Athletic Management 24.3

April/May 2012

Vol. XXIV, No. 3

$7.00

› New Ideas in Ticket Sales › Getting Feedback › One Too Many Concussions › Field Maintenance

A Pitch for Survival

Setting up self-funded teams

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Contents April/May 2012

Vol. XXIV, No. 3

57

14 51

WARMUP

4 Football

7-on-7 spirals out of control

32

COVER STORY

A Pitch for Survival

When athletic departments can no longer financially support one or more teams, they are turning to donors and community members to save the day. Here’s how to make a pitch for a self-funded program.

41

LEADERSHIP

Becoming a successful athletic director doesn’t happen without getting meaningful feedback from others. And those “others” should include parents and coaches.

How Am I Doing?

51

MARKETING

Using strategic partnerships and online technology, athletic departments are coming up with innovative new ideas for selling and distributing game tickets.

57

SPORTS MEDICINE

How many concussions equal too many? At the University of Texas, the sports medicine staff recently tackled this question with two of its football players.

65

FACILITIES

10 Promotions

Testing out Groupon

14 Progressive Programs Athletes produce IGB video

65

One Too Many

Ground Control

In the blink of a few back-to-back games, athletic fields can go from beautiful to blah. Two top sports field managers reveal how to keep everything under control.

76

PRODUCT NEWS

Outdoor Facilities

This section features our annual Guide to Synthetic Turf, as well as product information on sponsor and donor signage, bleachers, scoreboards, and other outdoor facility components.

Q&A

21 Carter Wilson Decatur (Ga.) High School GAMEPLANS

25 Handling Conflicts

By Dr. Sue Willey 29 Life Skills Programs

Media interviews

On Sale Now

6 Hiring

On the cover After being cut from the budget, the University of California’s baseball team became financed by outside sources last year. Our cover story, beginning on page 32, details the nuances of implementing self-funded programs. PHOTO BY MICHAEL J. BURNS

By Scott Garvis

80 Advertisers Directory 96 Next Stop: Web Site AthleticManagement.com | APRIL/MAY 2012 1

Editorial Board VOL. XXIV, NO. 3

APRIL/MAY 2012

Elizabeth “Betsy” A. Alden, PhD, President, Alden & Associates, Inc. Craig Bogar, EdD, Dean of Student Services/Instructor, United States Sports Academy

PUBLISHER Mark Goldberg

Dan Cardone, Athletic Director, North Hills High School, Pa. James Conn, PhD, Professor, Dept. of Health & Human Performance, Central Missouri State University Robert Corran, PhD, Director of Athletics, University of Vermont James Cox, Facilities and Events Coordinator and Adjunct Professor, Barry University Joan Cronan, Women’s Athletic Director, University of Tennessee Roger Crosley, Coordinator of Athletic Operations, Emerson College

EDITOR IN CHIEF Eleanor Frankel ASSOCIATE EDITORS Dennis Read, Abigail Funk ASSISTANT EDITORS RJ Anderson, Patrick Bohn, Mike Phelps, Kristin Maki ART DIRECTOR Pamela Crawford

Bernie DePalma, Head Athletic Trainer/Physical Therapist, Cornell University Tom Douple, Commissioner, Mid-Continent Conference Jay Gardiner, Director of Athletics, Oglethorpe University Dale Gibson, EdD, Chair, Dept. of Education and Sport Management, Tusculum College Tom Gioglio, EdD, Director of Athletics, East Stroudsburg University

CIRCULATION DIRECTOR David Dubin CIRCULATION MANAGER Sandra Earle PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Maria Bise GRAPHIC ARTIST Trish Landsparger PREPRESS MANAGER Neal Betts

Mike Glazier, Partner, Bond, Schoeneck & King Steve Green, Deputy Director of Athletics, Northwestern University

BUSINESS MANAGER Pennie Small

Kevin Hatcher, Athletic Director, Cal State San Bernardino

SPECIAL PROJECTS Natalie Couch, Dave Wohlhueter

Phillip Hossler, ATC, Athletic Trainer, East Brunswick High School, N.J. E. Newton Jackson, Jr., PhD, Associate Provost, University of North Florida

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Sharon Barbell

Dick Kemper, CMAA, Executive Director, Virginia Independent Schools Athletic Association

MARKETING DIRECTOR Sheryl Shaffer

Bob Knickerbocker, Athletic Equipment Coordinator, Michigan State University

AD MATERIALS COORDINATOR Mike Townsend

John Knorr, EdD, Professor of Kinesiology, former Director of Athletics, St. Edward’s University Donald Lowe, MA, ATC, Chairman of the Board, College Athletic Trainers' Society Robert Mathner, PhD, Assistant Professor, Sport Management, Troy University Tim Neal, Assistant Director of Athletics for Sports Medicine, Syracuse University Fred Nuesch, Coordinator of Athletic External Affairs, Texas A&M-Kingsville Jamie Plunkett, Head Athletic Trainer, Allegheny College Chris Ritrievi, Vice President of Development, Indiana University

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Matthew J. Robinson, EdD, Associate Professor/Director of Sport Management Program, University of Delaware Calli Theisen Sanders, EdD, Senior Associate Athletics Director, Iowa State University Terry Schlatter, EMC, Equipment Manager, University of Wisconsin Tim Slauter, CMAA, Assistant Principal, West Lafayette High School, Ind. Michael Slive, Commissioner, Southeastern Conference Donald Staffo, PhD, Dept. Chair, Health, Phys. Ed., & Rec., Stillman College Ellen Staurowsky, EdD, Professor of Sport Management, Drexel University William F. Stier, Jr., EdD, Director of Sport Management/ Coor­­dinator of Sport Coaching, State University of New York at Brockport Lou Strasberg, University Travel Coordinator, The University of Memphis E. Michael Stutzke, CMAA, Athletic Director, Sebastian River High School, Fla. Michael Thomas, Director of Athletics, University of Illinois

Athletic Management (ISSN 1554-2033) is published bimonthly for a total of 6 times a year, by MAG, Inc., 20 Eastlake Rd., Ithaca, NY, 14850. Athletic Management is distributed without charge to qualified high school and collegiate athletic program and athletic facilities personnel. The paid subscription rate is $24 for one year/six issues in the United States and $30.00 in Canada. The single copy price is $7. Copyright ©2012 by MAG, Inc. All rights reserved. Text may not be reproduced in any manner, in whole or in part, without permission of the publisher.

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2 APRIL/MAY 2012 | AthleticManagement.com

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WarmUp Football

7-on-7 huddle

For high school athletic directors, early summer typically provides a respite from their football program. The growing popularity of 7-on-7 passing events, however, is changing that.

While 7-on-7 scholastic football camps and tournaments— those run by high school coaches—are still seen as a positive, the proliferation of 7-on-7 “all-star” squads is raising eyebrows. The concern is that these teams, which have no educational oversight, can be run by people promising college scholarships and may not be in the best interests of student-athletes.

Delegates at last summer’s NFHS annual meeting last summer discussed the topic, and according to Executive Director Bob Gardner, one of the main worries is the way third parties can insert themselves into the recruiting process through the all-star teams. “The system that’s been in place for a long time is one where high school football is the recruiting field for the college market, and it’s worked well,” he says.

“Now that non-scholastic 7-on-7 camps have grown in importance, it’s opened the door for people outside the educational community to get involved, and we don’t see that as a good thing.

“Unsophisticated young people and parents who are unfamiliar with the recruiting process are easy prey for these individuals who promise a college scholarship for an athlete who plays on their team,” continues Gardner.

The NCAA is also carefully watching the trend. “Over the past year, our enforcement staff has attended 7-on-7 tournaments in several states,” says Marcus Wilson, NCAA Associate Director of Enforcement. “We’ve spoken to high school coaches

4 APRIL/MAY 2012 | AthleticManagement.com

and event organizers, and the primary concern is the involvement of third parties and scouting services. These outside individuals often tout themselves as having a relationship with a college coach that can enhance a player’s chances of getting a scholarship.”

The reality is that such individuals often offer no access to college coaches—who are prohibited from attending the events and are becoming more and more wary of them.

“The potential for corruption stemming from third-party involvement is a big concern for us,” says Tim Murphy, President of the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) and Head Football Coach at Harvard University.

“A lot of high-profile college coaches, especially in the South, where 7-on-7 is growing quickly, are concerned about the direction this is going. High school football players do not need street agents brokering their services to colleges.”

Murphy applauds the rule enacted by the Southeastern Conference last year that bars all non-scholastic camps from being held on member campuses. “What the SEC has done is a positive step, and should send a message loud and clear to athletes about what colleges think of these camps,” he says. “The AFCA is legitimately concerned, and we will continue to work with our coaches to identify the best possible solutions.”

In the meantime, how should high school athletic administrators and football coaches handle the situation? Jeff

Concern over the growth of 7-on-7 football events has the NFHS, NCAA, and football coaches at all levels discussing the topic. Above, players from Duncanville and Arlington High Schools in Texas go head-to-head during a 7-on-7 tournament at Grand Prairie High School’s Gopher Warrior Bowl.

Dicus, Head Football Coach at Duncanville (Texas) High School, has responded by not allowing his players to participate on all-star 7-on-7 teams. He feels parents and student-athletes need to remember the critical role high school coaches play in recruiting.

“What a high school coach says about a player’s work ethic, character, and academic abilities goes a long way with a college coach,” he says. “These are all things colleges are looking for, and we’re the ones who can really speak to that.”

Terry Smith, Head Football Coach at Gateway (Pa.) High School, does not prohibit his players from considering allstar teams, but he does take time to vet the squads. “These non-scholastic teams can be a good thing or a bad thing,” he says. “It all depends on who’s running them. Adults need to do due diligence to

make sure it’s a good experience for the athletes.

“I look into any traveling team my players want to join,” Smith continues.

“First, I do an Internet search for the organizer’s name, because if there’s something negative about them or their operation, it’s going to be out there. Then, I call coaches whose opinions I trust and ask if they’ve dealt with these individuals.”

If he’s still wary about letting an athlete compete for a nonscholastic team, Smith goes to the camp with his player and takes a look around. “Talking to the coach or the organizer of the event is useful,” he says. “I ask if they’re having discussions with players about things like their non-football career goals. If they’re not, and it’s only about football, I won’t let my kids play at that camp. I can teach them how to get better at football on my own.”

Circle No. 102

WarmUp In looking for a new football coach last winter, South Dakota School of Mines & Technology (SDSM&T) Athletic

Director Dick Kaiser wanted a transparent hiring process that would also drum up some

positive attention. So after whittling his list of candidates to four, he decided to place them in front of the media.

As part of a day-and-a-half interview, each finalist was asked to participate in a press conference with local

As part of the hiring process for a head football coach, SDSM&T Athletic Director Dick Kaiser (on right) asked each candidate to participate in a press conference. Stacy Collins (left) got the job.

Tasked with either cutting costs or increasing revenue for the 2011-12 school year, Edina (Minn.) Athletic Director John Soma asked community members

Budget Cuts

PAY TO TRY

for ideas. During one parent meeting, someone suggested charging a non-refundable $50 tryout fee for the boys’ and girls’ golf and ice hockey teams.

“For golf, even though we aren’t charged greens fees by the course

6 APRIL/MAY JUNE/JULY 2009 2012 | | AthleticManagement.com AthleticManagement.com

Along with giving Kaiser a great tool for evaluating each candidate’s ability to handle the media spotlight, the process brought some nice coverage to the Hardrocker football program, which along with the rest of the athletic program, is in the process of transitioning into NCAA Division II from NAIA Division II. “We were also coming off of a 1-10 season, and I thought this was a perfect opportunity to fire up our fan base,” Kaiser says.

For their presentations, Kaiser asked each coach to address four basic questions: Why he was interested in the position, how his background had prepared him, his experience in recruiting high-quality studentathletes facing high academic

for tryouts, the athletes still play a full round of golf, which most people have to pay for,” he continues.

“So we felt it was reasonable to ask for a fee there, too.”

Hockey players already pay a $220 participation fee at Edina, while golf team members are charged $140.

Student-athletes pay the complete amount before tryouts. If they don’t make the team, their money is refunded minus the tryout fee.

Hiring

Meet the Press demands, and what he brings to the job that makes him special. “The prepared portion allowed each candidate to get comfortable before questions from reporters started coming their way,” says Kaiser.

During the Q&A with reporters, the coaches fielded questions on topics ranging from offensive and defensive preferences to coaching philosophies. Then, they were made available for one-on-one meetings with media members. Along with the event being reported on by local Continued on page 8

would have gone over well if parents thought we were simply trying to get money from them. But we discussed all our options with them, and showed them this was a way for us to increase revenue so we could maintain opportunities.”

Soma says the school explained the rationale to athletes and their parents during preseason meetings and in a note at the bottom of the online sign-up sheet, and they took the new policy in stride. “Parents realize that tryouts for ice hockey and golf are different than basketball, which take place in a gym that we own,” he says. “We give parents a number to call if they have questions, but so far we haven’t had any problems.

“The key was knowing what parents were willing to pay and educating them on why we’re doing it,” Soma continues. “I don’t think it

At Edina (Minn.) High School, studentathletes who tried out for the boys’ and girls’ hockey teams this year paid a $50 fee, even if they did not make the cut.

BRIAN NELSON (HOCKEY)

“The community wanted us to focus on increasing revenue as opposed to cutting sports,” Soma says. “Typically, we have a large number of students try out for both boys’ and girls’ ice hockey, and we have to pay to use the local rink, so this was seen as a way to offset that cost.

reporters. The media event required candidates to prepare a short presentation then field questions from Rapid City-area reporters in a session that lasted about 45 minutes.

Circle No. 103

WarmUp The Williamsport (Pa.) High School boys’ basketball team poses with players from Nanyang Model High School in China, whom they competed against this winter.

“Our student body was wonderful and cheered for both teams,” McCann continues. “The athletes from Nanyang were playing to the crowd during warmups and seemed to really enjoy themselves. It was a great experience for everybody.”

Cultural Exchange

Hosting China On a cold Wednesday night in January, members of the Williamsport (Pa.) Area High School boys’ basketball team played in a game they won’t forget. Though the specifics of the 60-31 Williamsport victory weren’t particularly memorable, the opponent was: Nanyang Model High School, from Shanghai, China.

The alma mater of former NBA all-star Yao Ming, Nanyang is one of Shanghai’s top teams, and the first Chinese high school squad to play in the United States.

The team visited Williamsport as part of a tour of the Northeast with other stops in upstate New York, New Jersey, New York City, and Washington, D.C. Williamsport was Nanyang’s third opponent on U.S. soil and when the teams took the court in front of 1,500 spectators the atmosphere was electric. “Normally we draw 600 or 700 people for a weeknight game,” says Williamsport Athletic Director Sean McCann. “But our community saw this as a really big game and came out to support the event.

A few years in the making, the tour was the brainchild of Joe Cooley, an American businessman who used to live in Shanghai. With a home near Nanyang, Cooley would often attend the school’s sporting events and soon befriended the principal and coaches, who mentioned to him that the basketball team wanted to visit America. After moving back to the States, Cooley reached out to his personal contacts to discuss the idea of hosting the Chinese team.

McCann joined the conversation through his school’s retired head boys’ basketball coach, who was a college fraternity brother of Cooley. McCann thought the game was a fantastic idea, provided it could be sanctioned by the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA).

“The game would have to count against our record because the PIAA doesn’t allow in-season exhibition games,” he says. “So I had to make sure their players were the proper age and eligible to compete under our state guidelines.”

When everything checked out with the PIAA, McCann told Cooley his school was Continued on page 10

Meet the Press continued from page 6 media, video from the press conference was posted on the SDSM&T athletics Web site and YouTube.

“The media loved the format and so did our boosters and community,” Kaiser says.

“People were talking to me on the street saying, ‘I saw the interviews on the Internet and I really liked this candidate or that candidate.’”

SDSM&T eventually named Stacy Collins as its new coach, and Kaiser says Collins’s press conference performance went a long way toward him being chosen. “When we made our decision, a big part of why we picked Stacy was that he had a 8 APRIL/MAY 2012 | AthleticManagement.com

great energy level throughout the entire process—including the press conference,” says Kaiser. “His presentation was top rate and very professional.”

Collins, who has made a number of stops during his 14 years in the coaching profession, says he’d never experienced a press conference tryout before, and took time to prepare himself. “I contemplated what type of message I wanted to convey as the next head football coach at the School of Mines,” he says. “Then I wrote down what I wanted to say, created a presentation that I practiced in front of the camera on my iPad, and watched

it four or five times to see how I could tweak my message and delivery.

“I also had a couple people watch it with me to offer their critiques,” he adds. “They gave me some great suggestions on how to make it better.”

Kaiser says other schools have taken notice of the unique process, and he’s fielded a handful of phone calls from athletic directors curious about giving it a try. “My biggest

›

advice is to not make the press conferences complicated,” Kaiser says. “Give the coaches a couple of scripted questions to help break the ice, open it up to the media, and don’t try to control the questions they ask. Once it’s rolling, just sit back and watch the show.

“The process really generated some excitement for both our new coach and our team,” Kaiser adds. “Hopefully that carries over into the fall.”

To view SDSM&T Coach Stacy Collins’s press conference interview, go to YouTube.com and search: “SD Mines Head Football Coaching Candidate Press Conference: Stacy Collins.”

Circle No. 104

WarmUp Promotions

a groupon effort When a then season-high 12,102 fans showed up at Allstate Arena to watch

the DePaul University men’s basketball team host Syracuse University on Jan. 1, the larger-than-average crowd didn’t happen by chance.

Instead, it resulted from the holiday weekend, the allure of the then-top-ranked

Orange, and a special promotion—discounted tickets through Groupon.

Nearly 800 of the discounted tickets were sold through Groupon.

Partnering with the popular discount Web site, DePaul offered the chance to purchase lower-level seats behind the baskets—normally a $20 value—for around $12, with the goal of luring new fans.

Popping up in more and more cities, Groupon works by offering one deal per day in each market it serves, with a predetermined number of people required to sign up for the discount to be valid.

The merchant—in this case, DePaul—pays no upfront cost to participate, but splits the money brought in with Groupon roughly 50-50.

“The idea came from our Assistant Ticket Manager, Marty Murphy, who uses Groupon himself,” says DePaul Athletics Director Jean Lenti Ponsetto.

DePaul University boosted its ticket sales in January by partnering with Groupon, which offers discounted coupons to customers. The above game vs. Syracuse was one of two men’s contests with Groupon offers, and the promotion was also used with one women’s basketball game.

Hosting China continued from page 8 on board. They settled on a date, and it was time to promote the game. “The district had just hired a PR director, and he and I worked together to get the word out,” says McCann. “I put together the press releases with information about the Chinese team and he contacted the media outlets.”

10 APRIL/MAY 2012 | AthleticManagement.com

Once the game got underway, Williamsport’s athleticism and full-court pressure defense quickly overwhelmed

Nanyang. “Our fast-paced style kind of flustered them,” says McCann. “They play a different style of basketball.

They had good size—a couple of kids were 6-6, 6-7— and preferred to walk the ball up court and play half-court offense.”

For McCann, though, the oncourt action took a backseat to watching the two teams interact before and after the game. While none of the players from Nanyang spoke English fluently and there were just two translators present, student-athletes from both sides quickly figured out how to communicate with each other.

“The best part came after the game when the teams were eating pizza and socializing,” says McCann. “A lot of the players had their cell phones out recording videos of each other. One of our players asked a player from Nanyang, ‘Who is your favorite rapper?’

Our guys were using gestures to describe what a rapper is and then all of a sudden a Nanyang player shouted out ‘Jay-Z!’ “Later, they started to dance together and did the popular Dougie dance,” McCann adds.

“Watching them goof around put smiles on our faces. The other adults and I just watched and said to each other, ‘Yeah, this is what it’s all about.’”

ROSS DETTMAN

News of a unique opponent coming to town traveled fast.

“A local TV station did two stories, one with a sports angle and the other with a human relations slant, and the newspaper ran several articles,” says McCann. “The coverage really built excitement, and that led to a lot of advance ticket sales, which we don’t normally get.”

After arriving in Williamsport, the Nanyang players were treated to a tour of the Little League Baseball Museum before going to the high school for a pregame workout with their host team. “That was a good opportunity for the players to get to know each other,” says McCann.

“Then, before tip-off, the two teams exchanged gifts, which is a custom in China.

Our booster club presented players from both teams commemorative towels with logos from the two schools and the game’s date stitched in.”

Circle No. 105

WarmUp “Some of our peer institutions in the Big East, like Georgetown and Seton Hall, have also used Groupon, so we thought we’d give it a try.

“Setting everything up was pretty easy,” she continues.

“We signed a contract, which

motion on the athletics department Web site, which helped build a bigger crowd, but didn’t help with the main goal of getting new fans. “By putting it on our Web site, there were probably people buying the discounted tickets who were already DePaul fans and

with Groupon for a men’s basketball game—Jan. 17 against Georgetown—it did not promote the deal on the department Web site. Instead, the only way to learn about it was through Groupon.

“The results weren’t as encouraging— we probably sold a couple hundred tickets.

But they were people who were less likely to have previously experienced a DePaul event,” Ponsetto says. “There was also the fact that Syracuse was over a weekend and the Georgetown game was at 6 p.m. on a Tuesday night.”

“Folks who we know bought Groupon tickets and then bought tickets to games after that will be prime targets for season tickets or mini packages next year ... We’re using Groupon to get them in the building, then hopefully we can encourage them to come back again.” is typical in any kind of ticket sales relationship with an independent contractor. They were very easy to work with.”

had been to games before,” Ponsetto says. “It helped us sell tickets, but it didn’t necessarily get us a new audience.”

For the Syracuse game, DePaul decided to publicize the pro-

With that in mind, the next time the school partnered

DePaul also used a Groupon promotion for a women’s basketball game against the University of Pittsburgh

on Jan. 14, which yielded about 100 tickets sold. Going forward, Ponsetto says she plans to use Groupon again for men’s and women’s basketball, but will likely target mid-week Big East conference games, since weekend games tend to sell fairly well on their own. Perhaps more important is the work that will be done between now and then, using the information gathered from this past season’s promotions.

“Folks who we know bought Groupon tickets and then bought tickets to games after that will be prime targets for season tickets or mini packages next year,” Ponsetto says. “Those are people we’ll be sure to make a phone call to, rather than just mail a brochure. We’re using Groupon to get them in the building for the first time, then hopefully we can encourage them to come back again.”

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Circle No. 107

Progressive Programs

After being hired as Head Girls’ Basketball Coach at Southern Door High School in Brussels, Wis., earlier this school year, Brandon Wautier was eager for a familiar face with plenty of experience to join his staff. He found the perfect person in someone who has known him longer than anybody—his mother.

Having spent 26 years coaching various levels at Southern Door, Penny Wautier had recently retired as head girls’ coach following Coaching j.v. the 2010-11 season. She agreed to come back to coach alongside her son.

Mom oN Board

“After I interviewed for the job,” says Brandon Wautier, “I told her that if I got it, I would love to have her run the j.v. team and help me out as an assistant varsity coach, but at that time she didn’t commit to anything. When I got hired, she was pretty excited and accepted my offer right away.”

Prior to moving back to Southern Door, his alma mater, Brandon Wautier spent two years running the boys’ freshman team at a nearby high school, but he had no experience coaching girls. However, Penny Wautier had plenty, and was instrumental in helping Brandon make the transition.

“My mom was great about teaching me how to deal with the different types of conflicts that can pop up with girls and how to communicate with them, which is a little different than with a boys’ team,” says Brandon. “Also, she was very familiar with the players, having coached them at the middle school and j.v. levels, which gave the program continuity and earned me instant credibility.

That allowed me to hit the ground running.”

Though he’s not sure if his mother will retain her j.v. head coaching duties next season, Brandon hopes she’ll stay on as his varsity assistant coach for years to come. “We have a lot of the same offensive and defensive philosophies and approaches to the game—we’re always on the same page,” he says. “Plus, it’s been nice being able to spend time together at practice. For us, basketball has always been a common bond.”

One of Brandon Wautier’s first moves as Head Girls’ Basketball Coach at Southern Door was to hire his mom, Penny Wautier.

Last year during a Saint Michael’s College men’s ice hockey game, an opposing player directed a racial slur toward an AfricanAmerican athlete on the Purple Knights’ team.

The offending player was called on it and had to answer to his school’s athletic director, who told him the behavior was not acceptable. But this past season, when the same player made a homophobic comment to another Saint Michael’s athlete, nothing happened.

“Nobody did anything about it,” says Dave Landers, Faculty Athletics Representative at Saint Michael’s. “The player it was said to went ballistic, and later when the game official was asked about the incident, he admitted he had heard the comment, but didn’t do anything.

“That’s where I think there’s a responsibility for administrators,” continues Landers.

“We have to do a better job of saying to all coaches and assistant coaches and athletic trainers and game officials, ‘You have to challenge this kind of behavior.’ What has happened in the last few years is that anything racist will be challenged, but not something homophobic. Yet homophobic comments can be just as destructive as racist ones.”

Landers then put his thoughts into action by challenging Saint Michael’s studentathletes to create an “It Gets Better” video. The It Gets Better Project got its start in September 2010 when syndicated columnist and book author Dan Savage created a YouTube video with his partner, Terry Miller, to inspire hope in young people facing harassment and remind them that “it gets better.” Since then, countless others, including President Barack Obama,

Saint Michael’s women’s basketball player Samantha Steinmetz was one of the student-athlete leaders on the school’s “It Gets Better” video project. have strengthened the message with their own videos.

