Why the Other Coaches in Your Department Don’t Like You and Why You Should Care

By admin | Published: June 21, 2012

You may have felt the stares or piercing looks from across the meeting room. You may have even been ignored or not invited to a particular outing. Why? You have the keys to the kingdom and your peers are looking in from the outside. And as you are well aware, perception is reality in sport. So what happened? You worked your tail off learning the game and even attended clinics and conventions to establish trust from coaches across country. You networked, made the right phone calls, and finally landed a head coaching position. You finally arrived but at what cost? You don’t have time for many close friends outside of the game, you miss out on many family functions and people whisper or look the other way as you walk down the hallway in your attractive new gear. Running a major sport program is certainly not for the feint of heart. However, you can make a difference in how the other intercollegiate non-revenue coaches interact with you by opening up and helping them to understand the dynamics of coaching women’s basketball.

Let’s start with how this unfavorable sentiment developed over the years. After a contentious battle with the AIAW in the 1970s and early 1980s, the NCAA made the decision to promote women’s basketball in an effort to generate support for the takeover of women’s athletics. However, the unintended consequence of administering a Division I women’s basketball tournament in 1981 was the creation of a tiered women’s sports program. Prior to NCAA governance and despite the universal popularity of women’s basketball, each women’s sport program was generally on an equal playing field for marketing, facilities, and financial support in the AIAW. Currently, women’s basketball is marketed by the NCAA as the premier women’s sport and receives increased promotion and attention. Many are still unhappy with that decision.

So what are benefits of being identified as the top women’s sport in the era of Title IX watchdogs and the emphasis on girls’ physical fitness?

1) Compensation. Your salary is more than you could have ever imagined as a youngster. And in everyone else’s mind too. Regardless of the federal law and fairness application, fans and critics still giggle at the thought of a college women’s basketball coach making more money than most university presidents.
2) Facilities. Okay, you still feel that your counterpart who coaches the men’s team is the one who is really overpaid. What about your palatial arena, locker room, and office suite? As you parade your recruits through the building and watch game footage on the state-of-the-art video board, remember that your peers are probably still waiting for their promised facility upgrade and laptops. They are more than likely sharing offices, supplies, practice space, and a copier. Hint: Don’t whistle tunes of happiness too loudly during your tour.
3) Staff support. Some fans have begun to count the number of suits sitting on basketball benches to see if there are more players than non-players. The days of a head coach and one assistant are over. One can now observe the assistant coaches, video coach, strength & conditioning coach, head manager, director of
basketball operations, athletic trainer, and nutritionist cheering or grimacing during the game. The basketball entourage is in everyone’s face and most aren’t excited that you have more support than ever to further spoil your players. The ever-growing staff support just appears to accentuate the feeling of arrogance and entitlement towards women’s basketball.
4) Confident players. Who wouldn’t want assured young women? Coaches who notice that those same athletes have become self-possessed, ungrateful, disrespectful persons when they outside of your scowl or control. Women’s basketball players are used to receiving assistance from staff and lots of freebies.
Many other non-revenue sport participants are given perks as well but they aren’t in the limelight as often. Thus, it is even more important for basketball players to be humble and kind. It hurts you and your program when women’s basketball players are selfish in the classroom, on campus, and in town.
5) Departmental support. As the flagship women’s sport in the NCAA, basketball gets special attention. The marketing team has a strategic plan, outlines media tactics, and offers special promotions for your program. Yes, they do the same for all sport teams. However, goals are established for football, men’s basketball, and your team that leaders in the department will really measure and reflect upon at the end of the year. The objectives are more than a wish list and heads may possibly roll without consistent results. People are watching.

So why even care that other Olympic sport coaches aren’t your buddies? What if people don’t understand that you didn’t make the rules? You are a team member though and it should bother you. It is important to work hard and smart to make your department a friendly and more unified unit. Remember, “A team is only as strong as its weakest link.” Any type of dissension within the athletic department will surely manifest itself in the most inopportune way and hurt the development of a player in the long run. One day you may desire to be an athletic administrator so it pays to further develop your negotiation, mentoring, and management skills. Don’t sit back and hope it goes away. Take action. Sports often serve as the front porch for the university so one can’t afford to have the dirty laundry of jealousy on the lawn chairs.

