaluable voice has meaning and is needed in this ever-changing world of college sport.

Dr. Deborah Stroman is an enthusiastic educator and entrepreneur. She is a faculty member of the sport business administration specialization of the Department of Exercise and Sport Science at the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill. Additional responsibilities include academic advising and coordination of the undergraduate internship program for sport administration. As a business owner, Dr. Stroman offers distinctive consulting services for former athletes desiring a successful transition from their sport career. Her teaching focus is the theory and practical application of economics and finances, leadership, sport marketing, and sport administration. Her research interests are leadership and social issues of sport. As a former basketball player at the University of Virginia and graduate assistant coach for the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, she continues to stay active by playing basketball and golf, core training, and biking. Her other hobbies include reading, discussing politics and behavioral economics, and traveling. She can be reached at debby@dstroman.com or 919.843.0336.

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Super-Sizing College Sports: Who really stands to lose?

By admin | Published: May 5, 2011

After participating and researching college sport, I emphatically conclude that many
of our athlete-students in big-time NCAA Division I sports have become “super-
sized” with more practice time, film study, strength and conditioning sessions, and
mandatory study halls (focused on eligibility and not graduation) at the expense of
learning. In an effort to produce better athletes, coaches are now enlarging every
aspect of their athletic life. And sadly college women’s basketball players, in an
attempt to keep up with the imaginary Joneses, have joined in the madness and are
missing the opportunity to enjoy the richness of America’s institutions of higher
learning.

As recently reported in the Chronicle of Higher Education, scholars are seriously
questioning if today’s college students are really learning critical thinking, written
communication skills, and complex reasoning skills. Mercy. If the traditional student
is possibly missing the mission of the undergraduate experience, can you imagine
what is happening to our athlete-students? What about the at-risk athlete-students
who aren’t even prepared to compete in the college classroom yet can shoot and
rebound with exceptional skill? Who is consistently developing their holistic growth
outside of athletics? And of course, the jury is still out on the effects of technology on
their social skills and ability to work effectively in groups. Without detailing the vast
amount of troubling research on the Black (athlete) student experience (including
graduation rates) at predominately white institutions, one can only imagine the
challenges faced by this particular group of young people without direction and
mentoring from those outside of the athletic complex.

The rebuttals are easy to summarize. The grant-in-aid is a privilege. They don’t
have a lot of time to improve and prepare for competition, so you have to maximize
the moment. If the athlete-student can’t take the pressure, move to another NCAA
Division. And lastly, it’s not always this hectic; they have much more time during the
offseason. Timing is everything, you say? Who are you fooling? I find it appropriate
to quote Mr. Iverson in this matter: “We’re talking about practice, man. I mean,
how silly is that?” Women’s basketball players play all year round. They love the
game and that is expected. However, structured basketball play also takes place in
the off-season. Yes, the informal formal games, weight lifting and conditioning, and
shot work sessions do occur. And that’s called practice. The coach’s pressure to
participate in an off-season practice is much more strenuous than responding to a
begging teammate to meet at the gym for a pick-up game.

What’s missing? The coach’s same level of pressure and encouragement for players to attend guest lecturers and participate in labs that last more than one hour. Hearing once-in-a-lifetime world leaders make presentations and going off campus for field experiences is experiential education at its finest. Many athlete-students aren’t even aware of the career service office on their campus. Once reality is brought into view and they understand that their basketball skills won’t pay their bills nor do they have the academic grades or relationships to immediately attend graduate school, panic sets in. And we all know the dangers and increased odds for making poor choices when operating in a spirit of desperation. Surely during their first and second year of college, hearing from former students and successful professionals with words of encouragement would have inspired or helped them with their academic progress and career choices. By not stretching their vision, athlete-students miss invaluable opportunities to learn. The compelling comments and guidance offered by speakers visiting campuses more often than not trump textbooks and journal articles. And not to mention the opportunity to establish a relationship and mentor for life after sports.

As the commercialization of college sport debate rages across the country, I now
offer my supposition that the more we “do” for today’s athlete-students, the less
we gain in return. The controlling mindset firmly placed on this generation often
keeps them away from the true purpose of college. They have less time to bond with
non-athletes, build valuable relationships with professors and administrators, join
social and service organizations, study abroad, gain independence, and cultural
competence. Remember, most will graduate and “go pro in something other than
their sport.” This statement is even truer for women’s basketball as the typical
WNBA salary is approximately $42,000. (Money is much better overseas but the
risk-reward stakes also increase exponentially. Many players can’t even survive on
their college campus without handholding and structure and one expects them to
go to another country and grow up?) The current formula of “more control of their
schedules in the hope of more ‘Ws’” is just not working. Are today’s teams winning
more than in the past? I need and want to analyze the empirical data that supports
the hypothesis that more control and monitoring of today’s athlete-students results
in more success on and off the field. Studies have already concluded that long work
hours and limited sleep are detrimental to working professionals. However, the
pressure of the six-figure incomes and “keeping up with the imaginary Joneses”
mentality is sufficient justification for the coaches to live at the office 24/7 and
consequently, place incredible demands on their athlete-students. You do want to be
in the pros don’t you? Regretfully, I think we may be producing fewer self-sufficient
adults. (Maybe we should add to the college sport reform considerations a window
of five years to complete one’s degree? And this window should remain open for any
time period in the future.)

Nonetheless, this disappointing occurrence will not change my belief in the
wonders of the college sport tradition. As a product of the NCAA Division I athletic
experience, I will continue to promote participation and support for this unique
educational experience. However, I can’t stand on the sidelines while injustices and
missteps occur in this new peculiar institution. This educational experience is one
arena where the athlete-student can’t afford to lose.

Deborah Stroman, Ph.D.

