Big E wrote:No I don't. Doing some homework, pitching some current boosters, asking the public (you know, the people who are paying the taxes that subsidize the program), applying some elbow grease, and laying the facts out on the table might be things I would try before going "Hey look! We're 1-AA!" or "|expletive| it, I quit".
Near as I can tell none of that was done, save for a half-assed attempt at some "homework".
I'm guessing that the "public" who doesn't even bother going to the games isn't going to want to dish out much money to help keep football going at UNO for any sustained period of time....if at all. Â Keep in mind that this wouldn't be a one time thing. Â They don't just need to get that money this year and everything is golden. Â They'd have to do this EVERY year, especially if the program isn't successful....I don't even want to think about what would happen if it completely tanked. Â And again, you're gambling all of the AD department on the hopes that the public and boosters will come through every year. Â Not just in donations, but in attendance.
Big E wrote:There's no proof that it wouldn't, but for some reason that is taken as gospel.
There's no 100% guarantee either way, I get that. Â Nobody is saying that it's "gospel," simply that it's too big a risk. Â From the outside, it doesn't look like they tried everything they could, I get that (but who knows what really happened behind the scenes). Â Imagine the beating they would have taken if they decided to just go on status quo and the AD department had to fold completely? Â Sure, the football team and wrestlers would have been happy for a few more years....but the end result is worse. Â Again, assuming that the information provided about the financial situation surrounding the AD department is accurate.
The other thing to keep in mind is that they had to make a decision rather quickly. Â If they didn't, another school would have sucked up that spot that UNO was being offered. Â From what I understand, other schools were already being looked at. Â Whether that was a "nudge nudge" from the Summit League or a genuine concern, I don't know. Â But the last thing UNO wanted was to flounder on the decision and and get left in the dust. Â Again, if the AD was really in such bad shape, that would have just been a death sentence. Â Oh sure, some other league may have picked them up...but you're gambling again.
Now, if the financial status of the AD department was not as dire as suggested, I'd agree with you. Â Take the time, take the gamble. Â But if it was really that bad.....again, I don't know what other choices you have.
Equal Opportunity Hater.
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