Landers began by meeting with Jen Niebling, the school’s women’s basketball coach and SAAC Advisor, who loved the idea. Next, he attended a SAAC meeting, where he showed athletes an “It Gets Better” video created by the Boston Red Sox and also directed them to Athlete Ally.com, a site dedicated to improving the current culture, language, and attitudes toward gays in sports.

SHANE BUFANO

14 APRIL/MAY 2012 | AthleticManagement.com

helping it get better

WarmUp “What I said to them was exactly what I ended up saying in the video—last fall there were at least 10 young people across the country who committed suicide because they were either gay or perceived to be gay,” Landers says. “It was found that many of the kids who took their own lives had been bullied, and in too many of the situations, the people doing the bullying had been athletes. So I told our SAAC what I thought they should do, but left the decision up to them.”

Landers says that within 24 hours, Brady Earle, a member of the men’s ice hockey team, and Samantha Steinmetz, a women’s basketball player, had contacted Common Ground, the gay/straight alliance on the Saint Michael’s campus. Landers got the backing of school President John Neuhauser, and within another couple weeks, a script had been written.

The SAAC then collaborated with students in the journalism department who had access to camera equipment and began to put together footage. The final product consisted of interviews with various student-athletes, administrators, and others on campus showing their support for the LGBT community and spreading the “It Gets Better” message.

As momentum for the project grew, Landers heard from a member of the men’s tennis team, Brian Healey. “He told me that he really wanted to be part of the video as an openly gay athlete,” Landers says. “I knew him, but I didn’t know he was gay. I made sure he was okay with the world knowing he was gay, and he was.”

On the morning of Dec. 14, Landers saw the final product for the first time and was blown away. The students originally wanted to wait until the beginning of the spring

semester and have a party to release the three-and-a-halfminute video, but Landers and Neuhauser convinced them to post it immediately.

“The holidays can be a really tough time for gay kids,” Landers says. “I wanted to put it out there as a gift to all our students on campus so they could see it before they went home for the holidays.”

The video was posted on YouTube, Vimeo, and Facebook, and it quickly became a viral sensation beyond the campus community, with little done to promote it. The video has amassed approximately 3,200 hits on YouTube and another 5,000 on Vimeo to date.

“We’ve gotten e-mails from all over the country,” says Landers. “I received one from a 61-year old man who is a high school girls’ basketball coach.

He is gay and not out, and wants to make a safer place for his high school athletes.

Brian has also received some amazing e-mails from tennis coaches across the country.

“People have been really surprised that this is coming from a Catholic college, but to my knowledge there hasn’t been any blowback from the bishop or campus ministry,” he continues. “Everyone is just very excited about what our students have done and they are very eager to share it. I could not be more proud of the students. I put the idea out there for them, but they took it and ran with it. They wanted to make a difference and let people know that athletes can be allies and not adversaries—and that it does get better.”

›

To watch the Saint Michael’s “It Gets Better” video, go to YouTube.com and type “Saint Michael’s College It Gets Better” into the search window.

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Circle No. 109

WarmUp When Elmira College Head Women’s Volleyball Coach Rhonda Faunce looks into

the stands during a match, she sees them cheering wildly. When she walks across campus, she notices them playing pepper with members of her team. When she heads to the punch bowl at a team party, there they are again: men. And Faunce couldn’t be happier to see them.

Like several other NCAA Division III schools, Elmira recently added men’s volleyball to its athletic offerings. While the move was designed to help increase the school’s male enrollment, according Faunce, it has also been beneficial for her team.

“Our women’s program has traditionally been decent, but since we added the men’s program two years ago, it just feels like there’s new energy surrounding the team,” says Faunce. “I’m not afraid to say that

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the men’s program has boosted the morale of the women’s program and added excitement for the sport on our campus.”

For example, attend an Elmira women’s match and you’re likely to see 10 or more male players cheering loudly with their chests painted. “And the level of play on both squads has really gone up,” says Faunce, whose team went from 17 wins in 2009 to 28 in each of the past two seasons.

“Players from both the men’s and women’s teams are constantly getting together to play pickup games.”

A key to the positive relationship between the two teams has been the synergy of the coaching staffs.

Head Men’s Coach Jeff Lennox is also an Assistant Coach on the women’s squad, and he and Faunce have similar coaching philosophies. “We believe in the same things,” Faunce says. “He’s very driven about doing

Adding Men

things the right way and teaches his players correct behavior, including having respect for women.

“If he had a different philosophy than me, that could be a downside,” she continues. “But with the setup we have, where the men’s coach is involved with the women’s program and we communicate a lot, it has been great.”

At Elmira College, the recently formed men’s volleyball team has been a positive for the women’s squad in many ways, including being its biggest fans.

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Circle No. 112

Q & A

Carter Wilson DECATUR (GA.) HIGH SCHOOL

AM: Your career path has had a lot of twists and turns.

Some people know exactly what they want to do when they graduate college. Carter Wilson was not one of those people.

After starting out as an accountant, Wilson switched gears and became a teacher and assistant boys’ basketball coach at Decatur (Ga.) High School, his alma mater, in 1979.

He was promoted to head coach in 1983, then moved to Georgia State University as assistant men’s basketball coach two years later. He became head coach in 1994, but after three years returned to the high school ranks, taking over at Tucker (Ga.) High School, where he coached for three more seasons.

In 2000, Wilson was hired as Head Boys’ Basketball Coach and Athletic Director at Decatur—a career move that stuck.

He has taken the athletic department to new levels of success, highlighted by improving many of the school’s facilities.

Wilson: Yes, absolutely. When I went from accounting to education, I was going to the unknown and didn’t know how it would end up. The day I told my mother, I’ll never forget what she said to me: “What took you so long?” She knew before I did, but she wanted me to come to the decision on my own.

When I was an assistant college coach, I thought from there I’d become an assistant athletic director, then an athletic director on the college level. But instead I became a head college basketball coach—something that was completely unexpected. It was a great experience and I loved every second of it, but I still had the desire to be an athletic administrator.

Despite having some offers to stay in college basketball, I went back to coaching in high school and a couple years later the superintendent of schools in Decatur called to tell me they were creating the position of athletic administrator and wanted me to fill it.

There was no job description and I immediately had to hire a new head football coach.

I was knee-deep in athletic administration from day one.

What is your philosophy on hiring coaches?

I have always thought that the coaching profession is a cut above everything else you can possibly do. Teaching is a very noble profes-

sion—but coaching is teaching plus getting into a kid’s life. You’re teaching your sport, but also teaching life lessons every single day.

So when hiring, I look first for someone who can connect with young people on their level. During the course of an interview, I try to get a feel for if they’ll have that ability. I also want someone who is willing to learn.

I’m not impressed by a candidate who knows it all. I look for coaches eager to keep getting better.

What is your approach to mentoring those coaches?

It’s awfully difficult to mentor someone if you don’t have a relationship with them. So I try to develop those relationships through regular conversations and by having an opendoor policy. Not every coach needs the same thing, but they all need something. You have to be willing to give them what they need for the process to work.

Before stepping down from coaching boys’ basketball at Decatur in 2010, you had the opportunity to coach your son.

What was that experience like?

To start, there was a huge learning curve on my part. I held him to a standard that was impossible for any human being to achieve.

The very first day of practice, I dismissed him early because I thought he wasn’t working hard enough. Luckily, one of my assistants eventually told me I was crossing the line.

ESME CARPENTER

Wilson is also active on the statewide level, joining the Board of Directors of the Georgia Athletic Directors Association (GADA) in 2003 and serving as the organization’s President in 2009-10. He earned GADA Region Athletic Director of the Year honors in 2004 and 2009 and received a Distinguished Service Award in 2010. In this interview, Wilson, CMAA, discusses his career path, hiring coaches, and dealing with negative publicity.

Decatur implemented boys’ and girls’ lacrosse teams in 2005.

AthleticManagement.com | APRIL/MAY 2012 21

From there, I asked an assistant to do most of the one-on-one coaching with my son, and once we got past the first couple of months, things totally turned around.

It then ended up being the single greatest experience I had as a coach. I’ve been in state championships and the NCAA playoffs, but none of those things compared to being able to coach my child. To this day we still talk about the things that drew us together on the court.

Did that experience help you as an athletic director?

There’s no question. It allowed me to really understand the unreachable expectations that parents can place on their kids.

And it enables me to bring a personal experience to the conversations I have with parents.

I’m able to talk them off the ledge of wanting the coach fired and discuss some attainable goals for their child and the team.

Being able to speak from the heart about parenting an athlete has turned into one of my strong suits.

Was the decision to give up coaching basketball difficult?

Decatur recently built a new gymnasium.

How were you able to secure funding for the project?

Timing was everything. It was approved in 2007, right before the economy went bad.

There was a bond the voters passed, as well as a special tax the citizens paid that went to the school for special projects. Between those two things, we were able to raise the necessary $30 million.

Decatur also replaced a beloved, but old, football stadium under your watch. How did you gain support for that project?

The old stadium was built in 1928 and lots of people in the community had an emotional tie to it. We investigated every possible renovation strategy, but at the end of the day it made more sense to tear the stadium down and build a new one.

22 APRIL/MAY APRIL/MAY 2012 2012 | |AthleticManagement.com AthleticManagement.com

One of the things we were able to do was recycle all the concrete from the old stadium and use it to build the new one. We’ve tried to be very mindful of our history in everything we do. We kept the center jump circle from the old gymnasium and started an athletic hall of fame. We want the kids today to understand they come from a great history.

The next school year will be the 100th for Decatur High School at its current location.

“If I could take one thing from my mother, it would be her ability to affect all people in the same way. As an athletic administrator in a public school setting, I work with the richest of the rich and the poorest of the poor, and I have to make sure I’ve been fair to everybody.”

It was. But now that I’m just the athletic director, I have the opportunity to get more involved in all of the sports, which has been great. Before, I basically shut down during the winter season because I was so involved with basketball. Now, with no coaching duties, I can really be a full-time athletic director.

Circle No. 113

a piece of history. But at the same time, there were no locker rooms for girls, the stadium leaked, and we couldn’t get the bathrooms up to code. I laid out the plan for why we should go ahead with a new stadium, and that calmed people down.

There was a letter to the editor in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution saying that Decatur had lost its mind with this decision. I responded with my own letter stating that I’m an alum, and the last thing I want to do is tear down

What has been the impact of the new facilities?

Not only have they impacted our teams, but also the entire city. It’s now fashionable to be at a football or basketball game. We hosted the regional basketball tournament this year and our community really stepped up to volunteer. They helped us pull off a very successful event.

Our football stadium is also now a practice site for the Chick-Fil-A Bowl, something we never could have done in the past. Our head football coaching position was open in December, and I received 117 resumes.

People are excited about the possibility of coaching in our facilities.

At a football game this past season, a parent ran onto the field during a game to protect his son, whom he felt was being pushed around by the opposing team.

How did you handle that situation?

That was the story that wouldn’t die. It was on the news here in Atlanta for at least a week. I remember going to the barber shop and getting questions from everyone there.

In a negative situation like that, the first thing you want to do is assure people that the safety and well being of the kids in the school district is the number-one priority. The

Q & A second thing is to let everyone know there is a process in place for situations like that, and that it was handled the way it should have been handled.

While it was uncomfortable to see myself on television for a week explaining our response, I think it showed the community that somebody is in charge and there is a leader. I received a number of positive comments from people in the district about the way the situation was handled.

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As a former college coach, what do you do to educate your student-athletes about the recruiting process?

I talk to them about it, but I also get other people to come in and explain the process. In December, Jack Renkens, who runs Recruiting Realities, spoke to our student-athletes. We bring in people like that, national people with a strong reputation in the recruiting process.

I think one of the key things for kids to understand is that it’s okay to play at a level other than NCAA Division I. It’s more important to play at a school where you fit rather than trying to force yourself to go to a level where you can’t achieve.

Why did you decide to get involved with the GADA? I think it’s very important for anybody in any profession to strive to achieve the highest they can. I had gone to a few conferences and felt I needed to be involved. To me, there’s nothing greater than having a seat at the table where decisions are being made.

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Circle No. 114

We just started a hall of fame for athletic directors in Georgia, and one of the great things that’s done is give me the opportunity to learn about the people who started this organization. Having the chance to learn their stories has been a real bonus for me.

Your mother had a very influential career, including helping to desegregate schools in Decatur. How has she affected your career?

She has the ability to talk to people, regardless of their socioeconomic level. We celebrated her 80th birthday in November and there were all types of people there. It’s amazing to me that one person can affect so many different people in the way she has.

If I could take one thing from her, it would be that ability—to affect all people in the same way. As an athletic administrator in a public school setting, I work with the richest of the rich and the poorest of the poor, and I have to make sure I’ve been fair to everybody.

I’ve also learned from my mother that it’s more important to be right than to win. If you’re on the right side of issues, winning and losing will take care of themselves.

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Circle No. 116

GamePlan Leadership

dan baxter

The ideal we embrace as an NCAA Division II school is to maintain a balance among scholarship, athletics, and service.

We accept no less than integrity, good sportsmanship, respectful behavior, and professional conduct from staff and athletes alike. We are very clear and consistent about expressing those expectations—right from the start.

We also explain to new hires that everyone here is valued equally. All of our athletes are important, which means that no team, player, or coach is above the rest.

We charge admission for all competitions, not just basketball and football, because it sends the message to our student-athletes that their sport is valued as much as any other. It is important that the new coach be in alignment with that attitude up front.

Confronting Coaches When a member of your coaching staff steps out of line, you can hope the problem goes away—or handle it with confidence.

By Dr. Sue Willey You witness one of your coaches being disrespectful to a student-athlete. A faculty member sends you an e-mail criticizing a coach’s sideline behavior. A coach’s quote in the local newspaper is not in line with program goals. How do you react?

Nobody likes to confront one of their staff members, but there are a slew of situations that we must deal with as athletic directors. Even in the best-run departments, conflict is inevitable.

In my 24 years as an administrator, I have found that there are two parts to handling these types of situations. The first is to minimize the likelihood of conflict through making good hires and outlining expectations. The second is to deal with problems immediately.

Ounce of Prevention As the adage goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Taking the time to hire the right coaches is critical to lessening conflicts. You need to find someone who is a good fit with your program because if it’s a bad fit, like a tight shoe, it will chafe until it blisters.

Then you will have larger issues to deal with.

Once a new coach is on board, clearly establish your expectations. One important area to go over is behavior. It can help to be really specific, such as, “Foul language is unacceptable here.”

Another topic to talk about is vision and philosophy. At the University of Indianapolis, our goal is to create a positive experience for the student-athlete.

Addressing Problems With everyone on the same page, confrontations will be lessened. But they won’t be erased. The key to handling conflict is to recognize it and confidently handle it. It’s really easy to ignore small problems and hope they go away. Experience has taught me that little issues left unattended become bigger issues.

So how do you tackle problems most effectively? Here are five guidelines that have worked well for me: Respond swiftly. Address undesirable behavior as soon as possible after you have seen it or learned about it by sitting down and talking with the coach.

Gather information. Even if you witnessed the behavior yourself, seek to learn more about the situation from other sources while maintaining a neutral, non-judgmental demeanor. Have Sue Willey, PED, is Athletic Director at the University of Indianapolis. She has served on the NCAA Division II Management Council and was honored as the NACDA Division II Central Region Athletic Director of the Year in 2010. She can be reached at: swilley@uindy.edu.

AthleticManagement.com | APRIL/MAY 2012 25

that information at the ready during your meeting but make sure you protect your sources.

Keep it private. Don’t call out an employee’s behavior in public. Set a meeting in his or her office or other private loca-

Focus on improvement. Emphasize your desire to help the employee improve, just as a coach tries to help players get better. I often say, “We’re having this discussion because I want to help you succeed in your job.” Reiterate your

Ensuring the meeting with the coach goes smoothly also entails preparing for it. Along with gathering information related to the issue at hand, take the time to consider a range of possible reactions. tion. Sometimes a restaurant works best because it can feel the least threatening.

If you normally meet with coaches in your own office, that’s fine, too.

Be respectful. Don’t barrage the coach with criticism. Stick to the issue at hand and avoid getting personal. Criticize the behavior, not the individual. Acknowledge the other’s point of view, while remaining firm in your expectations.

expectations, make constructive suggestions, and convey your belief in the employee’s ability to improve.

The Meeting Ensuring the meeting with the coach goes smoothly also entails preparing for it.

Along with gathering information related to the issue at hand, take the time to consider a range of possible reactions.

Leading Leading by example

If the coach says, “It didn’t happen that way and the situation has been overblown,” are you prepared to offer evidence to the contrary, without exposing specific sources? In other words, have you done the necessary homework to ensure that you are confident and objective in your criticism? Are you prepared to remain calm should the employee get hostile? Do you know what you will say if you have to terminate the meeting?

Think through these scenarios.

Consider the option of having another person present. This can help in very sensitive situations or when you expect a hostile response. However, be careful not to convey that you are ganging up on the employee. I always ask the coach I am meeting with if it’s okay for another person to participate in the meeting, pointing out that it might be helpful to have an additional perspective. I will sometimes ask to include another individual in the meeting as a matter of staff development—so the person can learn how to address these types of situations.

In most cases, though, you should not need a witness and the meeting can be informal, almost casual in tone. The

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Circle No. 118

GamePlan Leadership idea is that you and the coach are having a conversation about a problem you spotted or you are passing along a suggestion. You are not reprimanding the coach, but helping him or her align with program goals. It can be as simple as reminding your coach to “play nice” with the officials. Or it can be part of a conversation where you are also praising the coach for something he or she did well.

However, if the discussion does get heated—if the coach cannot see your point and becomes angry at what you are relaying—I suggest a five-minute coolingoff period. I’ve found this can remove some of the tension and help both parties re-approach the situation in a less personal way.

Whether you have a cooling-off period or not, some meetings may have to end with both parties agreeing to disagree.

There is no rule that says you both have to view the situation the same way. However, it is important that you still convey your expectations regarding attitude and behavior. Does the coach understand 100-percent what your concerns are?

The meeting should end with some discussion about follow-up. If the coach

is on board with your suggestions for improvement, your last words can be as simple as, “I’m glad we’re on the same page and I’ll let you know if I see any future problems.” If you are not confident that the coach will change, you may want to tell him or her that you are going to put together some written suggestions for improvement.

On Record Immediately after your meeting, be sure to write down what was discussed and how the session ended. Include the main points that were made as well as reactions. Note any other issues that came to light. Also document suggestions for improvement that were shared and any timeframe for follow-up. Your notes will be useful later should another situation arise.

Send a follow-up e-mail to the coach summarizing the gist of your meeting to ensure that both of you are in agreement on the discussion. Keep the note positive. If you’ve mentioned that you will provide written suggestions, do that fairly quickly.

If this is your second or third discussion with the coach about the same problem,

it’s time to produce a written document detailing your suggestions for the employee to read and sign. Set a timeframe for improvement and schedule a meeting at the end of that period for revisiting the issue. Still, you should end on a positive note, expressing confidence in the employee.

Good management requires getting the right people on the bus and the wrong people off. One surly rider can ruin the experience for everyone. If an employee is not willing to play by your rules, you may need to cut them from the team.

For me, it all comes down to this question: “Do our student-athletes deserve better?” If the answer is “yes,” then a change is necessary.

Dealing with conflict is never easy, and serious problems are a bear. It can help to remember that accepting bad behavior “to keep a coach happy” is allowing the tail to wag the dog. And that can result in a diminished student-athlete experience. An athletic department can only reach its goals if everyone involved in the program is held accountable for all their actions.

Circle No. 119 AthleticManagement.com | APRIL/MAY 2012 27

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GamePlan Progressive Programs

Many student-athletes today feel a lot of pressure from coaches, parents, and fellow classmates to perform at a high level.

They are critiqued constantly and there can be subtle pressure from parents who have invested countless hours and money in their child’s training. Attempting to obtain a college scholarship can add another layer of stress. A big part of the Life Skills program teaches athletes how to recognize and deal with this pressure.

More Than a Score There are so many life lessons to be learned in athletics. This program makes sure student-athletes are receiving them.

By Scott Garvis & Pete Wilkinson As athletic administrators, we often tout the many benefits of participating in high school sports. From learning perseverance to leadership, the opportunities are plentiful. But how do we know if these life lessons are really being taught?

We ask coaches to implement teachable moments, we ask captains to be leaders, and we ask all student-athletes to handle the pressure of being on the athletics stage. These aren’t easy things to do.

Here at Eastside Catholic High School in Sammamish, Wash., we decided that just hoping all the wonderful byproducts of athletics participation would happen wasn’t good enough. Over the past year, we have implemented a structured program to ensure that athletics is truly an extension of the classroom.

Titled “Life Skills and Leadership,” the program starts by putting coaches, parents, and student-athletes all on the

same page. Then, it provides specific learning opportunities for student-athletes in all sports. The program is led by Pete Wilkinson, a longtime coach and expert in student-athlete development, whom we hired to put together the curriculum and facilitate workshops in collaboration with the athletic department.

This type of endeavor could also be run by a teacher, community volunteer, or the athletic director.

Program Goals The overall goal of the Life Skills program is for student-athletes to get more out of their athletics participation. We want them to learn how to be better teammates, leaders, and students through enhanced communication and analytical skills. We want them to understand how to develop and maintain meaningful relationships with peers and coaches.

Another key area of the program is teaching leadership skills. Captains often have questions that they don’t know how to answer: How do I convey to my coach that one of my teammates is making poor decisions? How do I deal with teammates who are creating negative situations? How do I answer those who are questioning the offense we run?

The program also aims to create a culture of communication and trust. We all are striving for the same goals, but personalities sometimes get in the way. By furthering everyone’s communication skills, small problems don’t become crises, and we all remain on the same page. One of the most important lessons we can impart to student-athletes is how to navigate a

Scott Garvis is Senior Director of Athletics at Eastside Catholic High School in Samma­mish, Wash. He has also served as Athletic Director at Burnsville (Minn.) High School and can be reached at: sgarvis@eastsidecatholic.org.

Pete Wilkinson is Head Baseball Coach at Bellevue (Wash.) High School and founder of the Wilkinson Sports and Life Performance Academy. He has more than 45 years of experience coaching baseball and softball athletes and 20 years working in student-athlete development.

AthleticManagement.com | APRIL/MAY 2012 29

difficult situation. Learning to deal with a variety of viewpoints is really what life is all about.

Lastly, the program strives to help student-athletes deal with the questions they face in their roles. How do I respond to my parents who are upset that I didn’t play in tonight’s game? How do I deal with college recruiters? How do I talk with my coach who I feel is mad at me?

These are tough questions and studentathletes are often left confused and frustrated, which can lead to undue stress and burnout—or an unsatisfying high school athletic experience. It can also lead to destructive parent involvement and a negative team dynamic.

With these goals, we found it was not difficult to convince academic administrators to implement the program. We presented the proposal as a plan to reach students within our school community through athletics, since about 70 percent of our school population participates in at least one sport. It turned out to be an easy sell to our president, Sister Mary Tracy. She is very supportive of athletics and views the work we do as an extension of the academic classroom.

A big question was how to cover the costs of hiring a leadership consultant.

We did some creative financing with our salary schedule and were able to use a coach’s stipend. In the past I have also instituted the help of local banks and community service organizations to fund leadership programming.

This is such an important issue that many times is over looked due to constrained budgets. But we really need to invest fiscally in the development of our studentathletes to further our programs.

How It Works The first step in implementing the program involves mentoring coaches.

Through periodic meetings, we cover several topics that we feel are critical in helping them be outstanding coacheducators, such as vision, covenants and expectations, standards, and communication. In those topic areas, we talk about instruction, coaching and mentoring, and developing leaders. This has led to discussions on expectations, bringing transparency to their programs, team building, and creating approaches to solving problems.

We also stress to coaches the importance of having an open door with their student-athletes. A key part of the program is communication, so each coach must make sure athletes feel comfortable coming to them to talk about anything. And coaches must also embrace their role of mentoring athletes through any difficult discussions.

Second, we talk with parents at the beginning of each season about the art of parenting high school student-athletes. We discuss what exactly should belong to the parent (health and safety) and what should be restricted to the athletes (performance and playing time).

Other topics have centered on the team experience and appropriate vs. inappropriate behaviors.

In implementing the curriculum for the student-athletes, we provide a lot of flexibility so the program can work for each individual team. First, coaches can choose among three general delivery methods.

One is weekly meetings with teams, another is using a weekend seminar model, and our third option is splitting the program into three sessions: preseason, mid-season, and postseason.

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GamePlan Progressive Programs Most of our teams choose the weekly meeting model, and we provide three options there. The first provides overall skills for the student-athletes following a set curriculum. Topics covered include: n

n

n

n

n n

Understanding and building fundamental thinking skills.

How to use imagination and self talk to expand comfort zones.

How to compete and cooperate with ourselves regarding athletic, academic, and life performance.

How to build confidence and use it in areas apart from athletics.

How to formulate and commit to goals.

How to balance all that student-athletes have going on in their lives and how to avoid burnout.

n

How to gain command of their lives.

n

How to lead.

n

Building a working definition of “winning.”

In the second option for weekly meetings, coaches choose a weekly topic that relates to situations they are currently facing. This can include areas like: maintaining focus after a big win; rebounding

from a tough or blow-out defeat; preparing for an especially important game; rebuilding confidence after a particularly poor individual or team performance; finishing the close game by maintaining composure, intention, and direction.