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Be Careful What You Ask For: The Collateral Damage of Mirroring Big-Time Men’s Basketball

By admin | Published: May 5, 2011

Intercollegiate women’s basketball has come a long way, baby. We now have better
athletes, more coaching schemes and strategies, improved fitness regimens, high-
tech uniforms, spacious locker rooms, and better attendance. On the surface it
appears that the game has truly evolved to reflect the legislative purpose of Title
IX; there can be no sex discrimination in federally funded programs and activities.
That is, women should have the same opportunities as men. However, from a
critical analysis perspective many are now challenging the accuracy and intention
of institutional compliance with this important 1972 Amendment. Perhaps the
analysts should also take a closer look at how the women’s game is mirroring the
uglier side of big-time men’s sports. Quite possibly in our noble attempt to gain
equality, we have lost vision and perspective. Let’s consider the losses in our march
towards equality and progress for most big-time programs.

1. The loss of holistic coaching. The days of looking out for the future of the
(non-sport related) young baller with star potential is over. Instead of
placing significant effort on the academic curriculum and non-sport related
careers, today’s coach must keep with up with their peers by addressing
and promoting WNBA/European professional basketball opportunities and
connections. There is certainly nothing wrong with having a dream but to
not limit the time spent on the reality of that possibility and/or passing the
responsibility to career services offices is very dangerous. Girls now grow up
watching ESPN clips of their favorite male and female athletes and come to
campus with idealistic notions of their future. Coaches need to be reminded
of their responsibility as coach-educator. Teaching Xs and Os is one part
(albeit a big one) of the profession and we can’t afford to compartmentalize
duties like those working with young men. We just don’t have the resources
and media on our side. Everyone on the coaching staff has to understand
the importance of developing mind, body and spirit. Similar to the detailed
evaluation of their technical skills prior to the offering of the scholarship,
did you offer an assessment of their character in the preseason to develop a
plan of action? As you divvy up assistant coaching assignments (e.g., post vs.
guards vs. recruiting), did you consider who will be responsible for making
sure your players attend non-basketball related programs that will enhance
their speaking, writing, and networking skills? And certainly, you can’t leave
this valuable training to athletic department personnel. You are an educator
so make connection on campus and utilize all of the university resources.
Remember, after their basketball career these young ladies will go forth and
represent you. Be ever so mindful of the product you molded and presented
to the world.

2. The loss of intimacy. What?! Yes, with the accoutrements of Title IX we now have equality in facilities and equipment. Arenas that seat thousands, ticket takers (who remembers the days of fans just walking through the open doors?), quality concession booths, and parking garages. John Swofford, the ACC commissioner recently stated, “Let’s remember, money is not inherently bad. It’s how we utilize the monies that are there is critical.” With the increase in seating, there are now more pressures on you to fill the stands
and generate revenue. The marketing team is busy with football and men’s
basketball. Eight hundred fans are great in a small gym; however, in your
palace arena, your program support looks pathetic. Can’t fill the stands?
Start looking for a new job. Sadly, the hiring and firing factors now include
your ability to get and keep fans attention. They must come out to the arena
and be a paying customer. Thanks guys.

3. The loss of the caring Big Sister. For many veteran coaches, the senior
women’s administrator (SWA) was the former athletic director or a proven
former coach in the AIAW system. This friend not only knew and appreciated
your challenges, she also was your peer, listening ear, and advocated for
equity. Today many SWAs are more likely to hand you a manual or budget
to review or gain familiarity with – real soon. The SWA has one master –
the athletic director. The system can’t afford the warm and fuzzy leadership
style anymore. In addition, the SWA doesn’t earn nearly the same amount
of money as a head basketball coach. Regrettably, this fact can often lend
itself to a relationship rife with jealously, fear, insecurity, and lack of respect.
In the old days, money didn’t matter. There was one budget and there were
shared responsibilities. That is, everyone was coaching, teaching and being
an administrator. Now, the SWA is swamped with meetings, paperwork,
compliance interpretations, and staff management. There is little time to
give you a hug, write you a personal note, and check in on your children. The
SWA who is able to maintain this standard of care is wonderful, but do know
that she is also keeping a checklist of possible line items to cut from your
budget and a list of possible coaching successors of all non-revenue sport
programs.

4. The loss of control. Money attracts flies. Your star players are
commercialized and/or believe in their own hype. The NBA’s “One and
Done” option is not a current attraction of most young ladies so you have to
learn new motivational techniques and group dynamic strategies to manage
these personalities. The ESPNification of sport creates even more illogical
calculations of their own abilities as athletes. No longer do we just have
coaches, staff, and players in your purview. You can now check your email,
texts, and voice mails and find messages from or about agents, marketing and
financial advisors. There’s money to be made by securing a contract with the
player with star power and game. As you try to instill confidence and a killer
instinct, the player’s posse and wanna-be advisors encourage selfishness
and life after college considerations. “Make a statement while you can. Shoot
the J. You have to show the pros that you have game and belong!” And who can blame these innocent souls, when you have gone out and secured your
own agent? Even though it is common practice for a men’s basketball coach
to have an agent for negotiations and opportunities, many athletic directors
scowl when you bring along your agent for hiring and renegotiating your
coaching contract. Not fair, you say? Reality bites. A six-figure income in
women’s basketball is still a six-figure income in women’s basketball.
5. The loss of academic life. Men’s basketball is now a super-sized sport and
there are very similar patterns trending in the women’s game. That is, the
players don’t have time for anything but a sport-related life. Connecting with
non-athletes, studying abroad, attending guest lecturer presentations, and
networking with their peers and professors is an after thought. Attending
class, personal workout sessions, film work, practice, and mandatory study
hall fill up the day. Most players are too tired to focus in class and spend
much of their down time asleep. If you don’t recruit and sign a large number
of high-achieving students, don’t scratch your head questioning why your
APR scores are starting to plummet. The athletes have a low commitment
to studying and the demanding basketball life doesn’t afford them much
opportunity to make much improvement with their academics. (Thank
heavens there is graduate school whereby one can devote her mind and
effort towards learning.) And don’t think that administrators and faculty
don’t notice the ever-growing population of summer school athletes. Maybe
academics just seems to get in the way of the competition during the fall and
spring semesters.