Even though you can’t control the NCAA financial distribution for women’s basketball, you can make a concerted effort to craft your legacy. Be a role model in this unique situation and reach out to the other coaches. Don’t assume that they know how you had to repeatedly make a sales pitch and keep pressure on administrators to make things happen. A teachable moment may be to invite your staff to lunch and share your story. How things weren’t always so plush and comfortable for you during your coaching journey. Share your daily appreciation for the opportunity to coach and inspire young women. Don’t take your leadership for granted. Your players and staff need to hear your acknowledgement of those who paved the way for your success and opportunity. It is important for you to extend the olive branch by being a better communicator and offering to visit with other coaches at their office. The money currently available to women’s basketball programs may dry up one day and collectively, the sport will need allies. Your star needs to shine in good and bad times. Although “leadership is lonely,” you do represent the women’s basketball family in words and deeds. Participation in the game of basketball is a privilege. Let’s be mindful of that wonderful gift by recognizing the benefits and never taking the coaching opportunity for granted.

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, entrepreneurship, 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. Her Twitter handle is drstroman.

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Educational Alignment: Creating Scholar Ballers 24/7 Near and Far

By admin | Published: June 21, 2012

Educational Alignment: Creating Scholar Ballers 24/7 Near and Far

The college sport landscape is in an uproar over the recent NCAA reform proposals
that were designed after a summit of university presidents in August of last year.
President Mark Emmert commented to the Knight Commission on Intercollegiate
Athletics, “I and the university presidents were disgusted with much of what we
had seen the preceding year—behavior issues, lack of integrity and forthrightness,
the scandals du jour. All of that was just annoying to the extreme.” This sentiment
resulted in emergency legislation that many have described as reactionary and
ineffective towards the real clean necessary to instill integrity to major college
sports. Does NCAA Division I intercollegiate women’s basketball warrant such
reform?

In particular, three measures have generated heated discussions by athletic
administrators, coaches, students, and academics. First, the plan to allow multiyear athletic scholarships rather than the one-year renewable awards is now on hold. Recently, more than 75 schools asked for an override such that the Division I board of directors may have to reconsider and vote a permanent reversal at the upcoming NCAA convention. Second, the legislation to give athletes a $2,000 stipend for living costs not covered by scholarships was recently suspended by the NCAA after at least 125 schools objected. And lastly, the presidents seek to reduce expenditures by limiting the foreign travel by athletic teams. This effort to save money in tourism may actually lessen the alignment of the university educational mission and the value of sport competition for student-athletes.

Sport is generally supported on university campuses because it fulfills the
educational charge to develop the mind and body. Students privileged to
compete at the varsity level are provided unique opportunities to learn outside
of the classroom. We all know the importance of instilling honor, teamwork,
communication, loyalty, and discipline to young people. Sport gives the institution
national exposure and provides coaches additional teaching opportunities of time
management and leadership. Coaching is not just when the athlete shows up at the
gym but rather a full-time 24/7 job. Athletes need instruction each and every day
and the coach’s role has expanded to mother, grandmother, father, and grandfather
– offering praise and discipline. NCAA Bylaw 30.7 outlines the foreign tours and
competition for member institutions and states that schools must not engage in a
foreign tour more than once every four years. Tours may only be scheduled during
the summer vacation period (or any other university official vacation period).
Hence, it can be argued that foreign destination road trips further isolate the
students from normal campus distractions, thus enhancing the atmosphere most
conducive for parenting and learning.