A third option focuses on specific preparation for “big” games and/or sections of the season. Here, we discuss individual respect, understanding choices, and getting a higher level result for the group. We focus on solving problems at higher solution levels rather than lowest common denominator thinking. We talk about how each individual’s choices impact the team.

In each of the three options, during the discussions, we ask students to answer specific questions relating to their own experiences so they can make a connection to their own lives. We have tried to relate topics to actual situations athletes face and to the maturity levels of the athletes in the group. To do this, we brief and debrief with the coaches on both ends of the meeting.

A final area of the program involves extra training for members of our Student

Athletic Advisory Council, which contains captains and team leaders. They attend a weekly meeting where we discuss topics involving the curriculum and how that relates to their positions as team leaders.

We also kicked off the Life Skills program by having our advisory council athletes attend a coaches and captains conference. They learned the benefits of taking ownership of their team and how to lead by serving others. This had a profound effect on our teams. Our captains and coaches had the opportunity to discuss what they wanted their seasons to look like and how they were going to effectively communicate that to their teams.

Overall, the best part about the program is that it gets student-athletes to really think and talk about their experiences and how to make the most of them. This is leading them to build more meaningful relationships with their coaches and each other, which bolsters team unity. It is also teaching them to be less fearful about communication and helping them discover their own individual value to the group. We have seen many benefits, and it has been fantastic to watch the studentathletes grow through the program.

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COVER STORY

By Mike Phelps

n the field, the University of California baseball team had a storybook season in 2011. The squad won six straight games during the first two rounds of the NCAA Division I playoffs, advancing to the College World Series for the first time since 1992. The only Pac10 team at the CWS, Cal finished fifth, and Head Coach David Esquer won national coach of the year honors.

The off-field story was even more remarkable. Just five months before the first pitch was thrown, the team was told the 2011 season would be its last. As part of an effort to deal with funding cuts resulting from statewide budget shortfalls, Cal was eliminating five sports from its offerings, including baseball.

The news was not taken lying down. A massive fundraising effort led by former Cal pitcher Stu Gordon and numerous other supporters brought in about $9 million for baseball and $18 million total. Baseball

was saved, along with the other threatened sports—men’s and women’s gymnastics, women’s lacrosse, and rugby.

While Cal’s turnaround baseball season was unique, its funding woes are not.

As budgets are cut to the bone, more and more schools—at both the college and high school levels—are looking at a new option in paying for their athletic programs: selffunded teams.

FUNDING MODELS

The term “self-funded” can mean somewhat different things in different programs.

Generally it refers to a team that is no longer provided operating expenses by the athletic department. The squad must find its own sources of funding, but unlike a club team it is still a varsity program overseen by the athletic director.

At the college level, self-funding usually means massive fundraising campaigns, primarily targeting alumni athletes and community members. Sandy Barbour, Athletic Director at California, says the key to such

When athletic departments can no longer financially support one or more teams, they are turning to donors and community members to save the day. Here’s how to make a pitch for a self-funded program.

The University of California baseball team was slated to be cut last year before alumni and other donors formed the Cal Baseball Foundation, a non-profit organization that raises money and disperses funds for the squad.

The team responded with a run to the College World Series.

PHOTO BY MICHAEL J. BURNS

COVER STORY

an undertaking is to provide leadership and support, then stand back and let the volunteers take over.

“Certainly, I was in a difficult spot last fall because of the financial decisions that had been made,” she says. “But that was actually the beauty of the situation. The decisions were based only on finances. So I had the opportunity to stand up and say to our community, ‘We would love to have these five sports as part of our offerings, and if you’re able to bring together the resources, we will welcome them with open arms.’

“The leadership has to provide a vision and motivation for growth and success,” she continues. “It would be hard for these folks to be motivated if they felt their efforts would not be welcomed by the department.”

At the same time, Barbour made it clear that the University could not be involved with the fundraising efforts. “We had very ambitious fundraising goals that didn’t include raising money for these five sports,”

she says. “It was only going to work if there was a motivated and passionate volunteer group willing to put in a lot of time and effort—to rattle the cages, do grassroots campaigns, and make the case for the sport.

This type of fundraising doesn’t happen with a five-person, or even a 15-person, effort. It takes that critical mass of community to get people fired up.”

Going forward, Barbour envisions the collaboration between the athletic department and individual sport support groups continuing. The baseball team, for example, has set up the Cal Baseball Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization to collect and disperse funds for the squad. The ultimate goal is to bring in enough money to start endowment funds.

“I’d like to think it will be a cooperative effort to create a sustainable financial model,” Barbour says. “The community provides the troops and the effort, and the development department offers research, best practices, and some professional guidance and strategy. And all along, you’re prospecting for endowment gift candidates.”

Using endowments as a long-term fund-

ing model has worked well at Cornell University. Eleven of the department’s 36 teams are self-funded—men’s and women’s polo, sprint football, baseball, men’s and women’s squash, men’s golf, men’s and women’s tennis, women’s equestrian, and men’s lightweight rowing—and it has been this way for more than 15 years. The school primarily targets student-athlete alumni for donations, focusing on endowment gifts.

“To be a successful self-funded program here, teams need healthy endowments that generate a sufficient number of dollars each year,” says Larry Quant, Associate Director of Athletics for Financial Operations at Cornell. “Two sports that have done well are baseball and sprint football and it is mainly a function of the numbers—both teams have large alumni bases. Sprint football, for example, has 60 athletes on the team each year, so they have more available donors than sports with smaller rosters.”

Along with building endowments for these sports, Cornell funds the programs with annual gifts. Unlike California, the athletics development staff at Cornell handles the fundraising. “We have people on staff

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who fundraise, but we don’t ask coaches to do so,” Quant says. “What we do ask of coaches is that they maintain good relations with alumni and keep them updated on

on tapping parents and the community in a number of ways.

In the Juniata County (Pa.) School District, nearly all athletic funding for 2011-12 was cut to help offset a budget crunch caused by a reduction in state education budgets. Rod Hart, Athletic Director at East Juniata High School, and Jerry Auker, Athletic Director at Juniata High School, came up with a plan to ensure that athletics continued through selffunding. It includes participation fees, team fundraising, and bringing in money through admissions fees and concessions.

The school district took responsibility for collecting the studentathlete fees, and used that money to pay half of coaches’ salaries and all game officials’ stipends. Team booster clubs were then responsible for raising the money for everything else, including transportation, equipment, and the other half of the coaching salaries.

Hart and Auker decided that if a sport could not pay its bills, the season would be forfeited and there would be discussion about either

Student-athletes joined the radio hosts to talk about the importance of high school sports ... the event raised $25,000. the team’s progress. It’s important to keep people feeling like they’re in the loop to sustain interest in the program.”

HIGH SCHOOL STRATEGIES

While asking alumni to give back to their sports can work well at the college level, self-funded high school teams usually take a different route. Their strategies focus more

creating a co-op with the other high school or totally eliminating the sport.

“Under the new participation fee, each kid, no matter how many sports they want to play in a year, must pay $250 per sport,” Hart says. “We also included language for different circumstances—if an athlete quits, he or she is not reimbursed any of their $250, but if an injury occurs, a prorated reimbursement is given.”

Beyond participation fees, East Juniata has begun charging admission for more sports than ever before, including junior high school contests. “We also eliminated discounted tickets for students and free passes for senior citizens,” Hart says. “I made sure to communicate that information well in advance so there wouldn’t be any surprises when fans showed up to the game. There were a few people who were upset, but once we explained that this money is necessary for these sports to exist, our fans were very understanding.”

Teams have also been fundraising, with one of the most successful ventures being the East Juniata softball team hosting a large tournament this past fall, which raised money through entry fees and concessions.

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COVER STORY

“Our softball coach had teams coming in from other states to play and raised almost $10,000, which is his entire budget for the spring,” Hart says. “He showed a lot of initiative and ingenuity in getting the tournament set up and he did a phenomenal job.

I’m hoping other sports can think outside the box and do things like that.”

While there was some initial uneasiness when the changes were announced last summer, Hart says self-funding has gone about as well as he could have hoped. “At first, the booster clubs panicked and they were selling everything under the sun to make money,” he says. “People were worrying that they wouldn’t be able to generate enough funds to operate. But as the school year has gone on, most of the sports have found that their gate admissions and concessions stands have done far better than what they ever imagined, and a lot of sports are actually building up a surplus.”

In the Duval County (Fla.) School District, a $90 million budget shortage announced in May 2011 threatened to eliminate 10 of the district’s sports: boys’ and girls’ cross country, boys’ and girls’ golf, boys’ and girls’ lacrosse,

boys’ and girls’ tennis, slow-pitch softball, and wrestling. Fortunately for student-athletes in the district, a community-wide fundraising drive, combined with cost-saving measures­, such as eliminating some assistant coaching positions, netted more than $500,000, enough to restore all of the teams before the school year began.

Each affected sport at the district’s 17 high schools was responsible for fundraising together as a group, and Duval County Athletic Director Jon Fox helped find leaders for each. For example, someone who worked with the North Florida Junior PGA Tour helped lead the golf teams, and the wrestling group was headed up by the local wrestling officials’ association. Fox worked with each sport, attended their meetings, and helped plan fundraising activities.

A big part of the fundraising entailed asking for donations from community members. To help kick-off the drive, the school district partnered with a local sports talk radio station for a full day of fundraising. Fox, coaches, and student-athletes from every affected sport joined the radio hosts to talk about the importance of high school

sports, while parents manned the phone banks. Listeners could pledge money to a specific sport or a general fund, and the district raised about $25,000.

“It was a great way to begin the effort,” Fox says. “It gave us the opportunity to have people from all the teams and all the schools in one place and have them work together.”

Individual teams also had success with their own fundraisers. For example, the 17 boys’ and girls’ cross country teams in Duval County worked with Doug Alred, owner of 1st Place Sports, a chain of running stores in the state, on a two-prong effort. The first piece was holding community races, including a 5K Stadium Challenge, held at EverBank Field, home of the NFL’s Jacksonville Jaguars.

The course led runners around the stadium, up and down the ramps connecting different seating areas, and through concourse areas.

The event attracted 1,500 runners and generated $50,000 through entry fees.

The second part of the strategy was soliciting donations. Alred used his company’s Facebook page and e-mail list to spread the message, and soon donations from $20 to $15,000 started streaming in.

Circle No. 129 AthleticManagement.com | APRIL/MAY 2012 37

WHO’S IN CONTROL?

While raising enough money is the immediate concern when teams become selffunded, it’s also critical to think about administrative and leadership issues. One problem that often crops up is oversight. If parents, donors, or a booster club are fully footing the bill for a team, they might want control over the inner workings of the program.

At Cal, Barbour has found herself willing to give the Baseball Foundation a voice.

“It’s still the University of California baseball 38 APRIL/MAY 2012 | AthleticManagement.com

program within the Cal athletics department and there are certain things that are expected of each of our programs in terms of policies,” she says. “But there’s no doubt the Cal Baseball Foundation deserves a seat at the table.

We’ve talked about that in terms of filling an advisory role and letting them look over the books.

“Ultimately the decisions remain with the university, but there are a lot of smart people who are part of the Cal Baseball Foundation, and they’re singularly thinking about how to make Cal baseball financially sustainable,” Barbour continues. “They have

S

the opportunity to offer ideas for improving some of our revenue streams.”

At Mechanicsburg (Pa.) High School, which has self-funded boys’ lacrosse and boys’ and girls’ water polo teams, Athletic Director Andrea Teeter weighs the feelings of parents of the self-funded teams heavily when picking coaches for those squads. “We just recently hired a new lacrosse coach, and the booster club was involved in the hiring process,” she says. “I wanted to make sure the coach we picked was someone they could work with. The booster parents are more or less paying for the team, and if everybody in

elf-funded sports teams at Cornell University are nothing new. More than 15 years ago, the athletic department decided to make 11 sports self-funded, with the teams’ expenses limited to the revenue they were able to generate. Now, Cornell is in the midst of an initiative to make those 11 programs self-sufficient within the next four years. What’s the difference?

“Previously, when we said teams were self-funded, it meant they were covering their direct costs, such as travel, equipment, uniforms, office supplies, and all that,” says Larry Quant, Cornell’s Associate Director of Athletics for Financial Operations. “We had never allocated indirect costs to them for things like media relations, strength and conditioning, the compliance office, or even the overall administration of the department. But those are costs that we incur, and we are now asking the teams to cover them.”

To determine how much to charge for indirect costs, Cornell came up with a formula. “There are two parts to it,” Quant says. “One is an objective measurement. We know what it costs the athletic department to run our compliance program, for example. We take that number and then divide it by the total number of teams in the department.

“The second part is a subjective component, because not all of our sports use all of our services equally,” he continues. “For example, football makes full use of the strength and conditioning program, but polo probably does not. So for every unit (strength and conditioning, media relations, etc.), we assign each sport a number between zero and one, in increments of 0.2. One means they receive full service from that unit, and zero means they receive nothing. Then we calculate how much cost to attribute to each sport and multiply it by that factor.”

Mechanicsburg (Pa.) High School, which has self-funded teams in three sports, debated whether to include indirect expenses before ultimately deciding against it. “Anything that is outside the scope of the athletic office as far as officials, transportation, coaching salaries, and security is billed to the booster club,” says Athletic Director Andrea Teeter. “But we decided to let the teams use our facilities at no charge, and we don’t submit a bill for the services of myself or the athletic trainer. It is a sign of good faith from the school.”

self-sufficient

The district’s tennis teams raised around $20,000 by hosting a clinic featuring four professional players: Todd Martin, Mal Washington, Brian Gottfried, and Amer Delic.

After morning and afternoon clinic sessions, the pros came in during the evening to do a demonstration and play a match.

“The teams also did all the smaller, traditional things that you might expect,” says Fox. “They sold pizzas, held raffles, and put on silent auctions.”

Because certain sports have more community support than others, Fox took steps to ensure each one had an equal chance of staving off elimination. Some of the money raised, like from the radio drive, went into a big pot, and it was okay if a few sports dipped into the pot more than others.

He also emphasized to the community the importance of helping every program.

“I tried to make a strong point about how every sport is vitally important to the athletes who participate in it,” he says. “It doesn’t matter what the sport is. If that’s your sport, it means just as much to you and your life as the kids in a different sport.”

To further that point—and also alleviate any Title IX concerns—Fox gave each team a “partner” in the fundraising fight. “For example, if tennis came back, it was coming back as a whole—boys and girls,” he says.

“For wrestling, which doesn’t have a female counterpart, we matched it up with slowpitch softball, a team with almost identical participation numbers.

“It ended up being a beautiful thing,” Fox continues. “There were kids from different sports and different schools working together. That’s one of those invaluable lessons that we didn’t really see from the onset.

I think many of those relationships that were formed continue to exist.”

Going forward, Fox expects many of the more successful fundraisers, like the radio drive, 5K Stadium Challenge, and tennis clinic, to continue. The district will also implement participation fees, and it is in the process of setting up a foundation where teams could go and request funds for a specific need.

COVER STORY

the club hates the coach, they might not be as willing to fundraise.”

Teeter has also provided the Mechanicsburg boosters with a look at the athletic department’s inner workings. “They always have questions about how the schedule is made and how transportation works,” she says. “So I’ve shown them why and how things work the way they do.”

In other areas, though, Teeter has had to rein boosters in. “Sometimes they don’t understand that they have to follow school rules,” she says. “Our district limits our booster clubs to three fundraisers per year, but parents think those rules don’t apply because they’re funding the team themselves. Parents have also wanted to purchase new uniforms every year, since they’re paying for it. But our policy is to have a five-year rotation on uniforms, and they have to comply with that.”

Boosters have received a bit more control at East Juniata, too, and Hart says it’s worked out well. “One coach told me he likes it better now,” Hart says. “He’s looking at buying new uniforms, and now he doesn’t have to go through the district, take the low bid, and wait to see what a bean counter in some office says. The coach can find something he likes, talk to the boosters, and purchase them.”

Next year, Hart is hoping to give the coaches and boosters a little more ownership, in the form of determining the fee they’d like to charge. “I want to eliminate having one set price,” he says. “Maybe the golf team only needs $50 per athlete, but the football team needs $300, so let the boosters set that.”

However, Hart is still in charge of scheduling, hiring coaches, and other administrative decisions, and he made this clear at the start of the school year through a meeting. He also explained there would be some hard and fast rules all teams need to stick to.

“There was a football coach who wanted to hold a practice on Sunday, but there is a school policy against that,” Hart says. “He argued that the kids paid their fees, the school doesn’t have anything to do with it anymore, and they should be able to hold practices whenever they wanted. I needed to explain to him that we still had to follow school rules.”

IN IT TOGETHER

Keeping rules consistent across school- and self-funded teams will also go a long way in maintaining a sense of community in the department. “Overall, we don’t segregate these programs,” says Quant. “We don’t state at every opportunity that these are our self-funded teams. We don’t deny it, but as far as we’re concerned, they’re 11 of our 36 sports and we try not to have that factor into decisions we make on scheduling and facilities. Really, the

only time there’s any distinction is when we’re prepping a budget. We work hard to not make them feel like second-class citizens.”

The same is true at Cal. “We don’t draw lines between the sports based on how they’re funded,” says Barbour. “One way I look at it is that we’ve always had a disparity. Men’s golf has been self-supporting for a while, and football and men’s basketball pay for themselves, then everybody else is somewhere in between. Some programs receive more funding than others. Some have better fundraising capabilities. Some have more potential for

commercial income. So we’ve always had some differences. Self-funding is just more stark because it’s completely at one end of the continuum.”

And, in some ways, the differences among sports at Cal were also forgotten when it came to saving them. “The beauty of it all was that even people who didn’t have a particular affinity for one of the five affected sports supported the effort because they believed in having participation opportunities for our athletes,” Barbour says. “That says a lot to me and was very heartening to see.” n

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LEADERSHIP

L

ook! It’s a bird!

It’s a plane! No, it’s an athletic director buzzing around at warp speed trying to get 300 things done in an afternoon. While no one calls us Superman, some days we do need to perform like action heroes.

Our super powers often include identity changes, too, since many of us transform from a teacher or assistant principal into an athletic director when the school bell rings.

We need to be good at working with kids, mentoring coaches, handling administrative tasks, communicating, and relating with parents—all at the same time.

So how should a multi-talented, hard-

working person with an impossible job be evaluated? Super heroes don’t usually get performance reviews. And with each school being a little different from the next, there is no one-size-fits-all evaluation tool for every athletic director in America.

However, if we strive to be great at what we do and want our athletic program to be the best it can be, we need to embrace

How Am I Doing?

Becoming a successful athletic director doesn’t happen without getting meaningful feedback from others. And those “others” should include parents and coaches.

JEAN HIN/illustrationsource.com

By Kevin Bryant

AthleticManagement.com | APRIL/MAY 2012 41

LEADERSHIP

a meaningful evaluation each and every year—whether our school requires one or not. We need to initiate and develop the process in a way that elevates our effectiveness. Harry Truman said it best: “Men [and women] make history and not the other way around. In periods where there is no leadership, society stands still. Progress occurs when courageous, skillful leaders seize the opportunity to change things for the better.”

WHY DO IT?

One result of the intense schedule, daily demands, and personal energy required of today’s athletic administrators is that we

Along with providing me a meaningful evaluation, the process showed my head coaches their feedback was important to me, which ... created trust and synergy in our department. I was being evaluated, they were being evaluated, and everyone understood it as a positive process. can be resistant to evaluation. The reasons may vary but usually center on the following factors: > This is a unique (and lonely) position.

No one really understands what I do. > The person evaluating me most likely has never done this job. > I am expected to do an administrative job and work administrative hours while being paid as a teacher. > There are so many expectations from different constituencies (parents, teachers, students, community, etc.) it is hard to determine the objectives of the position and know who to listen to.

Kevin Bryant, CMAA, is Vice President for Advancement and External Relations at Warner Pacific College and the former Associate Principal for Athletics and Activities at Tigard (Ore.) High School, as well as Athletic Director at Aloha High School in Beaverton, Ore. A past President of the Oregon Athletic Directors Association, he was named the group’s 2005 Athletic Director of the Year, and he has received an NIAAA Distinguished Service Award and NFHS Citation.

He can be reached at: KMBryant@warnerpacific.edu.

42 APRIL/MAY 2012 | AthleticManagement.com

> I am unable to perform this full-time job in the half-time or less given to me to do it. Why should I be evaluated like I am a full-time administrator?

All of the above excuses for resisting an evaluation make sense. But they are still excuses. The “courageous, skillful” leadership Truman talked about begins with our willingness to be evaluated yearly in a meaningful way. Here are other reasons why it’s so important: > We evaluate our coaching staff every year. How do we continue this process with integrity if we are not evaluated ourselves? > We demand that coaches give meaningful feedback to their student-athletes in practices and games. We need to respect and embrace this process by being open to our own evaluation. > Our unwillingness to be evaluated shouts to our community that we are above it all. As those who lead others, we ought to be the first to be evaluated as an example to all. > How do we get better if we are not getting constructive feedback from others? Shouldn’t we hunger to continually improve in this amazing profession?

TAKING THE INITIATIVE

Following my first year as Athletic Director at Aloha High School in Beaverton, Ore., I constructed an evaluation based on my job description and what I felt was important to being a great athletic director. I handed it out to my head coaches and other people connected to our athletic program whose input I valued. I gave them the freedom to sign their names or not and to give it back to me directly or through the principal.

After compiling the responses, I sat down with my principal to review the results. I used the meeting as a way to begin a constructive conversation about how effective I was (or was not) in the position over the past year and what I could do better.

I took the initiative to be evaluated for several reasons. First, I truly wanted to be the best athletic director possible for my coaching staff and our student-athletes. I felt that I could not accomplish this without receiving feedback from those I was serving on a daily basis.

Second, I wanted meaningful feedback from my direct supervisor. Since this person had never coached or served as an athletic administrator, I felt it would get us on the

same page if I relayed to her what I saw as important to my progress, success, and overall responsibilities.

Lastly, at that time it was critical to build a sense of community in our athletic program.

We had just weathered the opening of two new high schools in our area that took away more than 50 percent of the top students in our school and had a significant impact on our school’s socio-economic balance.

If I was ever going to be a part of unifying the community around Aloha High School and our athletic program I needed to be open to hearing from all corners of our community. By asking coaches and community members for their feedback, there is a feeling that we’re all in this together. I had learned from past experience that people support what they help to create. There is a buy-in that motivates people to work harder toward their overall goals.

I challenged myself with this question: “Am I a big enough person that I am willing to hear from many people about the job I am doing?” I was convinced that I needed to be evaluated to build trust with all constituents of our program and to be my very best.

The first year went well. My staff was surprised and also appreciated that I asked for their feedback, and I found their responses helpful. Also important, the survey allowed my supervisor to see my position in a broader sense. Her initial evaluation of me centered on rules and regulations, and the survey tool I had constructed showed her the bigger perspective of the position.

I continued to hand out the evaluation in subsequent years, always closely examining the feedback and sharing it with my principal. I used the responses to figure out how to improve in areas from scheduling to working with boosters.

Along with providing me a meaningful evaluation, one of the best things about this process was that it showed my head coaches their feedback was important to me, which opened up lines of communication. It gave them permission to speak honestly about what they saw, and that resulted in many great conversations. It also helped to create trust and synergy in our department. I was being evaluated, they were being evaluated, and everyone understood it as a positive process. To bring this idea home, during their evaluations each year I would ask, “Is there anything you want to share with me that could help me do a better job serving you?”

AREAS TO EVALUATE

I continued to refine the review process through my years as an athletic director. The

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most important thing I Iearned is that you have to start by knowing your goals. What are the most important aspects of the job that I should get feedback on? The following are the five areas I deemed most critical:

mal conversations, or a combination of all these tools.

2. How are our coaches performing?

Most school districts spend more than 80 percent of their budgets on personnel. Who we hire and how they impact our student-athletes is the single most important factor related to studentathlete success. As athletic director, am I hiring the best people possible and am I mentoring them well, providing them with yearly, meaningful evaluations?

3. Is the department running efficiently and effectively? Are all forms and paperwork filled out accurately and on time? Am I making the most of scheduling opportunities, especially with non-league opponents? How am I doing with managing officials, pregame operations personnel, and team transportation?

4. How are our facilities? Am I diligent in making sure they are safe and of comparable quality to our league opponents?

5. How are our department finances?

Are the department expenses coming in on

As I processed what happened, I admitted to myself that I just received some feedback, informal as it was, that I did not like. Now what was I going to do with it?

1. What is the quality of the experience our student-athletes are receiving? Does it match our mission, vision, and value statements? If, in fact, athletics is about teaching life skills to student-athletes, are we accomplishing this at our school? Evaluating this can happen through a survey at the end of each season, senior exit interviews, infor-

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Along with the formal evaluation process described above, feedback also happens each day in informal ways. As a coach or parent, I might describe these as teach-

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or under budget? Am I raising enough funds and working well with the booster club(s)?

From those five goal areas, I came up with a list of 35 job responsibilities I wanted to receive feedback on. I listed them on a two-page form, where respondents could rate me in each area on a scale of 1-5 (which corresponded with great, good, average, below average, or needs improvement) and also add comments. Underneath the list, there were four open-ended questions that required people to write responses. (A closer look at the evaluation instrument is on page 46.)

