As guilty as the next in sometimes getting wrapped up in the heat of the moment with the fervor and passion of the board. But in quieter, more reflective moments , I try to consider the larger picture.
The University, our University, has many constituencies vital to its success. Casual observation would suggest that athletics is an important constituency (witness the facility investment), but far from a driving force. And it certainly shouldn’t be THE driving force, but submit, in the best interests of the University, it should hold a higher value.
If athletics isn’t a driving constituency, it follows that we board denizens are further down the totem pole. Don’t believe our voices carry much, if any, weight at all. If truth be told, we are likely considered a vocal bunch of cranky old men, a nuisance to be tolerated, because our goals are not their goals.
In short, despite the University’s substantial resources, the Administration is not driven toward athletic success to advance its strategic goals. Athletics is an addendum. A shiny fob to be taken out and admired occasionally, but quickly boxed up and put away until the next season.
We lack commitment, small to large:
At MBB team level, commitment to defense and defensive rebounding,
At athletic program level, commitment to doing all that is necessary to be successful on a sustained basis,
At Administration level, commitment to athletic success as a synergy with strong academics to leverage national publicity and enhance the school’s reputation.
UR thinks too small. Rocco said the same with his “vision” comment.
Hope with a new President coming soon perhaps this may change, but I rather doubt it.