So how do you define success for your program? Do you try to keep one eye
on the men’s team to make sure you aren’t forgotten and overlooked? What
do you evaluate at the end of each season? The number of wins? Playoff
appearances? Quality of the education received by your players? Graduation
rates? Commitment to integrity and compliance? Women’s basketball continues
to advance and thus, there is more support and scrutiny. Head coaches are being
asked to do more to respond to this increasing interest. Just be careful not to
get caught in the tailwinds of men’s basketball. It’s journey that may get you a
conclusion that works against you.

Deborah Stroman, Ph.D.

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Year-round Basketball: Hey, that’s not what I signed up for!

By admin | Published: November 24, 2010

The glamour and pay is just not enough any more. The inherent pressures of
coaching women’s basketball have taken its toll on both the male and female leaders of our wonderful game. Sadly, those that make the daily decisions of offensive and defensive tactics, practice times, travel schedules, playing time, and the all important recruiting strategy don’t have the courage to stand up in unison to protest this unhealthy and nonsensical work schedule. By working all year, nearly 24 hours a day and 7 days a week, women’s basketball coaches are killing themselves and the very profession they love.

So how did we get ourselves into this mess? The very factors that have driven
the “arms-race” in facilities on university campuses are found to be operative in this situation. First, the injection of the high stakes – the REAL Benjamins – into college sport. During the days when coaches earned $30,000 and had the privilege to teach Physical Education classes, the pressure to stay at the office until 10:00 p.m. was absurd. No one would dare imply that one was not putting enough time in the office when the salary was respectable and competitive in the market. Completing your paperwork, preparing your notes, and handling class rolls in the morning hours and then enthusiastically greeting your team in the afternoon for a two-hour practice was the norm. Meetings with strength and conditioning coaches, academic advisors, development staff, the marketing team, and local charity personnel were unheard of before the influx of big-money to sports programs. Today the six-figure coaching salary and endorsements draws attention and creates more daily to-do’s than once thought imaginable. In a strange way though, coaches often invent more work and responsibility to defend their own pay to the academic and business world.

Second, the lack of effective leadership training and self-analysis by coaches
has affected how programs are managed in big-time sports programs. In the coach’s mind, the spotlight is always on so an embarrassment mindset can develop when considering taking the necessary time to receive honest feedback on how they are treating themselves and their staff. How does the CEO continue to develop once they have scraped and clawed to reach the top of the pyramid? Who do they listen to now when they need that “tough love” and an opposing viewpoint that will give them the full perspective of an issue? Leaders know and appreciate the importance of being challenged and questioned. Loyalty increases when staff knows that trust means an “open-door” policy and their comments won’t fall on deaf ears. Unfortunately, the long hours and lack of a listening ear makes many assistant coaches question their role in the never-ceasing intense work place or plain ol’ vocation madness.

Regardless of the request, how can one build their spiritual walk if the head
coach repeatedly decides to have practice during church service? Who is going to tell coach that many of the coaching meetings are unnecessary or lack a business-like focus? And don’t even think to bring up a vacation break. Traveling to play in the Junkanoo Jam or at an out-of-state warm weather location is no vacation. One can dress up the environment with sunny skies and white sand but work is still work regardless of the setting. The mind can never take a rest. Assistant coaches with big dreams of going to the next level often times lose their desire to advance after understanding the head coach’s schedule and lack of real commitment to family and personal life. The coach’s family comes to understand that coaching can be an ugly lifestyle dressed up with a bright ribbon. Truly the basketball team is not only the spouse but also the mistress. And we all know that money has never bought happiness. Right?

Third, the need to find that one “Final Four guarantee” player has created
illogical demands to recruit, recruit, and recruit some more 365/24/7. Smart phones are always on and the “I’m sorry. Let me take this call – it’s a recruit” apologetic declaration is all too familiar to a family member or friend of a coach on the other line. The off-season is now another in-season. And to compound the bizarre behavior of non-stop work is that the playing season is the only time that the enrolled student-athlete can spend some semblance of quality time with their head coach on a consistent basis. The players have come to understand that once they have signed the national letter-of-intent that they are in the stew and it’s now time for the coaching staff to go get more vegetables and quite possibly, the beef. The pot is on the stove and it is someone else’s responsibility to watch the entire kitchen. Who is that person? Outside of the playing season’s game preparation that the coaches continue to manage, all too often it is those other key athletic department support staff members, team managers, and office assistants who babysit, teach character development, provide academic advising, and guidance on being a college
student. How sad. The head coach who once survived the same college life balance issues that the student-athlete is now navigating is often gone or unavailable. This quandary results in the fact that those key life skills are rarely taught or shared with the student-athlete. Too often the coach is out of town or the student-athlete needs to set an appointment to get attention. In addition, the one-year renewable scholarship has even made it more attractive to recruit over players to improve the roster. Never mind the possibility of destroying team chemistry or the initial commitment made to the student-athlete and parents. It’s a business and the coach accepts the necessity to keep retooling or possibly falling out of the limelight of the top recruits each year.

Fourth, many coaches work mind-bobbling hours because they are just too
afraid to take their foot off the pedal. The thought of losing out to the competition because they took a break is blasphemy. How can a coach not show up at the Nike camp or the high school playoffs? What if my competitor is seen at the game and I am not? Surely, the student athlete will think less of me and even cancel their official visit to campus if I don’t travel across the country to see this one game. (Despite the fact that I have been recruiting the student for the past two years, have met the parents, and know the AAU and high school coaches.) And to even ensure that the other program doesn’t steal my player, at the last minute I am even going to require my assistant coach to change their personal commitments to go see this prize recruit. C’mon you know image is everything!