Some of the feedback entailed small things, like needing better details on the bus schedule, which I then worked to implement. For the questions that focused on my supervision and style, I tried to look at all of the responses together and come up with personal goals for being a better leader.

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At New hl S eti e c M rvi an ce F ag ro em m en t

able moments. As an athletic administrator, I might describe them as criticism.

we oversee. It is easy to take offense to this and blow it off. Because most folks don’t understand the wide range of skills needed, the amount of time required, and the passion and energy expended to do this job well, it’s hard to imagine they can help us.

But when we ignore this informal feedback, we miss out on some of the most honest, clear, and concise ideas we will ever receive. Unsolicited advice can be seen as unwarranted criticism or as a valuable resource we can use to improve.

One day I was working in my office and most likely grousing to myself about working administrative hours but receiving teacher pay or being unable to make big picture changes in our program

because I spent 50 percent of my time doing paperwork. A head coach came by the office without an appointment and wanted to talk.

I was busy. I kept working on the five things I was doing while trying to hold a “conversation” with this head coach. When I finally made eye contact, she glared at me and said, “You are a terrible listener.”

She then had my undivided attention.

I sat up—fired up and angry—listening to her share her needs. I already had my argument ready: “You don’t know how hard I work. You don’t know the long hours I put in.” Fortunately, I did not make the situation worse by saying that and instead actually listened to her.

As she left and I processed what happened, I admitted to myself that I just received some feedback, informal as it was, that I did not like. Now what was I going to do with it?

I realized that I did not take her seriously,

One of the most powerful lessons on leadership and informal evaluation in my life came from an assistant boys’ basketball coach during a preseason coaches’ meeting ... He asked, “Why do we do this anyway?”

Most athletic administrators hear almost constant feedback from all corners. Suggestions are lobbed our way at the grocery store, gas station, movie theater, or any event

The following are the tasks that I asked coaches and parents to judge me on as an athletic director. >

Student-athlete eligibility issues

>

Managing playoff information

>

>

Facility leadership/vision

>

>

State association issues/information

Representing the school to the league

Monitoring academic achievement of athletes

>

Award winners

Assisting with out-of-school groups using the facilities

>

Forms/paperwork

>

>

Coaches meetings/workshops

Managing facility usage among school groups

>

Communication with coaches, parents, and students

> >

Academic issues involving athletics Facility maintenance

>

>

Recruitment of coaches

>

Set up/game management

>

Relationship with P.E. department

>

>

Meet management/workers

>

Relationship with the athletic trainer/ team doctor

>

Crowd control at games/events

Liaison to community recreation department

>

Budget management

Relationship with game officials and their commissioners

>

Liaison to booster club

>

>

Athletic supplies/repair of equipment

Liaison to community

>

>

Scheduling

>

Relationship with administration

Dealing with the media

>

>

Relationship with custodians

>

Master schedules for school use

Supervision of home and away games

>

Rescheduling postponed games

>

Training rules/consequences

>

Management of coaches’ fundraising efforts

>

The survey also included four open-ended questions, with space for answers: 1. The above list contains pieces of the job description for the Athletic Director position. Beyond the areas listed above, did you get what you needed from the Athletic Director this year?

2. In your experience, what was the greatest strength of your Athletic Director this year?

effective for you, your colleagues, and your school community?

3. What would be an area or two that you would like to see the Athletic Director grow in to become more

4. Do you have “unfinished business” or issues or problems that you want to discuss as the year ends and a new year begins?

CRITERIA 46 APRIL/MAY 2012 | AthleticManagement.com

LEADERSHIP

and I had not focused on her needs. After that experience, when a coach, student-athlete, teacher, or parent came by, I stopped what I was doing and gave them my full attention. To make time for focusing on people and their needs, I ended up asking a couple of parents to come help me with simple paperwork.

This change made me a better person, father, husband, and athletic administrator.

The coach who spoke her mind helped me improve because I was willing to hear her criticism.

These teachable moments come daily.

They come from people we have worked with for years and from people we don’t know at all. If we are open to growing and to doing our best we must not see these comments as enemies but welcome them as friends. We must be able to grow thicker skin, see feed-

back as positive not negative, and want to improve each day.

One of the most powerful lessons on leadership and informal evaluation in my life came from an assistant boys’ basketball coach during a preseason coaches’ meeting at Aloha. We were just finishing our laundry list of 28 things we go over prior to each season and we came to the part that said “Questions.” I was anticipating clarifying questions, or time and date questions, but not what this coach said. He raised his hand and when called upon asked, “Why do we do this anyway?”

I tried to clarify the question. “Do you mean, ‘Why do we have this meeting?’”

He replied, “No. Why do we have sports?”

The question stunned me. I did not have an answer. I walked away from the meeting with a gnawing feeling in my stomach.

I chewed on the question for a couple of weeks and talked to my veteran coaches.

Then, I formed a community-wide committee to determine an answer. I am so glad this question was asked and that I had the courage to try to answer it. It set Aloha athletics on a great course for lasting success.

My hope is that each of you will have the self motivation to get better at your current position. Your hunger to improve and be your very best will be the most significant factor in the overall success of your program.

Coaches, parents, and student-athletes get better when they observe caring and dedicated work coming from those who lead them. I can’t think of a better profession to impact a community than that of the high school athletic administrator. And someone, someday, might just recognize us as super heroes. n

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MARKETING

e n O t i m d A On Sale Now

Using strategic partnerships and online technology, athletic departments are coming up with innovative new ideas for selling and distributing game tickets.

O

f all the athletic department functions that don’t directly relate to student-athletes, one of the biggest is tickets. From marketing to selling to distributing tickets, there are many steps, all of which are critical for robust sales.

In this article, we take a look at some exciting and new ideas in ticket sales. For a high school, this entailed moving the process online. At the college level, one school is experimenting with dynamic pricing and another is promoting and packaging its tickets on a separate Web site devoted to customer service.

AthleticManagement.com | APRIL/MAY 2012 51

Dynamic Pricing

By Jim Louk Jim Louk is Assistant Director of Athletics for Sales and Broadcasting at the University of South Florida, where he has worked since 1983. He heads up all season and group ticket sales for USF Athletics and can be reached at: louk@usf.edu as well as followed on Twitter: @USFjimlouk.

Over the past two years, professional sports teams have increasingly implemented dynamic pricing for singlegame tickets. This allows an organization to continually change ticket prices in order to get the most out of sales for each particular contest. During this past football season, the University of South Florida Athletics Department became one of the first colleges to give the idea a try.

Dynamic pricing is designed to maximize revenue and establish a fair market value for tickets. Dozens of factors are con-

“When you have a revenue opportunity, you can’t leave anything on the table. You only have six or seven home football games per year. You have to put everything under a microscope.” sidered in choosing the ticket price for a game, including the day of the week, opponent, win-loss records, market economy, weather, and much more. A comprehensive study of those issues leads to suggested adjustments in ticket prices—either up or down—designed to maximize revenue.

“Once I saw that dynamic pricing was having success in Major League Baseball and the NHL, it made me want to dig a little deeper to see if it would work in college athletics,” says USF Associate Athletic Director Ayo Taylor-Dixon. “Our goal was to optimally price tickets, sell them for fair market value, and collect data to help us understand our market better.”

That thought led to USF becoming the first college client of Digonex, a company that offers pricing solutions through several different products. Once the deal with Digonex was completed, the process of data sharing began between three principals: USF, Digonex, and Ticketmaster. (USF Athletics is a Ticketmaster client, using the Archtics system.)

52 APRIL/MAY 2012 | AthleticManagement.com

“It is a lot of work on the front end in getting the system set up,” says USF Assistant Athletic Director for Ticket Operations Colin Hargis. “We submitted every price and every price code to Digonex so they had a master list of every possible price point. Then we gave Ticketmaster a list of every potential dynamic price. But once the system is built, it’s a very quick and efficient process to make the price changes.”

USF receives multiple pricing suggestions from Digonex as game day gets closer—typically altering the price around one dollar up or down. Each suggestion is reviewed by USF, which has the option to make the change or not.

For example, when the USF football team hosted the University of Miami this fall in a cross-state rivalry game, demand for tickets steadily increased in the days before the game. The fan bases were energized and the weather forecast was promising.

Digonex submitted suggested pricing adjustments to USF via e-mail twice per week. The reports advised keeping prices in certain sections of the stadium steady and increasing prices in other areas. USF watched seat inventory and sales patterns and accepted most of the recommendations, adjusting prices moderately upward in some areas and making no changes in others.

Making these kinds of constant changes can feel like walking on a high wire for administrators used to setting one price and leaving it the same for the whole season. “We started off gradually, by accepting a single recommendation or two as sort of a test,” says Taylor-Dixon. “That worked and we went from there. A lot of it is simply having some good data from economists who are smarter than we are—they analyze the supply and demand with real time data.”

Depending on how many dynamic pricing recommendations are accepted, singlegame ticket prices can change many times in the days leading up to a game. As a result, USF has tailored much of its single-game ticket advertising away from listing specific prices. Instead, advertisements say “tickets start as low as …” and buyers are directed to the athletics Web site. The marketing becomes a bit more product-based than price-driven. The belief is that the proper dynamic price will seal the deal when the buyer is ready to act.

The Tampa Bay area has been hit hard in the recent economic downturn, making precise pricing even more important. For USF prices that are too low and fail to bring in the maximum revenue can be as ruinous to the bottom line as prices that are too

high and result in not enough buyers being enticed to purchase. In a college football season consisting of a limited number of home games, there are only so many opportunities to get it right.

“When you have a revenue opportunity, you can’t leave anything on the table,” says Taylor-Dixon. “You only have six or seven home football games per year. You have to put everything under a microscope.”

USF has been pleased with the results so far. “The recommendations that we have gotten have been spot on, and it’s been a positive in terms of revenue generation,” Taylor-Dixon says. “It also helps us understand the market and gives us a history of all the different things that are happening—such as weather, game day, and game time—that affect the number of people attending.

“A lot of us have set our prices by just looking at what we did last year, or what the other guy is doing,” he continues. “Now, we have some hard data.”

The school’s fans have taken the change in stride. “We haven’t had any hiccups at all,” says Taylor-Dixon. “Part of it is that the secondary ticket market has grown. People buy those tickets at a wide variety of prices.

So I think the single-game ticket buyer has become accustomed to the type of adjustments we are making.”

“We didn’t receive any negative feedback on it,” adds Hargis. “A key for us was the advertising, and not specifying individual game prices in advance.”

The football team had a relatively successful year at the gate, considering the team’s win-loss record. Finishing 5-7 and missing a bowl game for the first time in seven years, attendance still went up from an average of 40,849 in 2010 to 44,693 in 2011.

While it is hard to measure a direct impact of dynamic pricing, Taylor-Dixon believes it was part of the attendance upswing.

“It’s given us a chance to maximize our opportunities,” he says. “We’ve been able to price some of our tickets in highdemand areas reasonably and fairly. That can increase both revenue and attendance throughout the stadium.”

So far, USF has used dynamic pricing exclusively for football, although that will change in the future. The 10,000-seat Sun Dome, USF’s basketball home, is undergoing a full renovation. When that is completed, Taylor Dixon says dynamic pricing will be a big part of the marketing strategy for the building.

“We’ll take a good look at it then, especially since we play in the Big East,” he says.

“Both the opening of a renovated arena and

MARKETING

the following that some of those Northeast basketball programs have will be factors worthy of analysis.”

Going Online

By Jim Pokrivsak Jim Pokrivsak is Director of Athletics for the Easton (Pa.) Area School District and an alumnus of the school system. He can be reached at: pokrivsaj@ eastonsd.org.

Here in the Easton (Pa.) Area School District, we have been offering season tickets for home football and wrestling contests for more than 50 years, selling between 1,400 and 1,500 for football and 300 for wrestling each season. Our athletic department also offers individual reserved game-day tickets for those two sports, averaging 4,000 fans per game for football and 1,500 for wrestling.

Up until this school year, ticket sales were paper based and very labor intensive. We used standard roll tickets or preprinted reserved tickets ordered from a local vendor.

Athletic Ticket Manager Jane Braido, an 18-year veteran of our department, would place ads for season or reserved tickets in our local newspaper, encouraging spectators to clip it, fill in their details, and mail it to our office. She then gathered the orders, penciled fans into a hand-drawn seating chart, and deposited their payments at the bank every few days. With no customer input, athletic office staff decided the spectators’ seat locations. To the dismay of some buyers, we did not have the ability to accept credit cards.

After all spectators were accommodated, Braido would stuff envelopes with tickets, alphabetize them, and schedule times for customers to pick up their orders—a process that resulted in near constant office traffic and confusion. Unsold season ticket booklets were torn apart to become individual tickets for game-day sales. After football season, the process started again for wrestling.

Realizing how much time we were putting into our ticket distribution, we wondered if switching to a Web-based ticket management system would be a good idea.

Circle No. 140

I spoke with administrators at a few nearby colleges who use online ticketing systems, researched different companies, and went ahead with the change starting with the 2011 football season. Using a company named UniversityTickets, we transformed a multi-step, multi-visit process into a onestop purchase experience.

Now our fans may view game details and available tickets online, and then process their ticket orders with credit card payments, anytime of the day or night. They can also print the tickets from their home computers. Spectators who cannot complete online purchases are still offered the same office service they had come to expect, with walk-up sales printed on demand.

I don’t know of any other high schools in Pennsylvania that offer a ticketing service like this and I feel it may be the wave of the future, especially with the technology available. But a year ago, I had a number of questions about making the switch: How hard will the transition be? Is it cost effective? How will fans respond?

Setting up the system was very easy. All it took was a few hours of inputting the

2011-12 athletic events into the UniversityTicket system. In working with the online ticketing company, we retained control over all specifics, including prices and advertised availability.

As part of the process, we now have a Web site that is our “ticket center,” accessed at: www.eastonrovertickets.com. UniversityTickets creates a unique ticket site for any school using their services, and our technology department linked it to many of our school district Web sites. It lists all the games we sell tickets to, with links to purchase options. This site also has given us a great place to spell out our comprehensive ticket policy, which includes rules of attendance, purchase disclaimers, and other liability language that is important to present to spectators.

Another aspect of the new online process involves collecting the tickets at the

The move has allowed me and my staff to spend less time manually handling tickets and more time performing important athletic department duties ... We’ve cut down on paperwork and advertising costs and improved overall efficiency. event. For the system to work, we needed to purchase or rent barcode scanning devices for each entrance area to validate the selfprinted tickets. We researched our options and decided to rent scanners from UniversityTickets as the cost was minimal.

Using the scanners has definitely been a learning experience, but we improved each week. Internet connectivity issues impacted our first football game and heavy rain made things difficult at the second. By our third and fourth games, though, we were seeing near constant success with our scanning efforts.

A great benefit of barcode scanning is that it has provided us with a host of information we’ve never had before. It collects data that we can review after each game and season on how many season ticket patrons are actually attending each game, spectator loyalty, and arrival times.

One thing that helped immensely during the transition was having an intern—Deanna 54 APRIL/MAY 2012 | AthleticManagement.com

Prosper, a student from East Stroudsburg University’s Sport Management program— in our office. She input the athletic events and details into UniversityTickets’ online system and researched ticket scanners before we made purchasing decisions. She also created detailed information sheets that our staff could reference for inputting information and using the ticket scanners.

In terms of cost effectiveness, we feel going online has been well worth it. The costs incurred are low and the move has allowed me and my staff to spend less time manually handling tickets and more time performing important athletic department duties with coaches and athletes. No more hand-drawn seating charts! We’ve cut down on paperwork and advertising costs and improved overall efficiency associated with game ticketing. I believe it will save even more time in the future as more spectators convert to online ticketing.

While we have decided not to increase the cost of athletic tickets at this time, we may do so in the future.

Other schools and universities have placed the online ticketing and credit card costs on top of the event ticket pricing. They often call it a “convenience” or “handling” fee.

Feedback has been very positive.

A majority of our fans are using the Web site to print their tickets from home and enjoy the convenience of the self-service platform. They don’t miss having to wait in line for tickets or making repeated trips to the school. Our season ticket holders also like the speed in which we’re able to fulfill orders. Others have said they appreciate the real-time view of seat availability and the ability to pick specific seats.

There were some negative comments during our first couple of games associated with slow downs at the entry gates because of problems with our ticket scanners and Internet connectivity. But by the end of the season, the process became second nature— as if we had never used rolled carnival tickets at all.

Our new ticket platform is moving forward with only a few wrinkles. We are looking into using the system for basketball games, as well as our annual Thanksgiving Day football game against Phillipsburg (N.J.) High School, which is held at nearby Lafayette College and attracts nearly 14,000 spectators. In the seasons ahead, we expect to increasingly use online ticketing and for more and more spectators to take advantage of the new system, continuing to reduce the burden on our staff.

Integrated Marketing

By Jason LaFrenz Jason LaFrenz is Associate Athletics Director for External Relations at the University of Minnesota.

He was previously the Vice President of Marketing for the Minnesota Timberwolves. He can be reached at: lafre009@umn.edu.

Until recently, fans of University of Minnesota athletics purchased tickets in a similar way to those at most other colleges. They logged on to our main athletic department Web site, GopherSports.com, looked for a link to tickets, and navigated around to find what they needed, whether it was prices, available seats, parking options, or anything else. Although most of the information was available somewhere on the site, finding it and then actually purchasing tickets was convoluted and confusing to our fans. We recognized that this was not a great customer experience.

This realization was part of a review process conducted by our external relations team. We were analyzing how to create a better online experience for our fans in three specific areas: entertainment, information, and customer service.

We began thinking about ways to package content that makes sense to our fans. Online customers have become accustomed to making purchases on the Web very quickly and easily. That wasn’t happening consistently on GopherSports.com.

At the same time, AudienceView, which manages our fan database, customer relations system, and ticketing, fundraising, and online merchandise transactions, had recently enhanced its products to include an integrated content management system (CMS).

This system allows an organization to include important game information and customer service content at the point when fans are purchasing tickets or making donations.

From there, MyGopherSports.com was conceived. This Web site would put all ticket and event-related information on one Web site that was focused on customer service.

The site would also be where fans could purchase other items we sell, such as Gopher apparel, as well as make donations. The concept itself is simple, but the industry hasn’t ever really split out a separately branded Web site dedicated to transactions and customer service. As we started down this path, the following objectives helped guide us: > Keep the entertainment content on GopherSports.com. > Create an experience that minimizes the need to navigate between multiple windows or tabs in a browser. > Produce relevant content for customers

MARKETING

looking to purchase and renew tickets, buy merchandise, or make donations. > Decrease the number of clicks to make a purchase. > Educate Gopher fans on when and why to visit MyGopherSports.com.

During our discovery phase, we discussed at length whether this Web site should be differentiated from Gopher Sports.com. We decided it would be easier to drive customers to the right place if we chose to call the site something new. We toyed around with names involving “tickets,” but felt this was too narrow since we wanted to promote the idea that Gopher fans could buy anything they want (and manage one account) in one place.

We thought deeply about what name to give it. The recurring theme of what our fans can see and do on this Web site kept coming back to the same principle—it is a site for their interests as a customer. This is how we arrived at MyGopherSports, which debuted on Aug. 1, 2010.

From there, we began marketing the new concept to our fans: When you want to buy something from us, simply visit

MyGopherSports.com. The new site actually allows us to simplify our marketing message. Whether we are promoting ticket offers, season renewals, or other consumer actions, we direct our fans to MyGopher Sports.com. It is promoted on billboards and highlighted in television commercials, game announcements, and radio spots. We have even launched a customer service-related Twitter account for MyGopherSports that has more than 1,000 followers.

Along with providing our fans an easier shopping experience, MyGopherSports is allowing us to market our tickets and other products in exciting ways. Because we have full control over this site, we have been able to do whatever we want, whenever we want.

These new ideas have included: Integrated Merchandise: This past August, we chose to migrate our entire online store onto MyGopherSports with our partner, Goldy’s Locker Room. Our fans can now purchase tickets, merchandise, memberships, and gift cards and make donations in one single transaction. This strengthens the MyGopherSports brand and gives fans even more reasons to visit the site.

Migrating the store also boosts sales in all areas, since at the site, customers are in shopping mode, not fan mode. The numbers speak for themselves: Merchandise revenue online increased 124 percent in one month over the previous year, and the average order size on MyGopherSports was 233 percent greater compared to the previous year. The idea of integrating online merchandise with all online ticket sales and donations seemed obvious—consumers today want to buy everything in one place (think Super Target and Costco)—yet no one else is doing this in college athletics.

Further, the integrated approach allows us to dynamically market to individual fans based on their interests. For example, if someone comes online to purchase hockey tickets, they will see suggestions for hockey merchandise. If a customer is buying football gear, they are reminded that there are tickets available for the game that weekend.

Black Friday: On the day when America is focused on finding great deals, we capitalized on a huge sales opportunity. We advertised that the site would have a ton of deals on Black Friday—everything from a Gopher

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Circle No. 142 APRIL/MAY 2012 | AthleticManagement.com 55

MARKETING

Getaway hotel package to discounted tickets to stocking stuffer merchandise items. We created a compelling consumer experience while not impacting GopherSports.com. And

The idea of integrating merchandise with all online ticket sales and donations seemed obvious—consumers today want to buy everything in one place (think Super Target and Costco)—yet no one else is doing this in college athletics. we generated over $35,000 in ticket sales, merchandise sales, and donations through the online Black Friday promotion.

Ready for Anything: We are excited about the future possibilities that MyGopherSports will allow us. Whether we grab a huge win against a rival school, advance deep into

postseason play in a sport, or secure a date to play a football game on New Year’s Day, everything we’ve done prepares us to capitalize by having one place to send Gopher fans.

Our goal isn’t to have Gopher football fans go to MyGopherSports and just buy bowl tickets. We want them to shop for bowl packages (tickets, airfare, hotel), select their favorite bowl gear, sign up for our special events leading up to the bowl, and purchase anything else we have to offer.

Beyond the new integrated marketing ideas, the site is proving itself in many other ways. To start, our customer service has improved. We get fewer phone calls, and we’ve received great feedback on how easy it is to purchase tickets now. Second, our online season ticket renewals from 2010 to 2011 increased by 15 percent. We created a “Season Renewal Central,” where fans are able to learn about everything related to season tickets and renew in the same place.

This is a key difference compared to other season ticket renewal microsites that are so popular these days.

We are also happy to report that our fans are finding and using the site in a big way. We had 4.9 million page views on MyGopherSports in the first year, and in the second year, direct traffic to the site increased 40 percent.

What we’ve accomplished so far is only the beginning in our eyes. By having all customer data in one database, the packaging, cross-sell, and up-sell opportunities will allow us to create compelling offers to every type of Gopher fan. Whether she is a major donor and season ticket holder, or he lives in Hawaii and attending a game is rarely an option, our goal is to have something that resonates with each fan.

We are very lucky in college athletics to have such dedicated fans, but I think we are at a critical juncture because they are starting to compare us to their other consumer experiences. We need to offer our fans first-class purchasing experiences like those they find at Amazon, Apple, and Nike.

MyGopherSports was a big step forward in our quest to provide the same level of excellence our fans both deserve and expect from the University of Minnesota. n

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SPORTS MEDICINE

One Too Many

How many concussions equal too many? At the University of Texas, the sports medicine staff recently tackled this question with two of its football players.

By Kenny Boyd

jim sigmon/ut athletics

O

ver the past few years, there has been an increased public awareness about concussions. Physicians, athletic trainers, coaches, administrators, athletes, parents, and state legislators are all talking about how to better detect concussions, guard against them, and manage an athlete’s return to play.

But there is one area that isn’t being discussed very much—yet. And that is choosing not to return to play at all following a series of concussions. As we learn more about the effects of multiple concussions on the brain, conversations about ending athletic careers early will occur at an increasing rate.

Here at the University of Texas, we have had this difficult discussion with two of our football players within the past 18 months.

We ultimately recommended that each athlete discontinue playing football, and they did just that.

Both players had great passion for the sport and came from families with strong ties to football. But in the end, they came to the same conclusion: risking permanent lifealtering damage was not worth continuing to play football, even if the sport had helped to define a large portion of their lives.

Former University of Texas running back Tre Newton was on a path to the NFL before another concussion caused him to rethink his future.

AthleticManagement.com | APRIL/MAY 2012 57

LESS FORCE

Nathaniel “Tre” Newton fell in love with the game of football by watching his father, NFL great Nate Newton, play on Sundays every fall. The desire to follow in his father’s footsteps drove Tre to have a remarkable high school career that earned the running back a scholarship to the University of Texas.

He was one step closer to continuing on his father’s path to the NFL when during the last half of his sophomore season, his plan took a life-changing turn.

Tre sustained a concussion during the first quarter of a game at Kansas State University on Nov. 6, 2010. He had suffered a few concussions before, but this one was different. It wasn’t caused by a huge collision on the field and he wasn’t stumbling or feeling woozy on the sideline afterwards. In fact, he was alert and responding normally to other players and coaches. No one was aware that his brain had just been jarred.

Then Tre made a comment to one of our athletic trainers that he couldn’t remember parts of the game. He was immediately evaluated on the sideline and we found that

the medical staff every day, including daily physician check-ins. Communication was made with coaches and professors about limiting Tre’s meeting room and classroom interaction for the next few weeks. Our team physician also recommended a dose of supplemental DHA for four weeks.

Upon becoming asymptomatic in just a couple of days, we had Tre complete followup neurocognitive and vestibular testing as part of the evaluation process. Just like after his previous concussions, his follow-up tests returned to his baseline scores within days—a very quick turnaround.

