American Press: Athletic Administration by William F. Stier, Jr.

Athletic Administration:
Sound Decision Making, Effective Problem Solving and Appropriate Risk Taking

by WILLIAM F. STIER, JR.
2nd edition, 436 pages,
ISBN 978-0-89641-509-6,
$49.95 (includes shipping)

The 2nd edition of Athletic Administration, written by a successful collegiate/university and high school athletic director, is designed to help current and future athletic administrators deal with the myriad of difficulties, challenges and problems that confront them in the performance of their jobs. This is a book about problems and challenges, specifically, how to recognize problems, how to avoid them when possible, and how to resolve them, all within a school-based, competitive athletic setting. It is about having global vision rather than tunnel vision. It is also about athletic administrators surviving problematic and stressful situations.

This book was written specifically for use in collegiate courses dealing with the preparation of athletic administrators and sport managers. It is appropriate for future and current athletic directors, as well as other athletic/sport administrators, at all levels of amateur sport competition. The book can also be most helpful when used either as the main text or as an addendum in the “Sport Managaement/Administration” classes since this text deals specifically with teaching would-be athletic managers/sport administrators how to be successful, especially in terms of solving the multitude of problems that face most administrators within the world of amateur, competitive sports.Most of the problem solving principles, strategies and tactics suggested within this book are applicable for all levels of amateur sport competition, i.e., youth sports, junior and senior high school levels, as well as the collegiate or university scene.

UNIQUE ELEMENTS OF THIS BOOK

This book has seven separate but related features that make it somewhat unique in terms of athletic administration and sport management books.

Generalinformation relating to the process of problem solving

Chapter objectives and exercises pertaining to the content of each chapter

Eighty-seven fundamental priciples presented in chapters one and two as "problem solving principles" which speak specifically to the tasks and responsibilities associated with problem solving by athletic administrators

Eighty-seven specific survival strategies and tactics in chapters three, four and five relating to the pboelsm solving process

Fifteen case study tenets in chapter six highlighting the advaantaage of using the case study methods to develop insites into problem solving

Includes 105 unique case studies (chapters seven through thirteen) based on realistic problems or challenges in today's school-based athlertic programs

Questions for discussion are presented at the end of each case to assisst the reader in assessing the specifics of each case and evaluating various courses of action

SOURCES OF PROBLEMS FOR ATHLETIC ADMINISTRATORS

Difficulties, challenges and problems in athletics seemingly occur in almost every program, almost on a daily basis. This is unfortunate but it is also reality. These challenges and problems can involve any number of different individuals, constituencies and groups including, but not limited to, coaches, spouses, athletic and central school administrators, athletes, teachers, staff, parents, volunteers, boosters, fans, news media, as well as members of the community (the general public). Successful handling of such difficulties demands not only a significant amount of time and effort on behalf of athletic administrators but also necessitates a great deal of patience and skill as well as appropriate and timely decision making and risk taking.The sample problems and challenges presented within this book are unique and are taken from all aspects of individual and team competitive sports, both on and off the so-called practice and/or playing fields—within a school-based, competitive athletic program. Some problems are associated with actions (or inactions) by individuals. Some problems arise because of contrasting philosophies and priorities of organizations, individuals and/or groups. Some are based on legal problems or interpretations of the law. Other difficulties are team centered. Some are based on controversial issues. And still others emanate from the policies, procedures, practices, priorities and philosophy(ies) of the school and/or athletic department and related entities.

If athletic administrators are to enjoy success in their positions of important decision makers and leaders within the world of sport they must be able to appropriately handle a wide variety of problems and challenges, in a timely and appropriate manner, regardless of their source. Problems happen and only the appropriately educated, experienced, competent, professional and skilled athletic administrators are going to find success in their roles as sport managers over the long haul.

BENEFITS FOR READERS

Current as well as would-be school-based athletic administrators, at all levels, will find the content and organization of this book helpful in their efforts to successfully meet the challenges and resolve many of the problems posed by the ever increasing complexity of amateur athletic competition in this country. The specific benefits that can be derived from reading this book and working through the cases studies are threefold. First of all, readers will be able to develop a better understanding of the principles and concepts behind the processes and tasks associated with problem solving (within the athletic department).

Second, readers should be better able to make appropriate and timely decisions in terms of preventing and resolving a wide range of difficulties and challenges associated with the controversial, paradoxical and enigmatic world of school sports, both today and in the future. This is possible through the review of the various case studies. And, finally, readers will also be able to gain valuable experience and practice in establishing various strategic action plans (SAPs), under a variety of different scenarios, by means of working through the unique set of questions that accompany each case study.

Since school sports exist now and in the future as wholesome and productive learning environments for youngsters of all ages, it is imperative that there be available competent sport administrators, managers and leaders—skilled and experienced in preventing and resolving problems. Such administrators need to be intimately involved in the planning, implementation, management and evaluation of quality sports programs. Today, problem solving is a necessary part of the repertoire or arsenal of any successful athletic administrator. Helping those given the responsibility for overseeing and managing athletic departments/programs, at all levels of competitive school-based athletic programs, to develop competencies in the art and the science of problem solving, is what this book is all about.