So what’s the mental and physical damage of the demands of this year-
round coaching profession? Are the highs outweighing those valley moments? For many coaches the pressure-cooker atmosphere can be defended and to some extent applauded by those who have found their lives defined by the whims of 17-22 year old young women. The effect of the increase in program funds and anxiety of recruiting comes with the job. The joy of waking every morning to the management of a women’s basketball sport program is fun, therapeutic, and a most welcome challenge. Conversely, for many other coaches the demands and non-stop work has  made them into difficult and unlikable personalities. Athletic staff actually don’t enjoy being around them for any significant period of time. The head coaching position necessitates working with and through associates, but most people would prefer to avoid the head coach. Sleep deprivation, improper eating, nonexistent workout schedules, and memory loss can be the manifestation of such an unhealthy work schedule. Happily, the business of women’s basketball continues to grow. It will take mature and courageous coaches to step up and command attention to this toxic behavior though. All coaches deserve a balanced life and the ability to step away for an extended period of time from the game. Perspective is often found in peace and quiet. Student-athletes and fans want coaches to be at their best and not running on fumes. Let’ s bring sanity back to women’s basketball. So coaches – how about setting yourself free!

Dr. Deborah Stroman is an enthusiastic educator and entrepreneur. She is a faculty member of the sport business administration specialization of the Department of Exercise and Sport Science at the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill. Additional responsibilities include academic advising and coordination of the undergraduate internship program for sport administration. As a business owner, Dr. Stroman offers distinctive consulting services for former athletes desiring a successful transition from their sport career. Her teaching focus is the theory and practical application of economics and finances, leadership, sport marketing, and sport administration. Her research interests are leadership and social issues of sport. As a former basketball player at the University of Virginia and graduate assistant coach for the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, she continues to stay active by playing basketball and golf, core training, and biking. Her other hobbies include reading, discussing politics and behavioral economics, and traveling. She can be reached by email or at 919.843.0336.

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Life After Sport: Whose Responsibility Is It Anyway?

By admin | Published: September 21, 2010

This article is written for the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association website and newsletter. Founded in 1981, the mission of the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association is to promote women’s basketball by unifying coaches at all levels to develop a reputable identity for the sport of women’s basketball and to foster and promote the development of the game in all of its aspects as a sport for women and girls.

Coaches are under tremendous pressure to win games, manage staffs, participate in direct or indirect fundraising, teach X & Os, ommunicate effectively with the athletic administration and parents, recruit and retain players, ensure the safety of their student-athletes, and be a positive representative of the university. Whew! Yet many would suggest that another important responsibility is to provide proper short and long-term planning for their players. As the headlines continue to lead with horror stories of male football and basketball students receiving suspensions for various rules violations, one begins to ponder the role of the coach in the education of the player off the court. How much attention, care, and planning is actually given to the reality of life after graduation for student-athletes? Seemingly as the chief guidance counselor for the student-athlete, has the coach come to blindly expect that other university units such as academic advising, student affairs or career services will adequately prepare the young person for a successful transition to the real world? Do these service-minded and well-intentioned individuals even have a chance to impart critical leadership and social skills to students who have been coddled and kept guarded by coaches and the majority of their time on campus?

Some would argue that the duties of a coach cease at the end of practice and games. That is, the hiring of the necessary support staff to complement the coach’s obligation to further develop the athletic skill set is the job of the athletic director. A successful athletic program is also one that prepares its student-athletes for their next job – the professional ranks of basketball, graduate school, mployment or a combination of such. The coach focuses on basketball at the next level (or the completion of a fulfilling college career) while others are purposed with a paycheck, title, and instruction to direct their lives emotionally, socially, and academically. In an often competitive work world within athletic departments, many coaches don’t even want to “step out of bounds” by attempting to do someone else’s job that they aren’t professionally trained to do – let alone find the necessary time and energy to do so. The entire village admitted the student to the university and now it takes that same village to develop her into a confident, kind, and responsible adult. A coach can only make suggestions and recommendations to others to do more for their particular students who are deemed poor communicators and questionable characters.

And then there are those who even doubt the need for this discussion and concern. Women’s basketball players are generally respectful and polite. They are not mirroring the clowns on ESPN SportsCenter or their homeboys from back in the day. Let’s not keep our heads in the sand though. The landscape of college women’s basketball has changed and the fear of renegade athletes is real and growing. Advances in technology are a blessing and a burden to our game. We can now all watch the WNBA and NCAA games on our 55” high-definition flat screens, BlackBerrys, and iPads in the comfort of our homes. The dazzle, sparkle, and media blitz is creating more fans and sponsorship dollars. However, through that lens it has also stimulated imaginations to create a larger than life image of what women’s college and professional women’s basketball is all about. We don’t have multi-million dollar contracts and private airplanes. This wonderful medium is spurning a new attitude in our athletes – the “what’s in it for me?” perspective. Without proper insight and information, some players are truly being brainwashed such that many athletes now show up on campus with an unrealistic expectation of the “good life” for a college athlete. You just can’t impress her anymore. Travel? She’s already been across the country a few times and possibly overseas with her AAU team. New shoes? She has a closet full of the hottest sneakers with the latest styles and colors to match her hundreds of shirts and shorts. You did make the commitment to her parents to take care of her and help her grow into a mature young woman though. Nevertheless, she’s here now on your campus – a sheltered, often-spoiled student-athlete.

Here’s the storyline: On the court she is often difficult to manage yet she is your go-to-option: fierce, aggressive and ready for action. You love her fire and determination. With the best intention of helping her survive, you pick her course schedule, tell her when to eat, to do laundry, to work out, and even the ideal time and place to get her hair done. She admires your trophies, championship banners, plush office, beautiful home, and car. She looks up to you. Her teammates and other coaches have mentioned to you how she is often the source of team problems. She wants playing time and her goal is to play professional basketball or “make a lot of money.” She will be very careful to reveal that other puzzling side of her personality in the gym or locker room. Fast forward. The whistle blows and basketball is over. The punch line: You have now turned loose to the classroom, to the rest of campus, and to society the athlete who is self-centered and often unapproachable. She enters the real world with misguided expectations from others who don’t care or are not aware of her status and role as a baller. Does anyone care? Who really is responsible?