While coordinating treatment of Tre’s concussion, the sports medicine staff also started talking about Tre’s history—and future. This was Tre’s first concussion of the season, but certainly not the first of his career. He was diagnosed with two concussions during his freshman year at Texas and could recount a few from high school as well.

However, our deeper concern was that it seemed as though a smaller amount of force caused Tre’s concussion this time around.

In the meeting, Dr. Pana walked Tre and his parents through our findings ... She explained that our concerns were not necessarily just in the number of concussions Tre had sustained, but in the relative lesser force that appeared to be initiating the onset of symptoms. he was slowly becoming more symptomatic.

Tre was taken to the locker room for further evaluation. His significant symptoms were similar to previous episodes and included photophobia, fogginess, memory difficulties, and headache.

The medical staff was perplexed because no one—including other players and coaches—could recount a significant blow to the head that would have caused Tre’s concussion. We regularly review game film to analyze player injuries, and it wasn’t until we did this that we found a kickoff return showing Tre sustaining a helmet-to-helmet hit that must have caused the injury.

Our concussion management plan was set into motion. Tre was to follow up with Kenny Boyd is the Head Football Athletic Trainer at the University of Texas, where he has worked since 2003. He can be reached at: Kenny.Boyd@ athletics.utexas.edu.

58 APRIL/MAY 2012 | AthleticManagement.com

No one even suspected a concussion until the singular symptom of memory loss surfaced. Tre’s memory loss had delayed his ability to report his injury to an athletic trainer on the sideline, and that was pretty scary.

At a follow-up appointment with our team physician, Dr. Andrea Pana, just days after the Nov. 6 game, Tre began expressing his own concerns about the long-term effects of his multiple concussions. Dr. Pana and I immediately set up a face-to-face meeting with Tre and his parents to discuss his future as a football player.

Prior to the meeting, I met with the football coaching staff to review our plan for the discussion. It is important to all of our coaches that everyone involved with the athletic program is on the same page when it comes to student-athlete medical issues. The football coaches understand that in any serious medical discussion,

including the one we were about to have with Tre, the primary focus must remain on the health of the student-athlete. Football is secondary in these cases and must be emphasized as such, by both the medical staff and the coaches.

In the meeting, Dr. Pana walked Tre and his parents through our findings, the progress of Tre’s current concussion, and our overall management plan. She reviewed Tre’s known concussion history and explained that our concerns were not necessarily just in the number of concussions Tre had sustained, but in the relative lesser force that appeared to be initiating the onset of symptoms. We also explained that the unknown long-term effects of multiple concussions were a big worry for us.

The next moments of the meeting were pivotal. Tre’s parents voiced their own concerns after hearing what Dr. Pana had said.

They felt it was important for Tre to hear their fears about his future, and each of them shared stories that revealed the enormous emotional investment they had in Tre’s life. They were as concerned as we were, but also made it very clear that it was Tre’s decision whether or not to continue playing and they would support him in whatever he chose to do.

Tre said that “he knew what the right decision was” and chose to give up football.

This was not a revelation for him. He had already spent a lot of time thinking, even prior to his last concussion, about what the next concussion might bring. In a lot of ways, hearing himself say out loud that leaving football was the right decision was all it took for him to commit to doing it.

Not many medically-related questions followed the meeting, but rather more practical questions about Tre’s future. What would his new role be with the team? Would he even have a role? What would happen to his scholarship?

In the end, Tre was granted a medical scholarship. Financially supporting our student-athletes following a career-ending injury is not a topic this school thinks twice about. We’re invested in our studentathletes’ futures and commit to them when they commit to us. And Tre wasn’t about to leave his teammates. He is now a student coach and mentors the younger players on the team. (For more from Tre, see “A Year Later” on page 60.)

CONCUSSION OR MIGRAINE?

Nolan Brewster aspired to be a Longhorn long before suiting up for his first game.

The son of Tim Brewster, a former assistant coach of the team, Nolan was a hard-hitting

SPORTS MEDICINE

defensive back with expert knowledge of the game. Like Tre, he had embraced the sport at an early age and was living out his dream of playing football for Texas.

Also like Tre, Nolan had a history of head injuries before stepping foot on our campus. But his medical history was quite unique. Nolan reported to our medical staff that early in his high school career, he began having migraine headaches, which seemed to occur after contact to his head.

His symptoms always resolved quickly after taking a typical migraine medicine. Following each episode, he was evaluated by a physician and returned to play only after he was asymptomatic.

Eventually, Nolan’s parents became increasingly concerned that his recurring migraines might actually be concussions and arranged for more in-depth evaluations with physicians who specialize in treating athletes who suffer from migraines.

The evaluations resulted in a diagnosis of post-traumatic migraines—not concussions—that resulted from the hits he sustained while playing football. The medical staff here at Texas received this information

and documentation upon Nolan’s arrival his freshman year and we set in place a concussion management plan specifically for him.

Any time he presented with any concussion symptoms—including a headache—it was treated as a concussion until prov-

Some were migraines and some were concussions.

Nolan red-shirted his sophomore year due to a shoulder injury, and returned to the team last fall. Then, during a game at UCLA on Sept. 17, 2011, he sustained a hit that triggered what he believed to be

Nolan was at a crossroads. He wanted to continue playing football, but was concerned the cost would be too great. He feared what more hits would do. en otherwise. Differentiation between a migraine and a concussion included type of symptoms, duration of symptoms, memory disturbance, and whether conventional migraine medicine helped alleviate the symptoms or not. During his first year on the team, Nolan had a few episodes.

After each one, Dr. Pana included balance and neurocognitive assessments in Nolan’s acute management plan to determine whether it was a migraine or a concussion.

a migraine. He reported it to our medical staff as such, which was typical for him to do when he felt an episode coming on. Dr. Pana took him immediately to the locker room. We knew that if it was the beginning of a migraine episode, he needed his medications promptly.

Nolan’s primary symptoms included headache and visual changes. Upon further evaluation in the locker room, his symptoms quickly worsened and he began expe-

Circle No. 144 AthleticManagement.com | APRIL/MAY 2012 59

riencing photophobia, nausea, vomiting, and memory difficulties. It became evident that this was not another migraine episode.

We told Nolan that it was unlikely his symptoms were due to a migraine and informed the coaches that he had likely sustained a concussion. Either way, he would not be returning to play that day.

By the end of the game, many of Nolan’s symptoms decreased significantly. We monitored him on the flight home and he was instructed to see us the next day, when he reported with a headache, slight nausea, and some mental fogginess. It was clear to our medical staff that Nolan had suffered a concussion and not another migraine episode. We initiated our concussion management plan, which began with continued daily evaluation.

The following day, Nolan began voicing concerns about his symptoms and repeated head trauma throughout his football career.

As the week progressed, his symptoms began to improve but his worries about long-term effects grew. Nolan’s parents expressed similar concerns and we concluded it best that he seek additional consultation.

By the week’s end, Nolan’s case was reviewed by a neurologist and neuropsychologist. It was clear to them that some of Nolan’s more recent migraines were being triggered by less force than when he was in high school. The doctors also agreed that those episodes we had diagnosed as concussions and not migraines—including the one on Sept. 17—were indeed concussions.

The following week, Nolan was asymptomatic and his neurocognitive, vestibular, and balance test results neared his baseline scores. The recommendations from his neurology consult supported a return to play only if Nolan was asymptomatic throughout a gradual return to play progression. It was also recommended that he increase his migraine medicine dosage as a preventative measure, but with the caveat that this was certainly not guaranteed to work.

Nolan was at a crossroads. He wanted to continue playing football, but was concerned that the cost would be too great. He feared that more hits would result in a confusing downward spiral of more migraines and even worse repeated concussions. Ultimately, he feared what hitting or being hit would continue to do to his brain.

Like Tre, Nolan’s concerns about continuing to play football replayed in his mind like a bad movie. Even before the last hit of his career, he already feared that this decision was coming.

Nolan’s parents also shared in his struggle to solve the mystery of his post-traumat60 APRIL/MAY 2012 | AthleticManagement.com

The decision to stop participating in a sport you love, even if it’s for health reasons, is never easy.

Former University of Texas running back Nathaniel “Tre” Newton made that difficult call in 2010 after suffering a series of concussions. For many players, the most challenging part isn’t the initial goodbye, but adjusting to a new life without sports. In this Q&A, Newton talks about his decision and shares advice to others going through the same transition.

ic migraines. They had lived it since his high school years and openly voiced their concerns to Nolan and our medical staff. His parents said it was his decision. They just wanted him to have all the information and support he needed to make the right choice.

Nolan came to us and said he knew what he needed to do. He was confident in his decision and that he had the support of his parents. Nolan stepped away from football and has stayed pretty distant. He still supports his teammates on the sidelines during games but does not do much else with the team. He is pursuing his degree with a medical scholarship and his time previously spent in the team meeting room or on the practice field has been replaced by his dedication to do well in school.

EDUCATION IS KEY

The decision to discontinue playing football was Tre’s and Nolan’s alone. Both players’ parents made it clear to their sons that it was up to them and they would support them regardless of their choice.

The Texas sports medicine staff also put no pressure on them either way. But what we did do was give them the resources to make a good decision.

I believe that Tre and Nolan arrived at the correct choice for them due to their

AM: What was the decision-making process like for you?

Newton: It was tough. After my last concussion, the athletic training staff here explained the possible long-term effects if I were to continue playing and suffered more concussions. It was difficult to hear because I’ve always been around football, and it’s something I’m very passionate about. But the fact that I was getting concussions more often and from hits that weren’t as big had a major impact on my decision.

How long did it take you to make up your mind?

About a week. Since I’d had a number of concussions before my last one, I knew it was getting serious. I didn’t think about getting hurt while I was playing, but I had

education about concussions. A cornerstone of our concussion policy here at Texas, and now required by the NCAA, is an annual concussion education session that is attended by all of our studentathletes in all sports They must acknowledge in writing that they have received proper concussion education and that they understand their responsibility to report possible concussion symptoms to our medical staff.

Listening to Tre and Nolan describe their fears about the lasting effects of multiple concussions was sobering. And listening to their parents voice concerns about their sons’ futures was tough. But it was important for me as an athletic trainer to give them as much time as they needed to talk about their injuries.

Tre and Nolan each had a unique set of circumstances that brought them to their final decision to walk away from football.

It was in their decision that I saw their strength. Though you could say they both had their dreams taken away from them, you could also say that they will surely have future dreams because of their choice. n A version of this article is being published in Training & Conditioning, a sister publication to Athletic Management.

SPORTS MEDICINE

been thinking about it off the field. After talking it over with my parents and the sports medicine staff, I realized that the right thing for me to do was give up the game.

How did you feel after you made the decision to stop playing?

It took me a few weeks to adjust. It was difficult to see my teammates play every week without me. The first couple of games after I quit, I was a little bitter because I wanted to be out there playing.

But I had to realize that life goes on, and I had to move on and find something else I’m passionate about.

Did you find something else to be passionate about?

I was blessed to get a scholarship here at Texas, a school which offers a great education, and I’m making the most of my academic opportunities. I always knew football wasn’t everything for me. I knew that even if I were lucky enough to go on to the NFL, I was going to need to get a job after that. I just graduated, and I’m staying at Texas to get a master’s degree in sports management. I know I can be successful without football.

Are you still involved with the team?

Yes. I work with [Running Backs] Coach [Major] Applewhite, helping the young guys learn the scheme. Everyone here has been really supportive, and has made me feel like I’m still a part of the team.

That’s made it easier.

Are you still physically active?

I still lift weights, run, and play pickup basketball. I love playing sports and being competitive, so I’m going to continue to be as much of an athlete as I can.

What advice would you give to other athletes to help them adjust to life after sports?

I would encourage them to get involved in something, even if it’s not their team, like other on-campus organizations. You don’t want to go off and be a loner and feel sorry for yourself. After you’ve been playing for awhile, you get used to a schedule, so I think it’s important to find something else to have in your schedule.

— Patrick Bohn

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TA B L E O F CONTENTS Welcome to The Guide .............................................................. 4 THE BASICS What Is a Concussion? ............................................................... 7 Has My Child Suffered a Concussion?..................................... 8 SYMPTOMS 24 to 48 Hours After a Concussion ......................................10 One Week After a Concussion ...............................................11 Long-Term Symptoms ...............................................................12 TREATMENT Recovery: The Importance of Rest.........................................15 When Symptoms Linger ...........................................................16 Concussion Testing ....................................................................18 Return-To-Play Guidelines .......................................................21 Concussion Support Groups...................................................22 MULTIPLE CONCUSSIONS The Dangers of Suffering Multiple Concussions ......................24 Not Returning to Play ...............................................................25 ON THE SAME PAGE Communicating With Your Child’s Physician ........................29 Communicating With Your Child’s Coach ............................30 Communicating With Your Child’s Teachers ........................32 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Frequently Asked Questions ...................................................34 Choosing the Right Helmet .....................................................35 Helmet Highlights ......................................................................37 Resources ....................................................................................39

877-422-5548 Ext. 11 | mg@momentummedia.com | www.parentsconcussionguide.com Circle No. 147

Circle No. 148

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Ground Control

In the blink of a few back-to-back games, athletic fields can go from beautiful to blah. Two top sports field managers reveal how to keep everything under control.

Maintaining Natural Turf

By Jody Gill

DAVID DRAPKIN/AP PHOTOS (BOTTOM)

Jody Gill is Grounds Coordinator at Blue Valley Schools in Overland Park, Kan. He can be reached at: jgill@bluevalleyk12.org.

It’s no secret that maintaining natural turf fields is complicated. Because we are dealing with living organisms and Mother Nature, there are many variables and options. Different climates require different maintenance plans, methods for controlling weeds and pests can change from year to year, and there are many choices for seeding and fertilizers.

I doubt I’m going out on a limb by stating that many athletic directors don’t really want to think about these things. I have a tremendous respect for athletic directors and how difficult the job has become. I see how many hours you work each week, and I know that you really don’t have time to worry about the cation exchange capacity of the soil on the football field or how many pounds of potassium was applied to the baseball field.

More likely, you just want to know that the field is safe and ready for play so you

Author Jody Gill oversees the maintenance of several natural grass fields at Blue Valley Schools in Overland Park, Kan. His article begins at left.

The synthetic field at Paul Brown Stadium, home of the Cincinnati Bengals, is maintained by author Darian Daily.

His article begins on page 68.

AthleticManagement.com | APRIL/MAY 2012 65

FACILITIES

don’t have to re-schedule the game. You want to trust your sports field manager to get the job done. Certainly, there are some athletic directors who are passionate about their fields and take an active role in maintaining them correctly, which is great. This article is for the administrator who wants great-looking fields but doesn’t have the time to understand the life cycle of the black turfgrass ataenius beetle.

So what is an athletic director’s role in field maintenance? What can you do to extend the life of your fields and help your sports field manager at the same time? One of the best actions you can take is to develop and implement a field wear management plan.

There is a direct correlation between field wear and field maintenance. As the wear increases on a field, the frequency of maintenance and repairs increases, along with costs.

Field wear tends to not be balanced. It occurs on certain areas and not others, causing compaction and thinning turf in high-use areas that can’t easily be fixed.

It is tough for a sports field manager to change how a field is used. But an athletic director can do so by working with his or her

coaches to develop field use patterns that spread wear around the field.

PROBLEM & SOLUTION

Wear on natural grass fields begins as thinning turf. The more severe problems that follow are not the result of thin grass in that area. The problems get worse because the activity that caused the initial thinning turf continues to occur in the same spot, over and over again.

The thin area then becomes bare soil.

When it rains the bare soil is trampled into a muddy mess, which becomes a bowl that holds even more water the next time it rains.

Then the sun comes out and bakes the compacted soil until it becomes pottery. Drainage is impeded, the grade is destroyed, and grass simply won’t grow there anymore. If allowed to reach this point, fixing the problem is expensive and requires closing the field for a period of time.

The solution to excessive wear is to change the use patterns on your field so that areas of thinning grass do not continue to get used.

Essentially, you are preventing the problem before it starts.

Circle No. 149 66 APRIL/MAY 2012 | AthleticManagement.com

Think about it this way: How much does it cost to have the tires on your car rotated?

Very little, or maybe nothing, depending on where you purchase your tires. How much does it cost to buy new tires? A lot. Tire rotation on your car is nothing more than a wear management plan.

With this concept in mind, take a good look at your sports fields. Is the entire field worn evenly? Is the wear isolated to certain areas? Is the west end of the field worn more than the east end? Do you know why the field is showing these patterns of wear?

Think of your field in terms of “use zones.” Different sports impact a field’s use zones in different ways. Football games result in more wear to the center of the field between the 20-yard lines, between the hash marks, and on the sidelines. Soccer games result in more wear in the goal mouths, corner kick spots, and the narrow path created by the line judges as they run up and down the touchline. These would be the high-use zones of the field.

Is there anything you can do to change the patterns causing extensive field wear? With a little creativity, the answer is yes. Coaches get

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in habits of using fields the same way during practices, but those habits can be broken. And there are even some solutions for changing wear patterns during games.

WEAR MANAGEMENT PLAN

In order to develop a wear management plan, your coaches must understand what

The easiest way to kill grass on a football field is to paint a line on it. The problem is not the paint, but the invitation it extends to coaches to use that line as a starting point for drills. you are trying to do and why. I suggest having a meeting with the coaching staff about this topic, and getting their buy-in. Show them how it is in their best interest to spread usage around the fields.

online

From there, take some time to analyze the wear patterns of your field. Why is the grass thinning in certain areas? Ask your coaches for their insights. Then figure out how to change those patterns to more evenly distribute the wear and tear. Specific areas to pay attention to include: Lines: The easiest way to kill grass on a football field is to paint a line on it. The problem is not the paint, but the invitation it extends to coaches to use that line as a starting point for drills. I always cringe when I hear the football coach repeatedly yell, “Everybody line up on the 20.” I’d rather hear, “Everybody line up on the 22.” When players do the same drill day after day in the same spot, the grass goes down in defeat.

One coach at our school had the whole team run single file down the goal line, sidestep down the far sideline to the 10, backpedal on the 10 to the near sideline, sidestep to the 20, and repeat this over and over, day after day, until there was no grass left to paint lines on. He felt it was very important for his players to follow those

lines when running the agility drills. We came up with a plan to paint additional lines in different colors so he could tell the team to run the blue lines on Tuesday and Thursday, and run the yellow lines on Monday and Wednesday. (Since this was not a game field, we had flexibility to do this.) When the players would start to wear off the paint, we would re-paint the lines several feet away from the previous ones to move that concentrated wear. This saved the white lines for running actual plays.

Such a plan works well for band practice also. You have to buy a little more paint but that is much cheaper and easier than field renovation.

Warmups: Have you ever noticed that the end of the practice field closest to the building or parking lot has more wear than the far end?

Team stretching and warmups always seem to take place at the same end of the field, usually closest to the locker rooms. Make it a habit for coaches to use the far end of the field for warm-up drills and you will see a huge difference in field wear by the end of the season.

Football: Make the center of the field off limits except for scrimmages and game situa-

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Circle No.153 AthleticManagement.com | APRIL/MAY 2012 69

tions. Individual and unit drills should never take place on the game field. We know that coaches need lines painted for just about every practice drill. I can assure you that your sports field manager will be more than happy to paint lines anywhere you like if it means moving a drill off the game field.

Soccer/Lacrosse: The high use zones on soccer and lacrosse fields are not as large as on football fields, so practices can usually be held on the game fields. However, there is the problem of heavy wear at the goal mouths and creases, corner kick spots, and touchlines. A great solution here is to periodically shift the entire field to move the high use zones.

To do this, allow more space than needed for your soccer and lacrosse field areas. Then move the painted field five to seven yards from the previous location midway through

your season. (You will obviously need portable goals for the idea to work.) With this strategy, you will see a huge improvement in turf quality where the wear tends to be much more concentrated.

If you don’t have room to move the field, you can spread the wear around the goal mouth by relocating the goals for practices.

When not in use, remember to lock the goals together, away from the goal creases, to prevent unauthorized use. It is important that portable goals are always re-anchored when they are moved to prevent injuries from them tipping.

Baseball/Softball: Since baseball and softball are primarily played on the skinned surface and not in the grass, it is much easier to manage the wear. What areas of the skinned infield must be filled and packed daily?

Home plate and the pitching rubber, right?

So it should be common sense that players and coaches should never pitch or bat from the grass. We are constantly telling players from visiting teams to move soft toss off of the grass and onto the warning track where it is much easier to repair holes.

A softball pitcher does not use a mound, so she often warms up anywhere, including the outfield grass. Within four or five pitches, she has dug a hole in the grass. The same is true when baseball coaches throw batting practice from just in front of the mound without covering the grass. Just a little common sense can prevent long term damage to the grass on these fields.

Your field wear management plan can be as simple as frequent reminders to coaches to be aware of the patterns developing on their fields and to make an effort to change them.

It could also be a much more complicated

ON YOUR OWN > If you do not have a sports field manager to oversee turf management at your school and you need to understand the intricacies of grasses and fertilizers yourself, there are many resources available to help. My favorite source of information is the Sports Turf Managers Association Web site at: www.stma.org. Click on “resources” then click on “technical information” to find more athletic field information than I could ever pack into one article.

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70 APRIL/MAY 2012 | AthleticManagement.com

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FACILITIES

and detailed plan of action. Either way, anything you can do to help manage and reduce field wear will save you money and time while keeping your fields safe and aesthetically pleasing.

Maintaining Synthetic Turf

By Darian Daily

Darian Daily is Head Groundskeeper at Paul Brown Stadium, home of the NFL’s Cincinnati Bengals. He received the 2011 Sport Turf Managers Association’s Dick Ericson Award for his leadership and positive influence in field maintenance. He can be reached at: DailyD@pbsl.net.

One of the appeals of synthetic turf fields is their reputation for being maintenance-free. But, as the saying goes, nothing in life is free. And that includes the maintenance of synthetic field surfaces.

Here at Paul Brown Stadium in Cincinnati, we have learned a lot about maintaining

synthetic infill turf since we converted from natural grass eight years ago. Back then, there was not much information available on the topic, and we used trial and error to determine best practices. Now, we have developed a comprehensive plan to keep the field in top shape, one that can work at a pro stadium or a high school field.

Synthetic fields don’t require the same upkeep as natural turf, but paying close attention to a few critical areas will allow the surface to function at its best. Regular maintenance will also help extend the life of the field.

There are three general areas to pay attention to when preparing any athletic field for play. First is to make the field safe.

Second is for it to be playable. Third, it should be aesthetically pleasing. The following maintenance program has worked very well to fulfill all three goals at Paul Brown Stadium, and it can be used at any level of play, with any budget.

SAFETY

Everyone involved in sports understands there is always a potential for injury. Our goal

is to eliminate the playing surface as a cause of injury. This requires two areas of maintenance: reducing the compaction of the field and removing foreign objects.

Keeping the infill system from getting compacted is the most important safety issue involving a synthetic playing surface. Over time, all fields, both natural and synthetic, will become compacted. This means particles compress together and the surface becomes hard, losing its ability to absorb the energy of the athlete’s body. This can do damage to athletes when they fall, slide, or land awkwardly during play. Excess surface compaction could also lead to over-strained joints and fatigue.

The first step is to monitor the compaction of the field. It is recommend to have your field’s G-Max level tested at least once a year by an independent contractor. This measures the impact absorption provided by the turf to a player running or falling, as well as the foot stability of the surface as a player runs across it. The G-Max level recommended by the Synthetic Turf Council (STC), using the ASTM F1936 standard, is 165 or below.

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Circle No. 155

If there is compaction, de-compacting is needed. Also referred to as “grooming,” this is done with a spring tine rake, which should be rigid enough to dislodge compacted infill but

field, the more level you can make the infill.

However, it’s important that you do not get overly aggressive with your grooming regimen, which can leave the infill too loose, causing poor footing. It may take some experimentation to figure out just the right amount of work to be done. You can try grooming the field in one direction, then walk the field and ask for feedback from the athletes. The second time, groom in two directions and get feedback. Continue to experiment and take good notes.

The second safety aspect of maintaining your synthetic field is diligent inspection for foreign objects. At Paul Brown Stadium, we use a magnet to clean our fields every three months and after concerts or other large on-field events.

The first time we used a magnet was a huge eye opener. I was amazed to see how many screws, nails, batteries, hair pins, paper clips, and other metal objects were retrieved.

These objects were not visible from a surface inspection but after grooming took place, the

A major factor in the longevity of a synthetic field is keeping the fibers upright. If fibers curl down into the infill, the players’ cleats tend to dig into them instead of the infill. This can cause the fibers to wear more quickly. flexible enough to not pull seams and fibers out of the carpet backing.

The program we use is to groom the field after every game, which loosens the infill that has been compacted during the contest.

We groom in two directions because the more directions you are able to groom the

ATHLETIC FIELD MANAGEMENT 2011_Layout 1 2/28/11 2:15 PM Page 1

magnet was able to loosen and collect these hazards. I would suggest trying it—you will be stunned at what you find in your field.

PLAYABILITY

A playable field is one that is level. If you have ever walked a synthetic field after a game you will notice that the infill gets displaced from the intense cuts made by athletes while running. These areas need to be re-leveled and allowed to settle and form a firm base.

The maintenance practice used to accomplish this is “brooming” the field. The term comes from the use of a stiff bristled broom that disturbs and evenly distributes the infill material. The field’s manufacturer likely supplied an acceptable brooming apparatus.