Foreign travel should be considered as a study abroad equivalent for student-
athletes. Study abroad programs are highly valued and encouraged on college
campuses. The immersion in another culture certainly provides students with the
chance to engage with people of other ethnicities and see firsthand the geographic
and architectural marvels of another country. Many athletes do not have the time,
schedule or finances to participate in their respective institution’s study abroad
program. The tour is now the family trip for many young ladies. Quite possibly, the
foreign travel trip is an once-in-a-lifetime occasion to leave the United States and
learn how blessed and fortunate one is to play collegiate athletics. The American
life is often a spoiled one and after leaving the comforts of home and campus,
the players can hopefully learn how not to take things for granted. So why create
this urgent legislative proposal to eliminate foreign travel? Perhaps athletic
administrators and coaches aren’t properly managing and promoting the academic
benefit to the bean counters and naysayers across campus.

It is no secret that there has always been a rift between academic and athletic
interests on college campuses. With the increased attention on football and
men’s basketball salaries, the front-page sport scandals, and the increasing
costs to universities and state budgets, the journalistic spotlight is wider and so
technologically advanced such that the radiance is now shining on the entire sports
program. Every sport program is a target for scrutiny and each mishap (financially
or competitively) can be used to justify the elimination of college varsity sports.
Intercollegiate women’s basketball program leaders would be prudent to consider
the following suggestions to avoid the additional examination of foreign travel and
to stay aligned with the university mission:

1. Develop relationships with professors. Faculty has power and a voice. Let
those who support your cause be a significant part of your program. Develop
and encourage faculty mentors for your players. Invite them to join your
overseas trip and to develop academic sessions to further maximize the
learning experience. Foreign travel focused on winning against cupcake
opponents and participating in a quick cookie-cutter tour is a setup for
disaster and a waste of money.
2. Research academic and extra credit opportunities for your trip. Independent
study, study abroad, and internship courses that are customized to the
location may be applied for the student’s learning.
3. Empower the athletes to creatively document their experience. Initiate pairs
or triads and ask them to develop a video and to journal their experience.
What did you learn? How would you change America or your hometown after
experiencing the various aspects of this culture or region?
4. Challenge each athlete to complete a leadership project during the trip. Based
on each student’s ability, design an activity or assignment that requires
critical thinking regarding her career aspirations, academic major or a
national hot topic. Share the learning during the offseason or over a holiday
break.
5. Rethink the nonconference schedule. Although many fans aren’t too happy
with noncompetitive early season games, the savings to your budget may
prove to be the wisest decision. Foster regional and natural rivalries that
don’t require overnight stays or airline flights. With conference expansion,
many schools can now compete against a “power program” in another league
to gain early postseason-type competition without traveling overnight.
6. Bring more attention to why sport exists on campus. Educate your ballers
about why and how sport fits into the mission of the university. Invite guest
lecturers to speak to your team. Help to increase their understanding of
the complexities of athletic opportunities which will enhance the players’
reputation and reduce their sometimes spoiled and childish behavior
on campus. Remember, they represent and reflect you as they interact
with others on campus. Hey baller! Someone paid for you to be here. Be
appreciative.

The median NCAA DI institution spent ~ $2.5 million annually on team travel in
2006. Yikes! Critics of college sport often ask questions such as “Why can’t distance limits be placed on travel to all but a few special games?” “Is the practice of having teams stay in hotels before home games necessary?” and “Why can’t playing seasons be shortened, both for academic and financial reasons?” These queries are legitimate but may be more applicable to football. Women’s basketball is the non-revenue sport, if properly marketed, with the most potential to make money (if necessary) and engage the local community. Globally, basketball is the most popular sport among female teens, according to the International Basketball Federation. And it’s only been 30 years since the first NCAA women’s championship tournament took place and 73 years after the first for men, so with perspective one understands the progress that has been made in college women’s basketball.

However, there is no doubt that everyone must do more with less. The country’s
current economic plight requires a cut in expenses regardless of one’s status as an
individual, company or governmental agency. Intercollegiate women’s basketball
programs benefit from foreign travel though. If the purpose of the undergraduate
degree is to foster critical thinking, gain knowledge and independence for young
people, a major road trip is most beneficial. There are other budget items in men’s
basketball or football that can afford shrinkage of dollars. Let’s rally the troops,
discuss the issue, and get member institutions to override this elimination of foreign
travel proposal too.

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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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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