Coaches can and should accept more responsibility of student-athlete development outside of the basketball court. As the primary adult caregiver on campus for them, coaches can demand communication and character development education for their student-athletes. Obviously student-athletes have responsibility but coaches can implement and require participation in leadership programs that foster real independence and critical thinking exercises. Don’t just send your student-athletes off to cookie-cutter athletic department offerings that supposedly instill and promote leadership skills. Test the application of those skills. Tear down those walls that often keep student-athletes locked in the world of athletics. Challenge your student-athletes to develop meaningful relationships with professors, administrators, and community leaders. Get them active outside of the arena and in the community on their own. Student-athletes can do better if we expect more. The hand holding must end. Coaches should consider their ideal student-athlete and their worst problem case and ask themselves, what is the difference in their ability to be successful and productive outside of basketball? What did I do or fail to do to make a difference in their non-basketball development? Could I have done more to affect a more positive outcome? Am I responsible? This reflection is relevant and necessary as the game we love continues to gain popularity and influence. Our young people and those of us watching and cheering on the sidelines are counting on you.

Dr. Deborah Stroman is an enthusiastic educator and entrepreneur. She is a faculty member of the sport business administration specialization of the Department of Exercise and Sport Science at the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill. Additional responsibilities include academic advising and coordination of the undergraduate internship program for sport administration. As a business owner, Dr. Stroman offers distinctive consulting services for former athletes desiring a successful transition from their sport career.
Her teaching focus is the theory and practical application of economics and finances, leadership, sport marketing, and sport administration. Her research interests are leadership and social issues of sport. As a former basketball player at the University of Virginia and graduate assistant coach for the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, she continues to stay active by playing basketball and golf, core training, and biking. Her other hobbies include reading, discussing politics and behavioral economics, and traveling. She can be reached at dstro@unc.edu or 919.843.0336.

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And The Point Of It All…

By admin | Published: July 14, 2010

I am reminded of Anthony Hamilton’s soulful ballad titled, “And The Point of It All,” when I think of the recent brouhaha surrounding LeBron James’ free agency circus. Hamilton artfully croons his message of love to his babe regardless of the dark days of time spent away from one another or major hurdles that may come their way. This expression of love in a direct, quick, and easy way seems light years away from the drama surrounding James’ announcement to sign his next NBA contract with the Miami Heat. The point of it all appears to be that a Black man’s decision to exercise his freedom within a capitalistic society and commercialized sport business can lead to unnecessary mudslinging and hostility.

The points:

1. The economic engine of America is capitalism. This system is the framework in which individuals can dream, plan, and hopefully execute their strategy to achieve financial success. The profit that one optimistically makes can be reinvested in the venture or given away as a charitable act to serve those in need or less fortunate. Many argue that this system is what makes the USA great. Others deem the system to be a mere tool for those in power to keep the power and continue the “have versus have-not” politic of control and influence. Regardless of one’s opinion, one should not confuse Dan Gilbert’s ranting about LeBron’s departure as anything but a man’s anger in losing his wallet. It is very disturbing to see the owner of the Cleveland Cavaliers show such a childish attitude regarding a man who earned him and the city of Cleveland money, recognition, and respect. His idiotic comments about LeBron’s alleged betrayal and lack of fortitude only reflect how his own self-interest had become bigger than LeBron’s quest for independence and victory. Shame on you Dan!

2. Free agency in professional sports runs on the economic principle of
efficiency. In the economic system, the owners seek to get the most out of limited resources. There is a finite number of megastar basketball players. According to Dr. Patrick Rishe, an economics professor at Webster University, the Cavaliers franchise is at least $60 million more valuable with King James ruling their court…and more likely $100 million more valuable. (This study is based on a review of attendance and fan cost indices for the Cleveland Cavaliers in both the 7 years pre-LeBron and 7 years with LeBron, as well as a review of recent NBA ‘revenue-to-franchise value’ ratios and Consumer Price Index data.) And of course, with the addition of the calculation of sponsorship, media, and branding revenues of The Witness certainly laid the foundation for a heated battle for someone who could affect this efficiency model. Dan Gilbert and other owners must identify tradeoffs in the context of constraints. Seven years ago LeBron was the draft pick that turned this seemingly cursed franchise into one of the most profitable professional basketball franchises. In 2005 Gilbert purchased the team for $375 million hoping that his key star player would continue to stimulate interest, wins, and most importantly profit for himself. LeBron clearly interrupted his plans of efficiency and profit-maximization. Instead of betting the entire hand on one player’s desire to stay and play at home, Gilbert and company should have worked smarter over the years to provide LeBron with a real point guard to reduce the pressure on this young superstar. Gilbert simply placed his chip on a big victory in free agency and lost.

3. Black men are often times attacked when they seek to control their own destiny. When Curt Flood, the Black all-star baseball player who paved the way for this current free agency opportunity, challenged Major League Baseball in 1970 he could not have imagined that a decision to choose his own destiny would shake the foundation of professional sports in America. At the time, the reserve clause was that part of the standard player’s contract which bound the player, one year at a time, in perpetuity to the club owning his contract. Flood had no interest in moving to Philadelphia, a city he had always viewed as racist, but more importantly, he objected to being treated as a piece of property and to the restriction of freedom embedded in the reserve clause. His courage to stand up to owners and the system eventually cost him his career but opened the minds for future players to legally confront the player restriction regulation and win. Now, let’s fast forward to the NBA off-season and the LeBron saga. LeBron was born and raised in Cleveland. He chose to stay at home for his first job and hired his friends to help him maneuver the manipulations of mega-stardom. He worked hard to bring prominence to a basketball franchise that more years than not, struggled in attendance, profitability, and victories. LeBron turned the Cleveland mystique around and made it cool to wear the # 23 again, headbands, and the ever-changing franchise colors of wine, gold and blue. His dunks opened up SportsCenter shows, his charming smile graced numerous magazine covers, and made the country giddy over this young prodigy. His life off the court was scandal-free and he kindly represented the USA in the 2004 and 2008 Olympics. However, his leadership, the playoff run and record-setting wins for the Cavs didn’t matter to many of the self-absorbed Cleveland fans and in particular, their owner. They wanted more of LeBron – another contract, continued pressure of being the savior, and control of James’ own desires to explore new territory and dreams. Does this story sound familiar? To many Blacks – an emphatic yes! When White men control the system or plantation and the slave wants his freedom or “40 acres and a mule,” there is little, if any, understanding of the necessity to leave the seemingly great environment. How dare you LeBron? Cleveland gave you everything you could possible want or need!