If not, contact the manufacturer and find out how to get one for your field. There are different amounts of “stiffness” in the brushes that are somewhat specific to particular fields.

We have tried many different routines with brooming, and what has worked best for us is to broom the field two to three times a week during the football season. The first time is usually the day after a game to get the

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Circle No. 156 72 APRIL/MAY 2012 | AthleticManagement.com

TEAM

UGA

FACILITIES

field back in shape. The second time is on Friday, which is typically the team’s last day of practice—this ensures the field is level going into the weekend. If we have a home game that Sunday, we will broom the field again after the team practices on Saturday.

In doing the actual brooming, it is important to use different drag patterns on the field.

This will keep the field from developing high and low areas. If the operator starts and stops in the same spot every time, the starting point will become depressed and the stopping point will become high. Also, if the operator continuously brooms the field in the same direction or pattern, the fibers will likely fall over, or in the case of an monofilament, the spine of the fiber could possibly “break.”

Along with leveling the field, brooming makes the fibers stay upright, which is important for ball roll. Especially for sports such as soccer and field hockey, if the fibers are in good shape, consistent ball speed can be obtained, allowing the athletes to perform at their peak.

AESTHETICS

To keep your synthetic field aesthetically pleasing, a cleaning program should be fol-

lowed from day one. After every event, we use a pull-behind blower to blow air across the turf, which removes trash and debris from the field.

High air flow machines are great because they move trash and other loose material without displacing the rubber or agitating the fibers.

Once the debris is blown onto an athletic track or against a wall, it can easily be picked up. During the football season we repeat this program two or three times a week.

I would also suggest instituting a “deep cleaning” program. This entails the use of a specialized machine that will agitate the rubber, deposit loose material like sunflower seeds, peanut shells, etc., into a collection apparatus, and then remove hair, dander, and fingernails before evenly re-distributing the rubber infill back into the field. At Paul Brown Stadium, we have our field deep cleaned once a year, but if there are many activities on a field, twice yearly cleaning is recommended.

We started this annual cleaning process four years after installing our field and I was amazed to see the trash and filth that was removed. We thought our field was fairly clean!

Even with a new field, I feel deep cleaning is warranted.

LONGEVITY

Proper maintenance procedures will do more than keep your field safe, playable, and looking great. They will also help extend the life of your synthetic turf.

A major factor in the longevity of a synthetic field is keeping the fibers upright. If fibers curl down into the infill, the players’ cleats tend to dig into the fibers instead of the infill while they are running and cutting. This can cause the fibers to wear more quickly, leading to fiber loss. If the fibers are standing up, however, the players’ cleats dig into the infill, where they are supposed to go.

Both grooming and brooming help to remedy the problem of fibers laying flat.

Grooming has the ability to pull fibers that were curled into the infill from cleat traffic back up to the surface after games. And brooming is good for undoing damage from flat sole shoes worn by recreational athletes and band members.

In the future, maybe synthetic turf fields will become maintenance free. But for now, regular care is needed to keep your field in top shape. The time invested will result in a better, safer surface over a longer period of time. n

Circle No. 160 AthleticManagement.com | APRIL/MAY 2012 73

GLOSSARY

Field Maintenance Equipment Here’s a list of equipment that will help keep your field in game-like shape.

NATURAL TURF Mowers

Reel – provide highest-quality cut available and most acceptable cut at mowing heights less than 2”; have cutting action like a pair of scissors, shearing the grass between one blade on the spinning reel and a “bedknife” at the base of the cutting unit Rotary – most affordable way to cut grass; choices vary

from 21-inch mower to gang mower units with an overall width greater than 15’; cut by sheer impact of a spinning blade hitting a leaf blade

Flail – pivoting blades or “flails” spin at high speed around a horizontal axle, and cut with a tearing action similar to rotary mowers

Fertilization Equipment Rotary spreader – most rapid way to apply product because it is distributed in a wide pattern; holes in the bottom of the hopper drop granules onto a rotating impeller that slings granules in a pattern wider than the spreader

Drop spreader – a very precise way to apply product; it is distributed by only the width of the hopper; a row of holes across the full width of the bottom of the hopper releases granules Calibration Equipment Calibration pan – depending on if you are using a rotary or drop spreader, pans are available to catch the granules to calibrate the equipment

Scale – needed to weigh fertilizer Measuring tape – needed to measure distance spreader travels and width that granules land

VEHICLES Utility vehicle – needed for transport of people and/or

supplies. Can also be used for maintenance operations such as using a drag or blower

Tractor – useful for attaching different implements needed for sports field management (such as aerators, harrow, mower attachments, etc.)

Cultivation equipment Hollow tine aerator – hollow cores penetrate the soil in

varying depths (3-6”) and diameters (1/4-3/4”); most common type of aeration and one of the most useful practices in the maintenance of a quality sports field; provides long-term benefits in improving soil aeration, water infiltration, and percolation rates; results in a healthier root system.

Solid tine aerator – solid tines create a hole, but do not

remove a core; limited surface disruption; fractures subsurface compaction zones

Deep tine – hollow or solid tines penetrate the soil in varying depths (8-12”) and diameters (1/2-1”); used to aerate deeply compacted fields and improves drainage

Information provided by Sports Turf Managers Association

74 APRIL/MAY 2012 | AthleticManagement.com

Spiker/slicer – penetration of solid metal blades into the

soil; allows water and air to reach the root system and can encourage lateral growth of grass plants

Irrigation equipment

(if you have installed irrigation, you may not have use for following portable irrigation equipment)

Traveling irrigator – this is a rotating sprinkler attached to a hose, propelling itself along a wire. The sprinkler winds itself along the wire using water pressure to drive an internal winch mechanism. When it reaches the end of the wire, it turns itself off Quick coupler – system comprised of a series of

underground pipes with quick couplers permanently installed flush with the ground. A quick coupler key is used to turn the system on and hoses or sprinklers can then be attached directly to the system.

Rain gun – huge impact-type sprinkler placed above the grade and used to irrigate large turf areas.

Hose and nozzle – needed for handwatering; can access

irrigation through quick couplers. The appropriate nozzle can be adjusted for water distribution.

Power equipment String trimmer Chainsaw Backpack blower Vacuum – helpful for debris and litter management or to assist with fall leaf collection

Blower – cleans turf areas and hard surfaces of aeration cores, grass clippings, leaves, sand, etc.

Seeding equipment Slit seeder – disks slice into the soil, seed is then dropped into the slits; enhances seed to soil contact

Rotary spreader – most rapid way to apply seed because

it is distributed in a wide pattern; holes in the bottom of the hopper drop seed onto a rotating impeller that slings seed in a pattern wider than the spreader

Drop spreader – a very precise way to apply seed; it is distributed by only the width of the hopper; a row of holes across the full width of the bottom of the hopper releases seed Harrow – breaks up and smoothes out the surface of the soil.

The purpose is to break up clods and provide soil with good soil structure that is suitable for seedbed use.

Pesticide application equipment Backpack sprayer – manually operated; spray coverage limited to one nozzle

Boom sprayer – tank is mounted on vehicle; mechanically

operated; spray coverage depends on width of boom and number of nozzles; provides accurate and precise application rate

Topdresser – helps to level the surface of the field and can be used to amend heavy, clay-based soil; applies topdressing accurately

Field covers or tarps – protect fields and baseball infields during rain events or during heavy traffic events; covers are also available to speed turf growth in the spring, keep turf green longer in the fall, or protect turf from winter injury

Groomer – grooms and levels baseball infield material;

Painting equipment

FIELD MIXES

Paint Paint application equipment – a wide variety is available

on the marketplace; compressor-driven or “airless” sprayers can be either walk-behind units, riding or stand-on selfpropelled equipment, hand-pumped pressure machines or stripers can also be used to paint lines

Stencil – can be purchased or made in-house; used to paint numbers or logos on the field with minimal overspray

Drag Nail – loosens the surface on a baseball infield or warning track Mat –used for final smoothing on baseball infield or warning track Mesh - breaks up soil clumps, levels the surface; used for

lightly grades soils such as seedbeds; available as equipment attachment or pulled manually

Drying Agents Conditioners Warning Tracks

Hand tools Soil probe Shovels Spade Flat Rakes Edger Post hole digger

Pruner Pick Sledge hammer Tamp Pitchfork Digging bar

final smoothing on baseball infield or warning track; used after aeration to break up cores and work soil back into the turf

SYNTHETIC TURF VEHICLES Utility vehicle – needed for transport of people and/or

supplies. Can also be used for maintenance operations such as use of grooming equipment or a blower.

Tractor – useful for attaching different implements needed

for sports field management (such as a snow plow or grooming equipment)

mechanically operated; spray coverage depends on width of boom and number of nozzles; provides accurate and precise application rate; used for weed control and to apply cleaning or wetting agent to lessen static charge and aid in drainage

Painting equipment Paint Paint application equipment – a wide variety is available

Topdresser – used to apply additional infill accurately

on the marketplace; compressor-driven or “airless” sprayers can be either walk-behind units, riding or stand-on selfpropelled equipment, hand-pumped pressure machines or stripers can also be used to paint lines

Irrigation equipment – needed to cool

Stencil – can be purchased or made in-house; used to paint

surface of field during high summer temperatures; sometimes required in field warranty (if you have installed irrigation, may not have use for following portable irrigation equipment)

Quick coupler – system comprised of a series of

underground pipes with quick couplers permanently installed flush with the ground. A quick coupler key is used to turn the system on and hoses or sprinklers can then be attached directly to the system.

Rain gun – huge impact-type sprinkler placed above the grade and used to irrigate large areas.

Power equipment Backpack blower – clean turf areas and hard surfaces Pressure washer – remove unwanted fluids or

contaminants

Vacuum – very important for debris and litter management Sweeper/Blower – cleans turf areas and hard surfaces; useful for trash removal

Field covers or tarps – protect fields and baseball infields during rain events or during heavy traffic events

Boom sprayer – tank is mounted on vehicle;

numbers or logos on the field with minimal overspray

Paint removal equipment – cleans painted lines from

synthetic turf; often a power washer and scrub brushes are all that are needed when removing lines

SANITATION Chemicals Antimicrobials Detergents UVC Technology - germicidal UVC technology can destroy the DNA of harmful microbes such as Staph, Influenza, MRSA, and HIV.

Grooming equipment Broom or brush – necessary piece of equipment; stands synthetic fibers up and distributes infill

Additional equipment – there are pieces of equipment

that resemble aerators with finger tines to loosen compaction

Rubber blade or snow plow – used for snow removal Magnet – removal of metal objects from field

AthleticManagement.com | APRIL/MAY 2012 75

Guide to Synthetic Turf

Mimics Natural Grass

Synthetic Turf Solutions

bringing Quality and Innovation

Mondo is a leader in synthetic field and rubber floor covering with more than 75 years of experience.

Mondo’s high-performance, durable surfaces have been installed in schools and universities worldwide. Mondo is the global leader in the sports and contract flooring markets, manufacturing flooring surfaces for virtually every application. More than 800 Mondo artificial turf fields are installed worldwide.

ProGrass LLC, provides the nation’s finest synthetic turf solutions for elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as colleges, universities, and professional fields. The company has worked on more than 350 fields from the Arctic Circle to the Texas border. ProGrass doesn’t want to be the biggest turf company, it simply wants to be the best company.

A subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., Shaw Sportexe is one of the leading synthetic turf companies in North America.

Shaw Sportexe has represented quality and innovation for more than two decades with more than 900 successful installations, including an impressive list of high-profile field installations.

Primary Advantages:

Recent Installations:

The synergy, provided by the three elements that comprise the Mondoturf FTS3 system—Fine Tuned Panel®, 3NX Fiber, and Ecofill®—produce the ultimate turf system. Ball roll and bounce mimic that of natural grass. The system provides outstanding biomechanical properties for the athlete throughout its useful life, including both shock absorption and vertical deformation, which are key elements that protect the athlete from injury. Due to the increased resiliency and structure of the fiber, translational and rotational friction characteristics lend themselves to ease of pivots and turns even in high torque scenarios.

Grand Valley State University Hiram College Churchill High School, OR Finlandia University Concordia University Hurricane High School, WV

University of North Texas Georgia Tech Western Oregon University Humboldt State University Cheshire Academy, CT Ringgold High School, GA

Southern Methodist University City College of San Francisco High Point University Loyola Academy, IL APS Soccer Complex, NM Blytheville High School, AR

76 APRIL/MAY 2012 | AthleticManagement.com

Shaw Sportexe engineers high-performance synthetic turf systems that more closely parallel natural grass in terms of aesthetics, safety, and performance. Its systems yield low gMax ratings (safety) yet have vertical deformation (foot stability) and force reduction (lower extremity protection) values in range of high-quality grass. By designing systems around these athlete-surface and ball-surface interactions, the company can ensure your field is functioning at its highest level of performance.

Recent Installations:

Recent Installations:

Mondo • 800-361-3747 www.mondoworldwide.com See ad on inside front cover Circle No. 502

Primary Advantages:

ProGrass, LLC • 866-270-6003

Shaw Sportexe • 866-703-4004

www.prograssturf.com See ad on page 71 • Circle No. 503

www.shawsportexe.com See ad on page 64 • Circle No. 504

Guide to Synthetic Turf

Leading Global Manufacturer Armacell, the largest supplier of technical foams in the U.S., is the only manufacturer in North America producing elastomeric and polyethylene profiles, elastomeric roll goods and buns, and PE cross-linked roll goods and buns.

Armacell has more than 50 years of experience as an innovator in closed-cell foam technologies and is a leading-edge global manufacturer.

Primary Advantages: The ArmaSport ® Turf Underlayment pad cushions the playing surface, providing consistent shock attenuation across the entire field surface for optimal playing conditions. Its state-ofthe-art drainage system ensures efficient water removal. The ideal material weight, long roll lengths, and turf-carpet widths are all designed to make installation fast and easy. And, synthetic fields installed with an ArmaSport Turf Underlayment may be able to use lower levels of infill material.

Recent Installations: Duke University Columbia University Ohio State University University of Maryland University of Richmond

Armacell • 800-992-9116 www.armacell.us See ad on page 70 • Circle No. 546

The Changing Face of Field Sterilization Since 1996, GreensGroomer products have been designed with the turf manager and athlete in mind, keeping the operation and maintenance simple while providing an optimum, safe turf surface for athletes. To date, GreensGroomer has provided turf conditioning equipment to more than 8,000 natural and synthetic turf venues worldwide.

After five years in development, GreensGroomer launched the GreenZapr ® and miniZapr ®.

Designed around the proven power of germicidal UVC technology, the GreenZapr destroys the DNA of harmful microbes such as Staph, Influenza, MRSA, and HIV.

Primary Advantages: Synthetic turf sanitation is currently addressed through applied chemicals. With the GreenZapr and miniZapr, UVC technology now enables the maintenance professional to perform sterilization on an immediate pre/post event basis and as a regular part of weekly maintenance processes.

By avoiding the high cost of chemical applications and the dangerous nature of the chemicals themselves, the GreenZapr and miniZapr provide the most effective and lowest cost option for field sanitation.

GreensGroomer WorldWide, Inc 888-298-8852 www.greensgroomer.com See ad on back cover • Circle No. 547

Unique Infill Option Fairmount Sports + Recreation, a subsidiary of Fairmount Minerals, is a leading supplier of top-quality sand and other nature-sourced mineral products for use in a variety of athletic settings. The company brings more than 120 years of experience as a leader in engineered, top-quality sand and silica products designed to meet customer’s individual needs.

Primary Advantages: FlexSand, a combination of two engineered elastomers and highpurity quartz sand, was specially formulated as synthetic turf infill to address to the deficiencies inherent in raw sand and crumb rubber fill. It effectively eliminates static charge, has an ultra-low abrasive index, radiates less heat, is UV resistant, and won’t separate like sand or other crumb rubber mixtures. FlexSand also contains no heavy metals or harmful chemical compounds.

Recent Installations: Vancouver College GaREAT Sports Complex, OH Joseph Austin Park, NY East L.A. High School, CA Helen Bernstein School, CA

Fairmount Sports + Recreation 800-255-7263 www.fairmount-sports.com See ad on page 3 • Circle No. 556

AthleticManagement.com | APRIL/MAY 2012 77

Guide to Synthetic Turf

Aesthetically Pleasing and Safe

High performance artificial turf

Synthetic Surfaces Inc. is a 39-yearold company that specializes in developing and supplying one-part high green strength urethane adhesives for installing artificial turf, sports flooring, and other recreational surfaces worldwide. NORDOT® Adhesives have earned a reputation in the turf industry for their ease of application under widely variable and sometimes adverse weather conditions, plus for their long-term durability after aging and weathering.

FieldTurf is a world leader in artificial turf offering industry-leading engineering and manufacturing resources and leading the synthetic turf industry with regard to setting higher environmental standards.

FieldTurf synthetic turf customers enjoy the benefits of significantly reduced water consumption and the elimination of fertilizer and pesticides, along with superior durability and unmatched drainage.

Primary Advantages:

Primary Advantages:

Fields installed with NORDOT® Outdoor Adhesives look good even after aging and weathering. They hold the field in place so that there are no buckles, stretch marks, or separating seams in the turf. Seams that are frayed or separated, or bumps in the turf due to expansion or contraction, can pose significant safety risks to athletes. When applied properly, NORDOT® Outdoor Adhesives reduce or eliminate these hazards.

Recent Installations:

For decades, NORDOT® Outdoor Adhesives by Synthetic Surfaces Inc. have been used throughout the world on thousands of sports and recreational surface installations.

These installations include football fields; soccer, baseball and multipurpose fields; tennis courts; professional stadiums; college, high school and municipal fields; playgrounds; putting greens and driving ranges; landscaping; dog runs; swimming pools, waterslides, and wave pools; and other specialized uses.

FIELD AESTHETICS: FieldTurf was

the first company to introduce a system that Looks Like Grass, Feels Like Grass, and Plays Like Grass.

FieldTurf has made significant improvements to the look and feel of a turf surface with the introduction of monofilament yarns and most recently the groundbreaking FieldTurf Revolution fiber.

Safety: What makes FieldTurf the safest system? The combination of FieldTurf’s heavyweight infill system (9.2 lbs / sq ft in our 2.5” system) and our 3/4” wide gauge turf spacing. All other turf systems typically contain a lightweight infill system (no more than 6 lbs / sq ft) and a tight gauge (typically 3/8”).

Turf Maintenance Equipment Wiedenmann North America LLC is the distributor of Wiedenmann natural and artificial turf maintenance equipment in North America, focusing on machines for turf regeneration, collection and removal of grass and leaves, turf sweepers, blowers, deep tine aerators, and sand spreaders and groomers. Artificial turf products consist of the Terra Clean M, Terra Groom, and Terra Brush.

Primary Advantages: The Terra Clean efficiently collects debris on the surface and can also be adjusted to reach the top layer of infill. The infill is then separated from the debris with a vibrating sifter and is redistributed back onto the field. The debris is collected in an easily removable hopper. The design and placement of the brushes on the Terra Groom and Terra Brush allow for consistent distribution of sand, rubber, and other top dressing materials. Optional rake fingers located in the front of the brush loosens the rubber infill, thus allowing for even distribution of the rubber crumb.

Recent Installations: Seattle Seahawks/Sounders Miami Marlins George Washington University Washington Redskins

Wiedenmann North America LLC Synthetic Surfaces Inc. • 908-233-6803 www.nordot.com See ad on page 13 • Circle No. 505

78 APRIL/MAY 2012 | AthleticManagement.com

FieldTurf • 800-724-2969 www.fieldturf.com See ad on page 16 • Circle No. 542

866-790-3004 www.wiedenmannusa.com See ad on page 26 • Circle No. 543

Guide to Synthetic Turf

A History of Innovation

A Field-Proven Adhesive

Limonta Sport is a worldwide industry leader for the research, production, and installation of synthetic turf systems, serving over 80 markets. It has a history of innovation, including the formulation and patent of the world’s first organic infill in 2004 and first FIFA 2 STAR recommended field with organic InfillPro Geo in 2007, since recertified three times in a row. In 2011, a professional “Serie A” soccer match was played on a synthetic turf system for the first time—FIFA 2 Star Certified Limonta Sport Max-S with InfillPro Geo.

TurfBond is a single-part, moisturecure urethane adhesive specifically developed for use with synthetic turf. With more than 2,500 installations, the company is fieldproven, and since TurfBond uses no solvents, it is among the safest, most trusted products of its type on the market. TurfBond is more forgiving of environmental conditions and allows some control over set times.

This reduces the waste and errors caused by the quick set times of two-part adhesives.

Primary Advantages: Combined with Limonta Sport FIFA Quality Turf, organic InfillPro Geo ensures consistent quality and performance while offering G-Max ratings, foot stability, and lower turf temperatures on par with the best maintained natural grass fields.

Limonta Sport is an original FIFA Preferred Producer and IRB Preferred Producer with ISO 14001:2004 Certified Quality. The company’s endorsement by the National Green Energy Council ensures that its products meet or exceed all environmental mandates.

Recent Installations: Highlands Municipal Field, CA New Dorp Municipal Park, NY Bowen Island Municipal Field, BC Saint Timothy’s School, MD Frank J. Bertino Field, NY Prospect Sierra School, CA

Limonta Sport • 212-904-1223 www.limontasportusa.com See ad on page 31 • Circle No. 560

Background: TurfBond was developed in partnership with PrecisionJet for the production of synthetic turf graphics. Emphasis was placed on creating an effective, easy-to-use, non-hazardous adhesive. The result was an environmentally friendly, moisture-cured, single-part adhesive that has been in use on sports fields since 2003. To date, more than 2,500 projects have been completed with TurfBond, including municipal projects, high schools, and NCAA and NFL fields.

Recent Installations: Indianapolis Colts Fannin County High School, GA Humbolt High School, TN Hitchcock Primary, TX

TurfBond • 770-926-0004 www.turfbond.net See ad on page 66 • Circle No. 567

Turn-key Sports Field Contractor Sports Field Contractors (SFC) handles everything for your turf installation from the factory to the field. Sports Field Contractors is not just a turf supplier/installer—is also a sports field designer and builder. Sports Field Contractors provides its clients with an integrated design that performs well not just for the first year after installation, but for the entire life of the field.

Primary Advantages: Sports Field Contractors is a certified dealer and signature installer of TigerTurf Systems.

TigerTurf is powered by TenCate, the world leader in developing and manufacturing synthetic grass fiber, primary backing, and infill material solutions for use on sports fields. TigerTurf Systems have been developed using industry-leading processes for manufacturing and testing synthetic turf that is unmatched by any competitor. The research-driven culture of TigerTurf has placed SFC at the forefront of almost every industry innovation over the last 35 years.

Current & Recent Installations: Sacred Heart Griffin High School, IL Fairfield University Star Hill Family Athletic Center, CT Lenz Field & Sports Complex, IL YMCA/Memorial Sportscare, IL

Sports Field Contractors

• 217-625-7272 www.sportsfieldcontractors.com See ad on page 68 • Circle No. 568

AthleticManagement.com | APRIL/MAY 2012 79

Directory

Advertisers Directory Circle #. Company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page #

Circle #. Company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page #

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126.

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121.

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128.

153.

114.

106.

132.

101.

109.

129.

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146.

