Prof. Brown asked Mr. Castiglione about the coaches’ raises. Mr. Castiglione replied that OU is in a unique environment, especially with a successful athletics program. The reason we are having success is because we have been able to generate the revenue necessary to best package our program. In many cases, our coaches are considered the best in the business. If we ignore the market place, then we have a problem with retention. Our coaches are the reason why the program is self-sustaining. The compensation of the coaches is commensurate with the market, their performance, and how their teams do overall. The increase in compensation is paid from sources that would not be possible without their success. It comes from radio and television, corporate sponsorship, and licensing revenue. At the same time, we have to navigate a difficult journey because many of the staff will not get raises, just like the rest of the campus. It is important to keep the people who are creating success and, when possible, to share the success with the rest of the campus, such as with the academic enhancement fee and the endowment that was created several years ago for the University library. In the last month, Sam Bradford, Coach Sherri Coale and Coach Bob Stoops were on the cover of magazines. The student-athletes and coaches profoundly impact our state.
Prof. Forman noted that a lot of money comes the University’s way when we go to a playoff or bowl game. However, the Athletics Department takes quite a few people on the trips, which is expensive. Mr. Castiglione said the travel size reflects the type of bowl. A travel allowance is put in place by the conference, and it is larger for a BCS bowl. For the Athletics Department, it is a business trip. They have to move their operations to another city for eight or nine days. It is very expensive to move the players, coaches and their families, support staff, University delegation, and the marching band. A budget is set aside, and it is the Athletics Department’s job to stay within the budget. The department does it in a cost-efficient way but still makes it a first-class experience for student-athletes, because they got us there, they deserve the reward, and hopefully it puts them in a great position to win the game.
Prof. Muraleetharan pointed out that another tangible benefit of having a successful athletics program is it makes fundraising easier for the University. Mr. Castiglione said there is some debate on whether a successful athletics program has an effect on institutional fundraising and admissions applications. A good athletics program is like a high tide in the harbor: it can raise all the boats. Perhaps the program can bring recognition and visibility to the University. The program’s mission is to be successful but also to stay true to its core values.
Prof. Bass asked whether the coaches would again pledge financial support for the library. Mr. Castiglione said he could not speak for them. However, a number of the coaches help the campus and the community in many ways and do it without a lot of publicity. It is their choice whether they support the library or something else.