4. The commercialization of sport can generate ugly consequences. However, a good outcome can be made with careful planning. With all the various sport media and in particular, ESPN distribution outlets in print, video, online, and television serving up 24/7 reports on our athletes, can one even wonder why LeBron would choose NOT to accept the idea of creating a show about his free agency decision? The one-hour special was only sad in that 7% of the nation tuned in for this made-for-television spectacle. We have created a monster in many of our entertainment and sport stars and then we are surprised when they use the system to feed their own interests. Or more sadly, we can’t even accept when the monster uses the opportunity for good. Nielsen reported that the show peaked with a 9.6 rating from 9:15-9:30 p.m. when the program shifted to when LeBron officially made the announcement. That rating marked the highest non-NFL rating on ESPN this year – including their exclusive apology interview with Tiger Woods in March and A-Rod’s admission of guilt of using performance-enhancing drugs interview in February 2009. LeBron and company simply leveraged the mechanisms of capitalism to partner with ESPN to provide a platform to give back to those less fortunate. ESPN created the storyline of LeBron free agency and then offered up the final cha-ching to crystallize the drama. Sounds like an Emmy for original score, casting and production to me! The station donated the block of time and LeBron negotiated the ad revenue for the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. In the end, the ESPN decision show generated $6 million in ad revenue and the eight sponsors featured in the show received $2.9 million in equivalent ad time. Sounds like a win-win in the midst of the madness. Many have enjoyed watching LeBron in Cleveland over the past seven years.

Although I am not a LeBron fan, I can include myself in that group of those cheering for a franchise that took on the burden of the entire city. As much I hoped that he would stay at home to build on his Cavalier legacy, his decision to go play for the Miami Heat and to “grow up and away” from his childhood home is admirable. Clearly, there was a struggle to find the right solution to make everyone happy. He soon came to realize that his answer must and could only make sense for himself. He owes no one, especially Cleveland, more time, commitment or energy. His only mistake, if there were one, was in the delivery of the decision. Perhaps he should have worked to provide more advanced notice to Gilbert. However, we don’t know the behind-the-scenes dynamics, which may have prevented such action. If Gilbert’s vitriolic comments are any indication of the misguided passion behind this owner’s sentiments towards LeBron, perhaps we received the best delivery of the news that he could offer at such a sensitive time. Life moves on and we can now happily get back to a much more broad coverage of sports. Quite simply, LeBron alone has to live with his free agency decision and the increased expectations focused in South Beach. And that is the final point of it all.

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The Two Worlds of Tiger Collide: Do You Believe in Second Chances?

By admin | Published: February 23, 2010

On this past Friday at 11:00 a.m. EST most of America stood still. Not for health care reform, terrorist declarations or even the death of a dignitary. Tiger Woods spoke directly to us as he took the microphone for the first time since his car accident on Thanksgiving and we listened. Although most Americans appear to have heard an authentic man at his lowest point requesting our help, there are some who still question the motives and heart of the world’s #1 golfer. As someone who attempts to put my faith into action, I have ceased the Tiger analysis and will do this one thing that the man who has changed the face of golf (and the sport industry) asked – to try to believe in him again.

Jonathan Bernstein, a respected public relations expert, states that “during a crisis, effective spokespersons must, primarily through their non-verbal cues, leave their audiences with the impression that they are: confident, competent, and compassionate. Leaving the commentary of the facial and body analysis experts aside, Tiger’s written words were heartfelt and delivered with sincerity. Can you truly imagine having committed the most sex-related “irresponsible and selfish behavior” against someone you love and then having to face your closest friends and colleagues (and the world) to ask for their forgiveness? Tiger just can’t win in this regard. If he appears confident and secure in his message by reading his statement, then one can interpret him as being arrogant and cocky. If he expresses a clear understanding of his wrongdoings and their implications, then he can be viewed as a proud man, fearless of advice and guidance. Lastly, the compassion-less Tiger who won’t shed a tear or breakdown is only putting on a show to impress his fans and sponsors. The apology becomes a cloak for his need to keep million dollar contracts intact. Why didn’t you go impromptu with just bullet points? Why didn’t you cry?

So why even bother at all Tiger? You don’t need any more money or applause. You can go chase majors without standing in front of a podium knowing very well that the media vultures want to make your life theirs. In fact, you would play the game of your youth for free without a foursome. You have close friends and family who will stand by your side regardless of your golf acumen and proficiency. Why come before the world to risk more attacks, innuendos, and gossip? Tiger took the risk because he can no longer separate Tiger the man from Tiger the brand.

Tiger the man, not unlike most high-powered celebrities, has tried to keep his personal life away from the public persona. In his press conference he stated that he “always tried to be a private person.” He loves to practice and play golf. He has youthful interests and loves working with children. He only trusts a small circle of friends. Tiger the brand invaded Tiger the man’s controlling and secretive lifestyle though. This boldness and egotism designed by external forces for life outside of the greens finally caught up with him and he had no choice but to face his wife and explain the trail of transgressions. Tiger the brand was probably not created by this private Tiger. Tiger the man spent too many hours on the golf course mastering his swing to invent this fun-loving, gregarious, fashion-conscious, and hot ladies’ man. His father, the media, and the sponsors needed a role model and idol – someone that could change America.