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AAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Aer-Flo (Tuffy® Windscreen). . . . . . . . . . 35 Aer-Flo (Vipol® Matrix) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 All American Fund Raising . . . . . . . . . . . 30 American Public University. . . . . . . . . . . 15 American Sports Builders Assn. . . . . . . . 27 Armacell. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Athlete’s Guide to Nutrition. . . . . . . . 48-49 Athletic Management Program Service. . 45 BEAM CLAY® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Big Time Jersey. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 BigSigns.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC BigSigns.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Bison. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Cadman Power Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . 61 ClearSpan Fabric Structures. . . . . . . . . . 75 Concordia University. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 CoverSports (FenceMate® TuffPrint™). . . 69 CoverSports (gym floor covers). . . . . . . . 23 Daktronics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Eversan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Fairmount Sports + Recreation. . . . . . . . . 3 FieldTurf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Future Pro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 G2L® Window Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Game-On Sports Field Conditioners . . . . 61 Gatorade (G Series) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Gatorade (Prime 01™). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Gatorade (Perform 02™). . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Gatorade (Recover 03™). . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Gold Medal® Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Graco. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 GreensGroomer® WorldWide. . . . . . . . . . BC Heery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Kay Park Recreation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Kifco. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Limonta Sport USA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 MilkPEP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-19 Mondo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC Moose Pet Wear. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Musco Sports Lighting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Parents’ Guide to Sports Concussions . 62-63 PrecisionJet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 ProGrass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Salsbury Industries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Samson Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Shaw Sportexe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Sound Director. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Southern Bleacher. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Sports Field Contractors. . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Stadium Chair Co.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Sturdisteel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Synthetic Surfaces Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 The Athletic Edge by Pivotal Health Solutions. 34 TifSport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 Toro. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Triad Technologies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 TurfBond . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 University Tickets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Wiedenmann North America. . . . . . . . . . 26

Products Directory Circle #. Company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page #

Circle #. Company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page #

Circle #. Company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page #

507 Aer-Flo, Inc. (Tuffy® Windscreen) . . . . . . 88

545 Eversan, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

517 Power Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

511 Aer-Flo, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

556 Fairmount Sports & Recreation . . . . . . 77

520 Power Systems (Plyo Hurdles™) . . . . . . 90

526 All American Fundraising . . . . . . . . . . . 86

542 FieldTurf/Tarkett Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

503 ProGrass LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

549 AAE (BallStopper) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

521 Future Pro, Inc. (Soccer Goals) . . . . . . . 90

562 Rawlings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

551 AAE (Sideline Shelter) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

519 Future Pro, Inc. (PerfectGoals) . . . . . . . . 90

533 Salsbury Industries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

534 American Public University System . . . 94

563 Future Pro, Inc. (Portable Bleachers) . . . 92

536 Samson Weight Training Equipment . . . 94

537 American Sports Builders Association . 94

560 Limonta Sport USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

504 Shaw Sportexe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

546 Armacell (turf guide) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

525 G2L® Window Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

528 Southern Bleacher Company . . . . . . . . 92

516 Armacell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

559 Game-On Sports Field Conditioners . . . 83

568 Sports Field Contractors . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

510 BeamClay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

524 Gold Medal Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

561 Sound Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

566 Big Time Jersey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

552 Graco (FieldLazer S100) . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

531 Sturdisteel Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

539 BigSigns.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

553 Graco (FieldLazer G400) . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

505 Synthetic Surfaces Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

541 BigSigns.com (Press Box Banners) . . . . 88

547 GreensGroomer® WorldWide (turf guide) 77

527 The Stadium Chair Company . . . . . . . . 86

565 BigSigns.com (Bleacher Wrapping) . . . . 92

548 GreensGroomer WorldWide (LitterKat) 82

530 The Stadium Chair Company . . . . . . . . 92

518 Bison, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

554 Heery International, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

213 Tifsport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

550 Cadman Power Equipment . . . . . . . . . 82

532 Kay Park (Players Banches). . . . . . . . . . 92

558 Toro Commercial Division (Sand Pro®) . 82

538 ClearSpan Fabric Structures . . . . . . . . 94

529 Kay Park (Speedy Bleacher 108). . . . . . 92

557 Toro Commercial Division (Workman®) . 83

512 CoverSports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

506 KIFCO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

544 Triad Technologies, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

514 CoverSports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

502 Mondo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

567 TurfBond . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

564 CoverSports (GymGuard®) . . . . . . . . . . 94

540 Moose Pet Wear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

555 University Tickets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

501 Daktronics (BB-2153) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

509 Musco (Light-Structure Geen™). . . . . . . 88

522 Wenger Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

500 Daktronics (Sport Software) . . . . . . . . . 87

515 Musco (Control-Link ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

543 Wiedenmann North America (turf guide) 78

523 Eversan, Inc. (HD Video Display) . . . . . . 87

535 Pivotal Health Solutions, Inc. . . . . . . . . 94

508 Wiedenmann North America, LLC . . . . 82

®

80 APRIL/MAY 2012 | AthleticManagement.com

®

®

Case Study

Ready for

P

rimeTime Turf ™ BX 60, by ProGrass, combines two of the best fibers in the industry to create a one-ofa-kind natural grass performance, and is the only “blended” fiber system that can pass FIFA one-star (intense use) and two-star (stadium performance) field tests.

According to Todd DeWolfe, VP of Sales & Marketing at ProGrass, PrimeTime Turf was developed to play like natural grass, with as little maintenance as possible.

“If somebody is truly talking performance, this is the product,” DeWolfe says. “If you’re trying to replicate grass and hit the natural grass benchmarks, this is the new product we’ve come up with. But it’s also important to understand that if you are trying to replicate a grass field, there’s a little more maintenance than just throwing a synthetic turf product down, tossing the balls and sticks out there, and telling the kids to go at it.”

Working with its strategic partner, ACT Global, ProGrass fully supports the FIFA Quality Concept, since the standards were based on natural grass benchmarks. The company uses these natural grass benchmarks in its product development, quality standards, and sport performance test methods, as they were based upon top professional natural grass stadiums. These methods employed by FIFA ensure standards went far beyond high impact (GMAX) type testing. These benchmarks combine durability, climatic resistance, player-to-surface interaction, and ball-to-surface interaction standards.

According to DeWolfe, one of the key benchmarks relates to wear and tear on the fiber. “If you’re trying to get a premier synthetic turf system—trying to replicate grass—we feel this is the best system on the market,” he says. “We use the Bonar Ultra fiber, and in conjunction with our strategic partner, ACT Global, have an exclusive on the fibers we use.

We’ve done the Lisport simulated wear and abrasion resistance where the surface is artificially abraded to simulate multiple years of wear and tested for a number of things,

such as shock absorption, vertical deformation, vertical ball rebound, and rotational resistance.

“The Bonar Ultra fiber is the most skin-friendly fiber available and has the best UV package you can have on a fiber,” DeWolfe continues. “There are fibers out there that have had problems with not standing the test of time regarding UV wear. We’ve tested not just for wear, but UV degradation, and skin abrasion. We believe that those three factors lead to the premier fiber and product in the industry.”

Skin abrasion and skin friction benchmarks, which measure the abrasiveness and friction of artificial turf on the skin of a player when sliding, are also very important. It makes for a safer, cleaner system. “Skin abrasion and skin friction is huge,” DeWolfe says. “What you don’t want is for players to suffer a lot of abrasion and cuts from sliding on the turf and then take that back to the locker room. Having a low skin-abrasion fiber really cuts down on scratches and those kinds of things.”

For sports like soccer and lacrosse, the vertical ball rebound and angled ball behavior tests are vital. These benchmarks measure how high the ball bounces when falling vertically onto a synthetic turf field (vertical ball rebound) and how it rebounds from a surface when striking it at an angle under dry and wet conditions (angled ball behavior).

“Our PrimeTime Turf line isn’t only replicating what grass feels like and plays like, but also how the ball bounces,” says DeWolfe. “By using a blended fiber product, which is 50-percent rubber and 50-percent sand by weight, we don’t have a lot of infill fly out or migration. You’re truly getting the best of both worlds—a product that looks and feels like grass and traps the infill to keep spray down and keep the infill from migrating.

“The thing that we realize is that there’s artificial turf and there’s replicated grass,” he continues. “Artificial turf plays a lot like grass, but it won’t hit all the benchmarks that natural grass turf will hit. We’ve gone out, tested, and found the natural benchmarks for grass, which fall in line with the benchmarks for the FIFA two-star rating. That’s what we call replicated grass or artificial grass, when you hit those two-star requirements. This is a product that hits all the benchmarks for natural grass.”

ProGrass LLC • 866-270-6003 • www.prograssturf.com

AthleticManagement.com | APRIL/MAY 2012 81

Guide to Turf Care Exclusive Bermudagrass

Established in 1996, the TifSport Growers Association is comprised of 29 domestic and international TifSport growers. TifSport Bermudagrass—featuring a rich green color, and excellent footing and traffic tolerance—is protected by a USDA patent and, as a further safeguard, can only be grown and sold as certified sod or sprigs, and only by a licensed TifSport Growers Association member. Recent customers include Georgia Tech, Auburn University, and the Universities of North Carolina and Virginia.

TifSport Growers Assoc. • 706-552-4525 www.tifsport.com

The Terra Clean M is a self-contained artificial turf sweeper that efficiently collects debris on the surface and can also be adjusted to reach the top layer of infill. The infill is then separated from the debris with a vibrating sifter and is redistributed back onto the field. The debris is collected in an easily removable hopper. The Terra Clean M is powered by a Honda GX 240 gasoline engine and can be pulled by most vehicles.

Wiedenmann North America, LLC • 866-790-3004 www.wiedenmannusa.com Circle No. 508

Circle No. 513

Debris Goes, Infill Stays

The LitterKat synthetic turf sweeper is a commercially built, grounddriven sweeper that is designed to remove debris from the turf surface without displacing infill material.

With dual 12-volt vibrators in the collection baskets, any infill material that is collected is quickly returned to the field. The LitterKat is also equipped with a powerful six-foot tow-behind magnet that pulls unwanted ferrous material from deep within the infill.

GreensGroomer WorldWide, Inc. • 888-298-8852 www.greensgroomer.com Circle No. 548

Simple to Operate

Complete Coverage Mini Traveller irrigation reels offer a range of machines utilizing 1.1- to 2.1-inch hose in four frame sizes. The 1100, 1250, and the new 1500 models are extremely simple to operate. They are battery-powered, hand-portable, and easy to operate under low pressure. All of the models offer a cost-efficient method of irrigating sports fields, and their exclusive speed compensation control results in uniform, puddle-free coverage. Honda booster pumps and solar recharge panels are available options.

Cadman Power Equipment • 866-422-3626 www.cadmanpower.com

Efficiently Collects Debris

Versatile Vehicle

With an 18-horsepower engine and hydraulic power steering, the Sand Pro® 5040 offers the perfect combination of precision and power. This product also features the new Quick Attach System (QAS)™, which allows operators, in less than a minute, to switch from among 14 different attachments—without the use of any tools.

The Toro Company • 800-803-8676 www.toro.com

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Used by Champions

CoverSports field covers and wall padding products are now being used at Citizens Bank Park, home of the Philadelphia Phillies. CoverSports custom-made a full infield tarp with custom twist, easierto-grab handles, inserted grommets in 12-foot intervals, and webbing on all four sides for additional reinforcement.

The company also provided six custom rain spot covers to protect the pitchers’ mounds and home plates on the playing field and both bullpens, plus padding to cover the entire outfield fence, as well as the foul line territories in right and left fields and bullpen areas.

CoverSports • 800-445-6680 www.coversports.com

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Circle No. 550

Preferred Painting Machine

Preferred Underlayment

The Graco FieldLazer S100 field striper is the preferred walk-behind field-painting machine for marking lines, stenciling, and painting team logos. It utilizes proven Graco paint spray technology to deliver long-lasting bright lines, while using less paint. The lightweight construction and exclusive tall wheels easily roll over the roughest terrain, while delivering long, straight lines. Corner kicks, arcs, and circles are easily maneuvered with the three-wheel design.

ArmaSport ® is the preferred turf underlayment for greater field performance and consistent playing conditions. ArmaSport Turf Underlayment cushions the playing surface, providing consistent shock attenuation across the entire field surface.

It features closed-cell elastomeric foam technology, a state-of-the-art drainage system, antimicrobial protection, and long, wide rolls for easy installation. ArmaSport Turf Underlayment is manufactured by Armacell, an innovator in foam technologies and a leading-edge, global manufacturer for more than 50 years.

Graco® FieldLazer™ • 800-690-2894 www.graco.com/fieldmarking

Armacell • 800-992-9116 www.armacell.us

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Circle No. 552

Circle No. 516

Guide to Turf Care Condition Your Turf

Kifco, Inc., is the only manufacturer to offer a machine specifically designed to cool, condition, and rinse synthetic turf fields. The E200SST is specifically designed for the application of water to cool and condition all types of synthetic turf. The machine can apply 0.1 to 0.2 inches of water to a football field or field hockey surface in as little as 30 minutes. This unit is more affordable than in-ground irrigation systems, which can cost up to four times as much.

Kifco, Inc. • 800-452-7017 www.kifco.com

Testimonial

The Secrets to Success

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Hit a Grand Slam

Regardless of the size of your ball yard, CoverSports’ Grand Slam Fencing product line clearly establishes the boundaries and keeps the ball in the yard—unless a batter clears the fences. The One-Piece product is durable, soft, and easy to handle, and can quickly and easily be erected or taken down.

The Standard Kit allows for complete flexibility in enclosing smaller and medium sized areas and offers many of the same features as the One-Piece Kit.

CoverSports • 800-445-6680 www.coversports.com

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comfortably Tackle Tough Jobs

The new Toro® Workman® MD Series of utility vehicles combine a coil-over shock absorber suspension design with a patented Active In-Frame twister joint. These features deliver SRQ™—Superior Ride Quality—for added operator comfort and vehicle control.

The Toro Company • 800-803-8676 www.toro.com

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Below the Surface

Game-On sets the new standard in sports field conditioning for skinned infields and sports turf. Game-On will stand up to hard play and weather and will not break down.

Its angular particle structure contains many macro and micro pores that allow the material to absorb moisture, providing better porosity and air space to keep your field from becoming unplayable and rock hard. Game-On is available in regular soil conditioner, red top dressing, and warning track blend.

Game-On Products • 888-593-0395 www.hayditegame-on.com

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Everything for Your Infield

Everything you need to maintain and improve your infields is supplied

by BEAM CLAY®, makers of infield mixes, mound and batter’s box clays, and red warning tracks for every state and climate from regional plants nationwide. BEAM CLAY® also supplies more than 200 other ballfield products from “bases to windscreens” and has supplied every MLB team, most minor league and college teams, and thousands of towns and schools from all 50 states and worldwide.

Beam Clay • 800-247-2326 www.beamclay.com

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Self-Propelled Painting

The Graco FieldLazer G400 field striper is the industry’s first stand-on, self-propelled sports field painting machine. Riding upright improves visibility and reduces fatigue. Quickly and effortlessly stripe a large number of fields with the included 25-gallon paint hopper, up to 10 miles per hour of speed, and seamless hydrostatic forward and reverse maneuverability. Automatically paint dashed media and lacrosse lines or layout an entire field with the electronically triggered Auto-Layout™ feature.

Graco® FieldLazer™ • 800-690-2894 www.graco.com/fieldmarking

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“Our top three requirements are quality products, customer service, and profitability. They do a great job on meeting all of them and are always there to answer our questions. We’ve never had any problems and they even deliver!

Plus, our new nacho machine was like dying and going to heaven with the time it saved us in clean-up.”

—Joe Corcoran, Athletic Director for Roger Bacon High School. The school has indoor and outdoor concession stands, and each has its own set-up of popcorn, nachos, pretzels, hot dogs, and prepackaged cotton candy.

You can attract more customers, and decrease wait time and waste.

Plus, save time and money with the one-stop shop for concession equipment and supplies. Gold Medal has been popping with profits for 80 years. What can they do for you?

Gold Medal® Products Co. 10700 Medallion Dr Cincinnati, OH 45241 800-543-0862 info@gmpopcorn.com www.gmpopcorn.com

AthleticManagement.com | APRIL/MAY 2012 83

Straight Talk

Going to the Video

By Patrick Bohn

Installing video scoreboards brings a new level of excitement to home contests. It can also provide a great revenue source.

F

or many high school athletic departments, the battle to generate funds is never-ending. But with the economy still struggling, it’s imperative for schools to come up with new ways to bring in revenue. Two high schools are using video scoreboards to do just that, with great success.

David Coates, Athletic Director at Middletown (N.Y.) High School, is handcuffed a bit by the state when it comes to fundraising. Because schools in New York are not allowed to put up permanent signage around athletic fields, he needed an alternative method for bringing in corporate dollars. He found a solution in the Eversan video board his school has, on which he puts up advertisers’ logos and airs commercials.

And the move has been beneficial in multiple ways.

“There are a lot of dead periods before, after, and even during a game where you can get fans’ attention by putting something on the video board.” Coates says. “Texas Roadhouse restaurant, for example, paid for pre-game meals for our varsity football and boys’ basketball teams. In exchange, we show one of their commercial multiple times a game, and put a ‘Thank you’ message on the board several other times.”

Coates says since the school ramped up use of the video board for advertisements two years ago, it has generated just under $8,000 dollars a year, although, in many instances, companies don’t give Middletown money directly. Instead, they often take a page from Texas Roadhouse

84 APRIL/MAY 2012 | AthleticManagement.com

and cover the costs of team meals, a team trip, or equipment. “That’s critical for us,” he says.

“We’ve got over 70 percent of our students on free or reduced lunch, so finding someone to help out with these costs is important.”

“We give companies a lot more flexibility when using a video than an old-fashioned sign. If a company wants to change an ad in the middle of the season, they can send us something digitally and we can get it up on the board in less than a day. That’s much easier than going out, taking down old signs, and putting up something new.”

Coates sees numerous advantages in using the Eversan board as opposed to traditional methods most schools employ. “We give companies a lot

Straight Talk

more flexibility when using a video than an oldfashioned sign,” he says. “If a company wants to change an ad in the middle of the season, they can send us something digitally and we can get it up on the board in less than a day. That’s much easier than going out, taking down old signs, and putting up something new.

“Additionally, rather than thanking certain sponsors in certain seasons due to space limitations in programs, I can thank the football sponsors all year long, instead of just football season,” Coates continues. “This makes the companies happy, which makes for a better and hopefully more profitable relationship.”

Coates says he thinks there’s no limit to the amount of money the video board can bring in, and that he’s just scratched the surface of what he’d like to do. “We’ve got about 20 companies who advertise on the board with us, but really, there’s plenty of room to add many more and increase our revenue,” he says. “The video board is useful for showing replays or live game feeds, naturally. But the ability to use it to attract advertisers is really great.”

Unlike Coates, Washington (Mo.) High School Athletic Director Bill Deckelman is allowed to put up permanent signs around his athletic fields. But, for some potential sponsors, the cost of doing that can be prohibitive. “Companies have to commit to a three-year deal, and pay between $3,000 and $6,000 each year for a sign,” Deckelman says. “For a lot of them, that’s a significant expense.”

So Washington, with the help of some enterprising students from a marketing class and a scoreboard from Daktronics, has come up with an easy, low-cost way for sponsors to get their company logo out there. “The kids had this idea that we could put a company’s logo on the video board of our scoreboard a few times during football games and charge around $100 per game,” he says. “This past year, we had

three sponsors do that, and we brought in about $4,500 that way.”

“The kids had this idea that we could put a company’s logo on the video board of our scoreboard a few times during football games and charge around $100 per game. This past year, we had three sponsors do that, and we brought in about $4,500.”

Another benefit to using the video board is the ability to give companies the flexibility to put their logo up for a specific game that’s scheduled to draw a big crowd. While Deckelman hasn’t had the chance to do that at Washington, he sees it as a logical next step if the opportunity presents itself. “If we’re hosting a big playoff game, and a company wants to put their logo on the board for just that one game, not only can we do that quickly, we could charge a premium for it,” he says. “That’s more difficult to do with traditional signage because of the time delay associated with producing it and putting it up.”

Overall, Deckelman is excited about the potential of the scoreboard. “Video boards are just so much more engaging than traditional signage,” he says. “Those signs get lost in the weeds.

People’s eyes will gravitate towards a video board naturally.”

Patrick Bohn is an Assistant Editor at Athletic Management. He can be reached at: pbohn@MomentumMedia.com

AthleticManagement.com | APRIL/MAY 2012 85

Consider the following products for selling ads or sponsorships to local businesses for your athletic program.

Heat Up Your Sales

A Window of Opportunity

Make Walls Come Alive

Heat up your nacho and hot dog sales with one convenient machine.

The compact #5301 Dual Chili & Cheese Dispenser runs on a standard, 15-amp plug, holds a 140-ounce bag on each side, and only measures 19” W x 31” H x 22” D. It’s the perfect profit-packed machine for highvolume locations. The dual peristaltic pumps maintain air-tight control over each bag, virtually eliminating cleaning and extending the life of the products.

If your facility has suite space or perhaps extra press box space that is going unused, or you are in need of a creative revenue-builder, why not upgrade to a frameless, sliding glass window system? G2L Window Systems offers local businesses the opportunity to bring in clients, hold meetings, assist with social gatherings and more, all in the confines of a sleek, open-air, unique game viewing experience. Bringing in natural surroundings while entertaining is a sure revenue-builder.

Take your branding and make it come alive on your walls using BigSigns.com’s new conforming wall decal. Wall Skin takes on the texture of your concrete, brick, tile, and other curved or flat substrates, giving it a paint-like appearance.

The premium vinyl makes it ideal for full color graphics. Wall Skin can take your bare wall spaces and turn them into key graphic representations of your brand, organization, and sponsors.

Gold Medal Products Co. • 800-543-0862 www.gmpopcorn.com Circle No. 524

G2L Window Systems • 479-444-6214 www.g2lwindows.com Circle No. 525

BigSigns.com • 800-790-7611 www.bigsigns.com Circle No. 539

Great Fundraising Options

They Sell Themselves

New Fundraising Approach

All American Fundraising’s main programs focus on gift-giving, with brochures detailing the items it offers, from gift-wrap and deli items to fine chocolates. Each order is carefully packaged in-house, with each order itemized for the individual student. The company also offers valuable prizes and incentives for the school and the student sellers. Sales representatives have a full selection of ways to encourage organizations in their fundraiser.

StadiumChairs are perfect for fundraisers. The unique twopiece back can be printed on both sides—print your team mascot on the front, and sell sponsor logos on the back. Booster clubs and schools can easily earn high returns for minimal effort, as the products almost sell themselves. Fans will notice the soft cushioning and back support. This is among the most comfortable and durable seats on the market.

Moose Pet Wear has a new and exciting approach to fundraising.

All its products are custom designed with your school’s colors/logo/mascot and no minimums are required. The company has lanyards, mouse pads, bag straps, belts, wrist bands, key fobs, and more. Supporters get real value for real products. You get profit margins like never before. Break the cookie and candy habit. The folks at Moose Pet Wear can help you get started today.

All American Fundraising • 402-779-2000 www.allamericanfr.com Circle No. 526

The Stadium Chair Co. • 800-242-7757 www.stadiumchair.com Circle No. 527

Moose Pet Wear • 541-741-0658 support@moosepetwear.com Circle No. 540

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Scoreboards

GENERATING ADDITIONAL REVENUE

Connecting Fans to the Game On Demand Sound Effects

Eversan’s HD video displays bring the game closer, giving fans the best view and connecting them with the team.

Their appealing HD video display systems are created by engineering staff to utilize modular design schemes, for ease of installation and use regardless of facility size. Eversan is ready to meet the challenge of satisfying all your visual communication needs.

Eversan, Inc. 800-383-6060 www.eversan.com

Sound Director is an easy-to-use audio software package that automates your game presentation from a single computer. Music selections, prompts, and sounds are played with the click of a mouse. The computer plugs directly into your present PA system with one cord. Sound Director comes with more than 6500 sound effects and crowd prompts. Sound Director will make your job easier, your crowd more enthusiastic, and your game a success.

Sound Director Inc. • 888-276-0078 www.sounddirector.com Circle No. 561

Pledge Your Allegiance

Big Time Jersey gives fans the ultimate way to pledge their allegiance all year long. The company’s huge jersey-shaped flags are perfect to hang outside your house or at your next tailgate. Big Time Jersey is adding new teams and players to its roster as quickly as possible, so check back often if your favorite is not yet available. Big Time Jersey flags are also the ultimate fundraiser for booster and spirit clubs.

Big Time Jersey • 888-579-3524 www.bigtimejersey.com Circle No. 566

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Circle No. 523

Switch Between Sports

Switch between basketball, volleyball, and wrestling faster and easier than ever before with the new BB-2153 scoreboard from Daktronics. The scoreboard’s electronic captions automatically change when another sport mode is selected on the control console. Electronic captions are also available for the BB-3153 scoreboard, which features Daktronics’ patented ColorSmart ® digit technology to display the clock and team scores in amber, red, or green depending on the game situation.

Daktronics • 800-DAKTRONICS www.daktronics.com

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Wireless and Versatile

Eversan’s Dynamic Wireless Technology can be operated with 2.4 Ghz spread spectrum.

This system offers frequency hopping data transfer without interference from other wireless devices--no channel setting is necessary. In the same coverage area, the fully automated dynamic networking scheme allows multiple scoreboards to operate from one control console or multiple scoreboards to operate from multiple control consoles. The wireless system eliminates cable clutter and reduces installation cost and set up time. The long-distance communication capability means data can be transmitted more than a mile with elective antennas.

Eversan, Inc. 800-383-6060 www.eversan.com

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Easily Track Stats

Daktronics Sport Software makes tracking player, team, game, season, and even career statistics quick and easy. It is available for baseball, basketball, football, hockey, soccer, and volleyball. It is the official statistical software of the NAIA, the NJCAA, and the software of choice for several professional sports leagues. For additional information, or to join the TeamUp program and get the software absolutely free, visit the company’s Web site.

Daktronics • 800-DAKTRONICS www.daktronics.com

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AthleticManagement.com | APRIL/MAY 2012 87

Outdoor Facilities Saves Fences from Damage

Newly patented Tuffy® Ballasted Windscreen can save chain link fences from high wind damage. Each unit attaches only at the top, and the bottom edge is weighted to keep the screen vertical in low winds. As wind velocity exceeds 20 miles per hour, downwind sections begin to billow out, allowing damaging wind to escape through. It is engineered to save fences in winds up to 90 miles per hour. This product is available in 20 Vipol® colors and with Chroma-Bond® multi-color imprinting.

Aer-Flo, Inc. • 800-823-7356 www.aerflo.com

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The Perfect Solution

Sometimes an afterthought on major stadium or sports field projects, but none the less important, is ball containment and safety. With a full line of BallStopper Systems (in-ground or portable), AAE can design the perfect solution to many of the problems faced on a project—fields surrounded by parking lots, residential areas, or steep embankments. BallStoppers also reduce the chance that misdirected balls may cause bodily harm or property damage.

Aluminum Athletic Equipment • 800-523-5471 www.myaaeworld.com Circle No. 549

Revenue-Generating Strategies

Collegiate sports facilities reflect the traditions of their schools. They have moved beyond grandstands and bleachers. Today, they are spectator entertainment venues equipped with full-service restaurants, luxury suites, and comfortable seating. These new facilities not only create a better experience for the fans, they’re also good for business.

Heery’s expertise in master planning, design, engineering, and construction management helps clients by developing revenue-generating strategies, such as facility flexibility and amenity options. Heery also understands that a comfortable, clean facility brings an entire family to a sporting event, cultivating the next generation of fans.

