Athletic Budget Update #57
Questions about how to fund athletic programs in the face of NCAA legislative changes such as cost of attendance stipends and possible legal mandates continue to grow. As a result, there are a number of notable budgetary news items on the college athletics front, including:
- SMU plans to cut $35 million and lay off staff to tighten their institutional budget. The cuts are being attributed to the opening of a presidential library, 3% salary increases and the decision to move to the American Athletic Conference.
- NCAA President Mark Emmert is anticipating that student athlete participation opportunities may be lost as schools consider how to balance budgets through the reduction of sports.
- UNC Wilmington is dropping four teams and adding sand volleyball.
- A number of MVC Basketball coaches commented on cost of attendance stipends.
- Mid American Conference AD's had numerous comments about rising costs as well.
- Alabama State anticipates paying their new head football coach about $180,000 due to a severe budget situation on campus.
The elimination of teams since NCAA governance model changes brought about "autonomy" for the Power 5 conferences is a growing focus for many athletic administrators. UltimateSportsInsider.com will be maintaining a running summary of the lost opportunities for student athletes. Those losses to date include -
- UAB drops football, bowling and rifle - Dec 3, 2014
- UNC Wilmington drops four track and cross country teams - December 8, 2014.
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