Tiger the brand was developed with much thought in corporate laboratories to inspire all people, regardless of race, religion, age or gender to get fit, play golf, and indulge in the numerous product offerings affiliated with Tiger. Tiger the brand is money. This brand was designed and manufactured to help sport economics by creating jobs in sport journalism, television, golf equipment, golf apparel, and business services. The more we see of Tiger the brand, the more dollars pass through the economy. Tiger the brand became such a major asset to the sport world that this talent became influential in politics and money matters. (Note: Pres. Obama’s request for his appearance while campaigning and at the Inauguration. Also, the Nielson ratings drop over 50% when Tiger does not play in a televised tournament.) When the tabloids announced the brewing scandal and further scrutiny proved true, Tiger the man met Tiger the brand. His personal pain became ours.

Many fans are disappointed by Tiger’s humanness. This sentiment makes sense and is very valid. Tiger the brand invaded our homes as he pitched products that we believe represent wholesomeness, integrity, good health, and quality. We didn’t see Tiger the man every day at the golf course. We saw Tiger the brand, the idol. We purchased Tiger the brand golf clubs, watches, hats, shirts, and even drank his sport drink. However, when the idol fell, we collectively gasped and castigated Tiger the man. No longer did we see a man that had lost his father and quite possibly his way. We didn’t ask him how his religion influenced his golf play. Truth be told, we didn’t notice or really care that he had actually lost his faith and was now serving false gods. We didn’t ask Tiger the man about his associates and in particular, two seemingly close relationships with older former NBA stars that have a public track record of womanizing. We didn’t ask Tiger about the pressures that all young couples experience coupled with his demanding profession. And most importantly, we didn’t care how an only child born of a mixed marriage was processing race in America and its effects on his billion-dollar empire. We didn’t ask because Tiger the brand was impenetrable and in control. The two worlds have now collided and Tiger the man has asked us to be patient and wait for Tiger the brand to make a comeback.

We need no more explanations and apologies. Tiger the man has told us that he has let us down. He stated that he is sorry. He says he knows that he needs help. His strength of recovery lies in his family, golf clubs, and will. His earnest plea is for his fans, and his fans alone, to “find room in your hearts to one day believe in me again.” For all that we have learned over the nearly past three months, surely we can take a break from the Tiger news and let him heal. Let’s be real Americans and support the underdog. We can cheer on Tiger the man, his marriage, and his revival. His track record to overcome and beat the odds is very favorable. This situation is new territory for Tiger the man, but I will not count him out. The PGA desperately needs this golf prodigy to pay bills and keep our attention, and we need his smile and impact. Yes, much will change when Tiger the brand comes back to the golf world. Sure, he will win majors and secure sponsorships. However, the one welcome change will be the transparent golf star. This time around, Tiger the man will know, manage, and define Tiger the brand.

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Grading President Obama

By admin | Published: December 17, 2009

In terms of President Obama’s ability to articulate and take action on his vision for America in one, year, I would issue a grade of B+. He has motivated millions across the globe to be more charitable, considerate, and reflective on our personal and national interests. Contrastingly, I would personally give him a grade of a C to mark the more free-thinking, activist, and liberal political stance that I thought and hoped he would bring to the White House. Mr. Obama is clearly a centrist and that is a dangerous position to have if his desire is to serve an additional four years. While his pit crew (the people that elected him) are screaming “Open it up! We’ve got your back,” he’s driving his Ferrari 35 mph. Is it a lack of political skill or political will for this seemingly gentle posture? Time will definitely tell. Nonetheless, many Americans remain hopeful for real change with his ideological path of appeasement and consensus-building.

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Tiger Acting Like a Black Athlete Now?

By admin | Published: December 11, 2009

Tiger Woods has a problem and now so do I. I was naïve to think that I could survive this holiday season of Tigervision with its seemingly minute-by-minute reports of his self-described transgressions. Every media outlet needs a story to remain viable in this world of at-your-touch news and Tiger’s naughtiness provides the perfect scoop. This tale probably has no beginning and quite possibly no end. However, my nerves became frayed and I saw the immediate end of my sideline observer role when I changed the channel and popped in on the Joy Behar Show. As they discussed the latest Tiger escapade, Ms. Behar cleverly asked for insight on how the African-American community might possibly feel about his sins. Her query was directed to a female African-American guest, Karith Foster, who calmly stated that Tiger was finally acting like a black athlete. Pump your brakes!

Although Ms. Foster’s listed occupation is comedian, she made her bold statement sans smile or giggle. She was very serious and obviously hurt by his choice of women in this scandal. She went on to describe how the black athlete needs a white woman – a trophy wife – to be successful. Ms. Foster’s understanding of the black male athlete is a stereotype and confusion-filled. Shame on her and the media for supporting the racist mindset that promulgates a representation of the black male athlete as a superhuman man that seeks sexual pleasure from every white female that worships his athletic prowess. Surely we in 2009 know better, right? Yes, the ESPNification of our sports world has created larger than life entertainment figures. Money, power and women. That’s the ticket out of a poor situation – mentally and physically. It is no longer satisfactory to score a touchdown and hand the ball to the referee or dunk the basketball and hustle back to play defense. Instead we see many of our athletes (and more likely a black man) showboating, drawing attention to themselves, and discounting the teamwork necessary to achieve such success. We as fans are drawn to the television waiting to see the clownish antics instead of running to the restroom or going back for more chips.

What has happened to sport? Or is that the very issue? It is no longer a game but rather an entertaining sitcom. Has our drive for personalities created this monster that we can no longer applaud? And to fan the flames even more, that black male athlete is then pictured at courtside, leaving the nightclub or the Hollywood awards show with a blonde haired, blue-eyed dame at his side. The racists cry out in disgust as their claims of the animalistic behavior of the black man requires the conquest of the virgin white woman. Thus, they must protect their defenseless and pure woman from the sexually charged black beast. The idealists see no color but only the expression of pure love between consenting adults. The rest of us pause, take note, and move on since there are much more pressing issues in our lives such as our ability to pay our mortgage or change the temperature in our office.