Heery International • 800-52-HEERY www.heery.com

Significant Advantages

Light-Structure Green™, Musco’s complete foundation-to-pole top lighting system, provides significant advantages for your budget and the environment. Operating costs are cut in half through reduced energy consumption and 100 percent of maintenance costs are eliminated for 25 years, including lamp replacements, through Musco’s Constant 25™ product assurance and warranty program. Additionally, off-site spill lighting and glare are reduced by 50 percent and constant light levels are guaranteed.

Musco® Lighting • 800-825-6030 www.musco.com

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Lasts For Years

The Tuffy ® Windscreen will last for years because it’s made of Aer-Flo’s exclusive Vipol® Matrix. The windscreen comes with a five-year warranty. Thousands of these windscreens are used by high schools, colleges, MLB, and even NASCAR. This product is available in 20 standard colors and with super durable Chroma-Bond® Imprinting for multi-color logos that do not fade like digital printing.

The Tuffy ® Windscreen is the Official Windscreen of the US Professional Tennis Association. This product is superpremium but surprisingly value priced for school budgets.

Sold only by Aer-Flo Authorized Dealers.

Aer-Flo, Inc. • 800-823-7356 www.aerflo.com

Circle No. 511

Cost-Effective System

Musco’s Control-Link® is the reliable, cost-effective system that helps control, monitor, and manage your recreational facility lighting. Whether for a new lighting system or an upgrade to existing lights, the Control-Link System includes the Control-Link Central™ team, available 24/7; the on-site Control-Link equipment; field usage data by facility and user group; and an industry-leading warranty. Control-Link can help reduce energy usage by operating lights and equipment only when needed.

Musco® Lighting • 800-825-6030 www.musco.com

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Circle No. 554

Protection from the Elements

Make Bold Statements

Aluminum Athletic Equipment • 800-523-5471 www.myaaeworld.com Circle No. 551

BigSigns.com • 800-790-7611 www.bigsigns.com

Your athletes work hard, so help them rest up between plays in a Players’ Sideline Shelter. This semi-permanent, all-weather unit provides protection from the elements with its tinted plexi-glass back/sides and removable vinyl canopy shelters. The generously sized seat and backrest offers comfort and a convenient elevated shelf with a hinged cover that opens to store athletes’ gear. Optional padded trainer’s table can be connected in rear.

88 APRIL/MAY 2012 | AthleticManagement.com

Press Box Banners from BigSigns.com have unlimited design possibilities.

You can make bold statements using a simple graphic or add flair with digitally enhanced photographs.

Regardless of what design you choose, these superior banners will impress your fans and provide maximum exposure for your program. The graphics are digitally printed using UV-protected Ultra Brite inks onto a reinforced vinyl mesh banner called DuraMesh, giving a great visual impact that lasts.

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Announcing a book for coaches of all sports Coaching involves so much more than teaching skills, calling plays and winning games. This book provides practical ideas to help coaches become the best possible professionals in education-based athletic programs.

1695

$

136 PGS

AM24.03

ORDER FORM PLEASE PRINT INFO. MAG, Inc. • 20 Eastlake Rd. Ithaca, NY 14850

Blueprint for Better Coaching includes concrete tips to help coaches in the following areas: • Short-range and long-range planning • Communication with athletes, parents, athletic administrators, and media • Risk management responsibilities • Administration tasks

Name: Street Address: City: State: Zip: Daytime Phone:

(To be used if there’s a problem with your order)

Email address: PAYMENT METHOD

SHIPPING PRICES

❑ U.S. check made payable to MAG, Inc. enclosed (sorry, only US orders)

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Expiration date: _____/_____ 3 or 4 digit code: _______ Cardholder Name PRINTED:

From the publishers of Athletic Management

For more information, go to www.athleticmanagement.com

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111003

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Blueprint for Better Coaching

Fax this order to 607-257-7328 or Mail this order to MAG, Inc., 20 Eastlake Rd., Ithaca, NY 14850

Subtotal $ + Shipping $ NY residents add sales tax $ | APRIL/MAY = TOTAL $ AthleticManagement.com 2012 89 Please allow 2-3 weeks for delivery.

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Football & Soccer Equipment

Testimonial

Resistance Training Station

Change your workout by simply changing angles. The resistance training station allows for multiple connection points for resistance tubing. Perform strength, agility, or power movements. The two stations allow for up to 12 connection points for single or multiple users. The station includes two straps and carabineers. Dimensions: 2”W x 34”L x 1/8” Thick.

Black. Mounting hardware is not included.

Power Systems, Inc. • 800-321-6975 www.powersystems.com

Circle No. 517

Solution for Portable Soccer Goals

Bison’s Soccer No-Tip Wheel Kit has molded polyethylene drums that provide anti-tip ballast to meet ASTM F-2056 and double as 12inch wide transport wheels. The No-Tip system is a standard feature on many ShootOut Portable Soccer Goal packages. Retrofit kits can be added to all sizes of Bison’s 4-inch square, 4-inch round, and 2” x 4” Portable ShootOut Goals already on the field. Customers supply dry sand.

Bison Inc. • 800-247-7668 www.bisoninc.com

ShootOut Portable Aluminum Soccer Goals at Future Pro have special features for safety and durability: an ultraeasy Qwik Track net attachment, torque-tested backstay attachment that eliminates weld failure, large corner safety radius, and width compensation that allows safety padding. Choose No-Tip wheels for ballast and transport or football field compatibility. Bison’s eight-year warranty covers 4-inch square and 4-inch round goals. Contact Future Pro for the most competitive pricing on all Bison made equipment.

—Terry Dow, Football Coach SUNY Morrisville State College Morrisville, NY

“We had confidence in A-Turf right from the beginning, but we got the most confidence after speaking with other schools that have worked with A-Turf and already went through the process. They assured us that A-Turf does exactly what they say they’re going to do. Every person said they absolutely loved their field and working with A-Turf.”

—Matt MacMullan, Athletic Director McDonogh School Owings Mills, MD

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Improve Explosive Power

The Plyo Hurdles™ are a portable training tool designed to improve explosive jumping power and knee lift during plyometric training. Posts are marked from 12 inches to 40 inches in 4-inch increments. Molded rubber bases offer stability indoors or out. You can secure the 40-inch crossbar in or on top of the dual-clip. This product features highimpact PVC posts and a carry bag is included. Assembly is required for this set of four yellow hurdles.

Power Systems, Inc. • 800-321-6975 www.powersystems.com

“When you’re standing on our field, you see way more fibers than infill— and that’s a big factor. The infill does not spray like it does in other fields—that’s important to consistent playability. Plus, A-Turf’s 12-year warranty is huge.”

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Added Safety and Durability

Future Pro, Inc. • 800-328-4625 www.futureproinc.com

A-Turf® Titan Gets High Praises

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“Players, coaches, and trainers have raved about the playability and feel of our field. It has been fast and consistent.”

—Chris Fanning, Athletic Director Sahuarita High School Sahuarita, AZ

“We still get jaw-dropping looks when people see our field. It doesn’t look like any other field. The Titan fits every need we could ever have. We love to show it off.” ­—David Spiehler, Athletic Director McQuaid Jesuit High School Rochester, NY

The Perfect Goal

PerfectGoals will accommodate football at both high school and college widths. These Bison PerfectGoals are schedule 40 steel goosenecks with 5 9/16-inch OD available with 96-inch or 72-inch setback. A 4 1/2-inch steel tube crossbar has expandable uprights for adjustment between high school and college widths.

The design allows one-man adjustment of the 20-foot aluminum uprights. Contact Future Pro for the most competitive pricing on all Bison made equipment.

Future Pro, Inc. • 800-328-4625 www.futureproinc.com 90 APRIL/MAY 2012 | AthleticManagement.com

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A-Turf 505 Aero Drive Cheektowaga, NY 14225 Toll-Free: 888-777-6910 www.aturf.com

fabric structures

F L E X I B L E F I N A N C E S O L U T I O N S O N FA B R I C S T R U C T U R E S * TERMS UP TO 7 YEARS RATES AS LOW AS 4.99% AS LITTLE AS 10% DOWN *Subject to credit approval.

A superior environment for training, competing and recreational sports.

Low in cost per square foot.

Natural daytime lighting.

Easy to relocate.

Expandable.

Call one of our ClearSpan specialists today at 1.866.643.1010 or visit www.ClearSpan.com/ADAM2.

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Product Launch

Impulse Football Helmet

AirPro™ Lockers

Rawlings www.rawlingsfootball.com 800-RAWLING Circle No. 562

Wenger Corporation www.wengercorp.com 800-4WENGER Circle No. 522

Unique features:

Benefits for the user:

• Rugged construction, mounted off floor, with open-grid design • Integrated seat and lockable storage • Antimicrobial paint

• Promotes airflow, sanitation, and inspection • Saves floor space and enables easy cleaning under and around • Enhances team room functionality, aesthetics

Unique features:

Benefits for the user:

• Ultra lightweight design for highperformance athletes • C3 comfort liner: The Impulse uses a highimpact VN foam with two air inflation ports

• Heat exchange: Padding system designed for maximum temperature control by strategically placed pads to create optimal air flow AthleticManagement.com | APRIL/MAY 2012 91

Bleachers A Distinctive Look

Fiberglass players’ benches from Kay Park Recreation add team color to your field and enhance team spirit.

They come in six-, eight-, and 15-foot lengths (with or without backrests) and with your choice of stationary or portable lets. Many colors are available to meet your needs.

Custom school colors can be matched, and emblems can be inlaid for a distinctive look. Other products offered by Kay Park include bleachers, tables, bike racks, and planters.

Kay Park Recreation Corp. • 800-553-2476 www.kaypark.com

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Printed Just for You

Dress up your court with imprinted SidelineChairs. The chairs feature thick vinyl-covered foam for comfort, and imprinting is available on the chair back and seat cushion. SidelineChairs have the durability and quality you’d expect from much higher-priced chairs. The extra-sturdy powdercoated frame comes with dual-reinforced steel support bars on the back legs and carries a 10-year limited warranty.

The Stadium Chair Co. • 800-242-7757 www.stadiumchair.com

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The College of William & Mary needed grandstand seating and a custom prefabricated press box for men’s and women’s soccer and women’s lacrosse. The facility, known as Martin Family Stadium at Albert-Daly Field, seats 923 fans and has a 9’ x 30’ press box. The clear span foundation was enclosed with a brick facade and houses restrooms and storage. Today, Tribe athletics has one of the finest facilities in the Colonial Athletic Association.

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Seating Solutions

“SPEEDY BLEACHER 108” is an economical-folding, highwaytowable, very versatile seating solution. It seats 108 people and has both an aisle and handrail.

It is easily moved from one field to another with a conventional vehicle. Complete with an electric folding mechanism and telescoping tongue, the bleacher can easily be put where it is needed in just a few minutes by one person. Move it anywhere you need event seating. This product is more economical than having permanent bleachers at every location that sit empty most of the year. It is seven rows, 27 feet long, less than nine feet high and built to meet recent safety codes.

Kay Park Recreation Corp. • 800-553-2476 www.kaypark.com 92 APRIL/MAY 2012 | AthleticManagement.com

Triad Technologies offers the Team Bench for indoor or outdoor use.

These benches are constructed of durable fiberglass, so they stand up to harsh weather and rough sports use. They far outlast typical wooden benches that can rot or splinter, and look much better in your school colors with your team logo. They are lightweight, stackable, and easy to move and store. Call for your free brochure and pricing guide.

Triad Technologies, Inc. • 877-224-3512 www.triadtec.com

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Seating Built to Last

Future Pro offers Weatherbeater outdoor portable bleachers, Bisonbuilt for years of use. Their seating units--in two-, three-, or fourtier sizes--feature recycled poly ground runners, galvanized steel framework, heavy-duty aluminum seats, and foot planks that come in 7.5-, 15- and 21-foot lengths. The 15-foot planks can be powder-coated in a single color or a combination. Call or go online for pricing and other information.

Future Pro Inc. • 800-328-4625 www.futureproinc.com

Finest Facilities

Southern Bleacher Co. • 800-433-0912 www.southernbleacher.com

A Step Up from Wood

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Circle No. 563

Make a Bold Statement

From wrapping a small bleacher to covering the back of a large stadium, BigSigns.com has the bleacher-back banners that will impress fans and ensure maximum exposure for sponsors. BigSigns digitally prints to its proprietary Dura-Mesh vinyl using UV-protected Ultra-Brite inks, to keep an organization’s investment looking great for years. And the strong mesh is finished with BigSigns’ DuraGuard reinforced hems. Call or go online to learn more.

BigSigns.com • 800-790-7611 www.bigsigns.com

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A Better View For VIPs

Texas Tech University wanted to provide a VIP seating option for its featured tennis matches. Sturdisteel came through with two 90-foot I-beam grandstands, each two rows deep and elevated 10 feet in order to give a bird’s-eye view of the action. Sturdisteel also provided aluminum backrests to enhance viewer comfort. The aluminum risers and backrests were painted Texas Tech red and black.

Sturdisteel Company • 800-433-3116 www.sturdisteel.com

Circle No. 531

Case Study

Synthetic Turf Needs Maintenance, Too

By Mary Helen Sprecher

Photo courtesy of Medallion Athletics, Inc., Mooresville, New Jersey

Photo courtesy of Verde Design, Inc., Santa Clara, California

Photo courtesy of Hellas Construction, Inc., Austin, Texas

Take a hike Field builders advise making regular walkthroughs of all facilities, including those with artificial turf. Keep an eye out for problems like irregularities in the turf, and feel for loose areas that could trip up a player.

Inspect all seams and edges, check the rubber depth (particularly in high-traffic areas like the crease on lacrosse fields), and ascertain the drainage system is working correctly. In addition, stand back from the field and make sure the markings and lines are all straight; some

Photo courtesy of Foresite Design, Inc., Berkley, Michigan

T

here’s no secret code when it comes to knowing when your field needs repair or replacement ­— at least as long as it’s a natural grass field. Making the call on an artificial turf facility, though, requires closer scrutiny.

“These fields aren’t maintenance-free,” says Dan Wright of Sport Turf Company, Inc. in Whitesburg, Georgia. “They still need attention.”

According to Chris Cote of XGrass in Dalton, Georgia, regular upkeep can prolong the useful life of turf.

“While much less work is required than with a natural grass field, synthetic turf needs to be maintained as well to maximize playability and life of the product,” he notes. “Minimal maintenance would include brushing the fiber up and clearing the area of leaves and litter. Depending upon the type of surface and the amount of use, more vigorous work could be required, normally from specialists in maintenance, to remove contamination and de-compact the infill on a regular basis.”

Paying attention to the field, then, is key. Whereas a natural grass field will be looked at by the facility manager on a regular basis thanks to the need for mowing, weeding, etc., this regular inspection regimen often is bypassed when it comes to synthetic turf.

activities can actually twist the turf, making the lines appear crooked.

Sometimes, field managers do notice a problem, but dismiss it as a perception issue. But even if you think a problem is minor, keep this in mind: unlike a natural grass field, the surface won’t repair itself during down-times. It’s easier to rectify a small problem than it is to deal with an accident or injury that took place because of it.

Find out what’s happening In some cases, say field builders, checking for damage to the field is a matter of knowing what activities are being held there, and what problems they can cause.

Repetitive exercises, drills and practices (in soccer, running or any other sport) that are held on the same area of the field can cause premature wear in those areas.

Marching bands also can be hard on a turf field, as the same spots are used for pivots, turns and marching in place. Have band practice held somewhere other than the field. And always, athletic footwear should be required.

The bottom line, though, is to be proactive. And make no mistake: artificial turf fields aren’t everlasting. They do have a lifespan, and at some point they will need to be replaced.

“Over time the fibers will begin breakdown, which means they’ll split,” notes Cote. “Splitting is the great enemy of the sports turf yarns and is the main reason that fields wear out.” Just remember that your field — while it’s not alive — isn’t like a plastic plant, either. It takes care and tending to retain optimum performance and athlete safety.

Note: The American Sports Builders Association (ASBA) is a non-profit association helping designers, builders, owners, operators and users understand quality sports facility construction. Available at no charge is a listing of all publications offered by the Association, as well as the ASBA’s Membership Directory.

American Sports Builders Association | 866-501-ASBA (2722) | www.sportsbuilders.org

AthleticManagement.com | APRIL/MAY 2012 93

More Products Plenty of Space

Salsbury Industries’ standard lockers were too small for football, basketball, baseball, and softball teams. The company’s Open Access Lockers provide large vented space for clothing, uniforms, and many other applications. Salsbury’s Open Access Lockers include a coat rod and feature a lockable upper shelf and foot locker for secure equipment storage. Salsbury Industries’ trained and knowledgeable staff can get you what you need, on time and on budget. For a free catalog, visit the company’s Web site.

Salsbury Industries • 800-LOCKERS www.lockers.com

Circle No. 533

American Public University offers more than 150 degree and certificate programs in a wide variety of specialties.

Whether you are working in a municipal, commercial fitness, school, or military setting, APU offers a flexible and affordable program to fit your lifestyle.

APU’s tuition is far less than other top online universities so you can further your education without breaking the bank.

American Public University System • 703-334-3870 www.studyatAPU.com/athletic-mgmt Circle No. 534

Pivotal Health Solutions proudly announces its newest brand: The Athletic Edge. With 20 years of experience manufacturing wood/laminate products, Pivotal has been supplying schools, students, and professionals with quality products in therapy, massage, medical, chiropractic, and now athletic training.

The Athletic Edge product line features: taping stations, treatment tables, portable tables, mat platforms, benches, split leg lift tables, lasers, lockers, and more.

Circle No. 535

ClearSpan Fabric Structures provides design-build solutions for your athletic and recreational structure needs. Hercules Truss Arch Buildings feature abundant natural light and spacious interiors without support posts for a superior training environment. With minimal foundation requirements, the structures can be permanent or temporary, and are easy to relocate. Made in the USA, they can be built to any length and up to 300 feet wide, and are designed to meet local wind and snow load requirements.

The new Functional Training Rack Series from Samson Equipment is setting the world of strength and conditioning ablaze. This unique design combines a fully functional Power Rack with not one but two adjustable cable column machines — all within a compact area. Never before has an athlete been able to perform all the core lifts a rack/ platform provides with the multifaceted capability of a fully operational functional trainer. This product is extremely easy to adjust and use quickly, getting your athletes in and out of every facet of a workout much more effectively. The new 111FTR Rack Series is made only by Samson Equipment.

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Circle No. 538

Cost-Effective Ticket Solutions

UniversityTickets is a leading provider of ticketing services for high schools, colleges, and universities. Founded in 1999, UniversityTickets offers costeffective ways for educational organizations to sell tickets and collect payments online with options for season ticketing, point of sale, ticket validation, online renewals, secure student authentication, and more. The company’s products were born in a college environment and continue to develop around the needs of its high school, college, and university clients.

University Tickets • 888-771-1420 www.universitytickets.com

A Unique Design

94 APRIL/MAY 2012 | AthleticManagement.com

American Sports Builders Association • 866-501-2722 www.sportsbuilders.org Circle No. 537

ClearSpan Fabric Structures • 866-643-1010 www.clearspan.com

New Brand

Samson Equipment • 800-472-6766 www.samsonequipment.com

The American Sports Builders Association (ASBA) is a national organization for builders, designers, and suppliers of materials for tennis courts, running tracks, synthetic and natural turf fields, and indoor and outdoor synthetic sports surfaces. ASBA publishes Buyer’s Guides with information on the process of selecting a site, choosing a contractor, identifying a surface, and so forth. Visit the ASBA’s Web site for a searchable database of members.

Structure Solutions

Great Value

Pivotal Health Solutions, Inc. • 605-753-0110 www.pivotalhealthsolutions.com

National Organization for Builders

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Enhanced Slip Resistance

CoverSports has expanded the GymGuard® gym floor cover product line to include GymGuard Plus.

GymGuard Plus has a unique raised pattern that provides enhanced slip resistance and costs no more than standard GymGuard. GymGuard Plus offers an advanced level of safety and durability for ultimate gym floor protection. GymGuard Plus is available in 27and 32-ounce weights and gray and tan colors. Contact CoverSports for test results or GymGuard samples.

CoverSports • 800-445-6680 www.coversports.com

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Case Study

ASEP Offers Coaches Certification With Substance New edition of Coaching Principles course coming in May

T

he best coaching education program for scholastic coaches just got better with new editions of the text, Successful Coaching, Fourth Edition, and its companion course, Coaching Principles, slated for release in May 2012. Offered by the American Sport Education Program (ASEP) and based on Successful Coaching, written by ASEP and Human Kinetics founder Rainer Martens, Coaching Principles has been a mainstay for more than 30 years, recognized by state high school associations, state departments of education, and individual school districts in meeting coaching education requirements for scholastic coaches.

The retooled Coaching Principles course—available in the classroom or online—includes new information on bullying and hazing; social media; nutritional guidelines regarding creatine, energy drinks, caffeine, and hydration; and methamphetamine and prescription drug abuse and drug testing.

The course also features 90 minutes of all-new video highlighted by end-of-unit roundtable discussions with experienced master coaches who provide practical guidelines and sage advice for new coaches on a variety of topics.

The classroom version of Coaching Principles has always been central to ASEP’s success. In developing the new course, ASEP interviewed some of its best instructors for ideas on improvement. ASEP took their advice and streamlined the classroom course into seven units, bolstered the content that spurred the most discussion—those dealing with coaching philosophy and communication—and moved some of the more technical content to self-study.

Coaching Principles provides what it takes to be a successful coach. Through the course, coaches are challenged to: • Define who they are as coaches (their coaching philosophy, objectives, and style), coach for character, and coach diverse athletes (units 1-2)

• Enhance communication and motivational skills and manage athletes’ behavior (unit 3) • Become more effective teachers of technical and tactical skills (unit 4) • Train athletes for energy and muscular fitness, fuel athletes, and battle drugs (unit 5) • Manage a team, relationships, and risk (units 6-7).

For many, the classroom is the preferred learning environment, affording coaches the opportunity to interact with and ask questions of instructors and other coaches. It also affords athletic directors the comfort of knowing when, where, and how coaches are taught. As an athletic director, take control of and add substance to your coaching education program by becoming an ASEPcertified instructor. It’s simple—and it’s free.

Offer your coaches a certification with substance— adopt the new Coaching Principles today. If you want your coaches’ certification to mean that they’ve gained substantial knowledge from their training, and not just a certificate, contact ASEP. To discuss options, contact: Jerry Reeder ASEP Assistant Executive Director 800-747-5698, ext. 2325 JerryR@hkusa.com www.ASEP.com

The American Sport Education Program (ASEP) is the leading provider of youth, high school, and elite-level coaching education in the United States. ASEP’s philosophy of “Athletes first, winning second” places the developmental needs of athletes ahead of winning. ASEP is one of many programs offered by Human Kinetics, Inc., the premier publisher for sports and fitness.

American Sport Education Program (ASEP) • A Human Kinetics Program | 1607 N Market Street, Champaign, IL 61820

AthleticManagement.com | APRIL/MAY 2012 95

INTRODUCING OUR

NEW LOOK

OUR REDESIGNED WEB SITE FEATURES...

• Headlines of the day • Back issues • Special digital supplements • A searchable database of articles • A blog dedicated to high school and college athletic administration VISIT US AT:

ATHLETICMANAGEMENT.COM

Big Graphics.

Big Impact.

BigSigns.com If you are looking for big graphics for your stadium or facility that make a big impact, BigSigns.com is the place to go. We are experts at designing, manufacturing and installing creative, impactful, stadium graphics that revitalize even the most tired facilities. We have an array of products to meet almost any need and a creative staff that will make your brand stand out. If you are looking to elevate your athletic program’s profile, improve recruiting success and enhance the fan experience with big, dynamic stadium graphics, BigSigns.com is your only choice. Visit our website to see why.

800 790 7611 Circle No. 158

FIELD SANITATION JUST GOT A WHOLE LOT EASIER The day has arrived when field safety can be achieved without the use of harmful chemicals and scarce water resources. Facility Managers can now address the risks of MRSA and HIV on all sports surfaces and do so in the most cost effective manner possible. Designed by GreensGroomer WorldWide® the GreenZapr® uses the power of UVC technology to destroy harmful germs inherent in sports turf surfaces.

STERILIZATION WITHOUT CHEMICALS DELIVERS 99.9% KILL FACTOR SAFE & EASY TO USE OBLITERATES THE ORGANISM’s DNA PROVEN BY INDEPENDENT STUDIES RELIABLE ON-BOARD POWER Germicidal UVC has been used in the eradication of pathogens, viruses, mold, and fungus for over 100 years.

Now adapted for mobile use, the GreenZapr uses the strength of UVC in a simple tow-behind unit. With an on-board generator with intelligent power regulator, the GreenZapr efficiently sends and controls power to the light banks. The spring tine rake module lifts material, preparing it for exposure. Total immersion in the UVC is executed with a three-pass technique that results in a 99.9% kill factor. Get all the facts, studies, white papers, and product data at GreensGroomer.com or contacts us toll free at (888)298-8852.

GreensGroomer.com 888-298-8852 The miniZapr is also available, which is a great solution for hard to reach spaces, locker rooms, weight rooms, fitness areas, bathrooms, and all athletic surfaces.

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© 2012 GreensGroomer WorldWide, Inc. All rights reserved. Patents Pending