And now we have commentary to suggest that Tiger’s African genes are emerging from dormancy. So, he goes on a rampage to subjugate women. Hog wash! Most black male athletes are not chasing or keeping a harem of white women. They may not be married. They may not live the all-american lifestyle of a wife, house, and two kids either. Black male athletes are human and they are faced with pressures that are unimaginable for most. The exorbitant salaries they earn may appear to be a nice band-aid for all they are subjected to each and everyday, but didn’t we learn a long time ago that money couldn’t buy you happiness or manners?

Yes, I am a biased Tiger fan. I believe that he is not consciously excluding himself from blacks. Oftentimes our environment dictates our circle of friends and associates. Look at the demographics of the golf industry. How many black females attend golf tournaments or get invited to events whereby they could be introduced to Tiger-types? Not that it is required to be defined as a black man, but it is my understanding that he had a black girlfriend while attending Stanford. In addition, he certainly pays homage to the black golf greats through his writings and as a golfer. If one knows anything about the history of the media and its positive portrayal of African-Americans, one cannot expect an accurate picture of Tiger’s outreach to the black caddies and minority youth. It’s just not going to hit the front-page folks. And don’t think for a moment that the red and black outfit he wears on Sundays is not a strategic move either. Tiger is black. Tiger is Thai. Tiger is an athlete who made a mistake. He has a history of comebacks and success. I am confident that he will seek forgiveness from God and his wife. The former will grant that request and I hope that his marriage can survive. The black community also has a history of forgiveness for our lost and wayward members. We all cheered his victories and dominance in the white man’s game and now we should just as eagerly and earnestly pray for him. Certainly the executives of the PGA are praying since Tiger’s appearances and wins pays most of their bills. Tiger’s errant actions are no more typical of a black athlete as is his ability to hit his driver over 350 yards. He has motivated many of us to get fit, try the game of golf for the first time, and a new club or technique to improve our scores. Tiger is a motivator. Now let’s all get off the sidelines again to use this circumstance as inspiration to be critical thinkers in the midst of the media firestorm, to find sanity, and to apply our own personal life lesson.

Posted in Athletics, Leadership, Uncategorized, Wealth | Tagged , | 6 Comments

Got Sugar in the Blood? Change Your Lifestyle Today!

By admin | Published: November 9, 2009

Do you remember your elders speaking about “sugar in the blood”? Do you have a friend or family member who suffers from diabetes? The importance of understanding high blood sugar is critical to the management of our often fast-paced, unhealthy, and stressful lives. A few years ago I had the opportunity to visit the “Bodies – The Exhibition” and experienced the most engaging presentation on the anatomy and pathology of the human body. Cadavers, adult and fetus, were on display to showcase the miracle of the body and the importance of good health and exercise. This poignant visit, which highlighted all of our major bodily systems, provides the inspiration to urgently share information regarding sugar – the crack cocaine of the Black of the community!

What is the blood sugar level? The blood sugar level is the amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood. Glucose is the primary source of energy for the body’s cells. It is also known as serum glucose level. Though it is called “blood sugar,” other sugars besides glucose are found in the blood, like fructose and galactose. Normally, blood glucose levels stay within narrow limits throughout the day, but they are higher after meals and usually lowest in the morning. If the blood sugar levels drop too low, a potentially fatal condition called hypoglycemia develops. Symptoms may include lethargy, impaired mental functioning, irritability, and loss of consciousness. If levels remain too high, appetite is suppressed over the short term. Long-term hyperglycemia causes many of the long-term health problems associated with diabetes, including eye, kidney, and nerve damage. In diabetes the blood sugar level moves outside these limits until treated. Even with good control of diabetes, the blood sugar level will still at times drift outside this normal range. Diabetes complications include: retinopathy (eye disease), nephropathy (kidney disease), neuropathy (nerve disease), and cardiovascular disease (heart attack, hypertension, heart failure, stroke and gangrene). Even if your blood sugar levels are normal, get retested every three years.

The average American eats more than a pound of refined sugar each week! Sugar has many names and is found in most processed foods including your morning pastries, ketchup, and sports drinks. Unfortunately, there is no warning label for its consumption and if one continues to regularly eat this toxic food without regular cleansing, the body will become diseased and eventually fail.

What are the signs of a lifestyle that is at risk? Answer the following questions:

1. Is your breakfast usually a pastry and coffee?
2. Do you watch more than two hours a day of television?
3. Do you drink regular milk?
4. Is the elevator your preferred method of going to a third floor high rise?
5. Do you exercise less than 30 minutes a week?
6. Is your ability to handle stress poor?
7. Do you smoke? Drink alcohol regularly?
8. Do you eat one or two large meals a day (versus five or six small ones)?
9. Do you get less than six hours a sleep per day?
10. Do you rarely eat beans?

If you answered ‘yes’ to more than five of these questions, you need to consider having your blood sugar level tested immediately and implement changes in your daily routine. Although researchers are still not conclusive on the “how,” when very high levels of blood glucose are present for years, it leads to damage of the small blood vessels and possible deadly complications. In addition, research shows that the big belly or “tire around the waist” is another risk factor for diabetes than weight alone. This fat may be excess storage and reflect the body’s inability to use sugar as fuel.

In summary, choose to modify your lifestyle gradually by incorporating an on-going and sensible cleansing, eating, and exercise program. Eat more often to avoid the three big meals a day routine, reduce the amount of sugar in your diet, and drink plenty of water to aid in the cleansing of your vital organs. High levels of sugar in the blood can be conquered with disciplined action. And remember information is not power — APPLIED information is power! You will then be on your way to a lifetime of improved health and wellness!

Dr. Deborah Stroman

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