CONTENTS

SECTION I: INTRODUCTION TO PRINCIPLES, PROCESSES AND STRATEGIES OF PROBLEM SOLVING

Chapter 1: Fundamental Principles of Problem Solving in Athletic Administration
Chapter Objectives
Introduction to Problem Solving for Athletic Administrators
Addressing Problems and Meeting Challenges
An Overview of Problems and Problem Solving
The Process of Problem Solving—An Art and a Science
Being a Competent Problem Solver
The Abundance of Challenges and Problems within Athletic Circles
Problem Solving and the Element of Timeliness
Efficiency and Effectiveness in the Problem Solving Process
An Essential Element of Effective Problem Solving—Quality Communication Skills
Personal and Professional Consequences of Problem Solving
Efforts Dealing with Problems via the Crisis Mode
The Ultimate Power and Awesome Responsibility of Athletic Directors
Assumption of Risks and Reactions to Problems and Challenges
The Difficulty of Solving Problems Preventing versus Solving Problems
A Question of Preventing Problems
The Matter of Control and Responsibility
The Importance of Wise Decision Making
The Importance of Standard Operating Procedures, Policies and Priorities (SOPPPs)
Making Exceptions to Standard Operating Procedures, Policies and Priorities Problem Solving—A Matter of Timeliness
Another Example of Inappropriate Timing in Solving Problems
Conclusion
Exercises for Chapter One
References
Chapter 2: Problem Solving Processes in Athletic Administration
Chapter Objectives
The Process of Resolving and Solving Problems
Problem Solving and Political Realities
The Process versus End Results
The Need to Educate Others in Terms of the Reality of the Situation(s)
Solving Problems and Dealing with People
Assigning Blame and the Problem Solving Process
The Legality of Problem Solving
The Need for Caring Problem Solvers
Problem Solving and Decision Making in Light of Ethical Considerations
Controversy and the Problem Solving Process
Conclusion
Exercises for Chapter Two
References
Chapter 3: Problem Solving Strategies and Tactics in Athletic Administration
Chapter Objectives
Addressing the Challenges of Problem Solving
Planned and Anticipatory Management versus Crises Management
Remaining Politically Astute as an Athletic Administrator and Problem Solver
Becoming Personally Involved with the Problem Solving Process
Appropriate and Timely Decision Making
Conclusion
Exercises for Chapter Three
References
Chapter 4: Strategies Fling with Legal Problems and Challenges
Chapter Objectives
Understanding the Legal Aspect of Managing Sport
The Range of Laws, Regulations, Rules and Legal Requirements Pertaining to Sport
Title IX and Gender Equity
The Use of Internet-Based Surveys
The Role of Women in Sports Today
Liability and Risk Management
Risk Management
Negligence
Failure to Warn Participants
Responding to Accidents and Injuries
Risk Management Audits
Conclusion
Exercises for Chapter Four
References
Chapter 5:Strategies for Establishing and Maintaining Productive Interpersonal Relationships Chapter Objectives
Developing Relationships with Athletes
Developing Relationships with Staff
Developing Relationships with Advisers
Developing Relationships with Family Members
Developing Relationships with Higher Administrators and Superiors
Developing Relationships with Others
Dealing with Adversity—And Surviving
The Necessity of Possessing Product Knowledge
How to Professionally Handle Criticism
Conclusion
Exercises for Chapter Five
References

SECTION II: THE CASE METHOD AND PROBLEM SOLVING

Chapter 6: Problem Solving via the Case Study Approach
Chapter Objectives
(1) Problems with Athletes
(2) Problems with Athletic Coaches
(3) Problems with Other Individuals
(4) Problems with Controversial Issues
(5) Problems with Policies, Practices, Procedures, Priorities and Philosophies
(6) Problems with Legal Matters Associated with Sport
(7) Problems with Special Situation
Suggestions for Reviewing Individual Case Studies
Questions for Discussion
The Value of a Strategic Action Plan (SAP)
An Explanation of How the Case Studies are Presented
Reality-Based Cases
The Benefits of Utilizing the Case Study Method
In Studying Problem Solving in Athletic Administration
The Use of Small Group Discussion in the Case Study Method
The Use of the Case Study Method by Individuals
Concluding Statements on the Use of the Case Study Method
Conclusion
Exercises for Chapter Six
References
Chapter 7: Problems with Athletes
Chapter Objectives
Case #1: The Case of the Athlete Dismissed from the Team
Case #2: The Case of the Negative Atmosphere
Case #3: The Case of the Missing Equipment and Supplies
Case #4: The Case of the Ineligible Athlete
Case # 5: The Case of Poor Substituting during a Contest
Case # 6: The Case of the Athletic Team Boycott
Case # 7: The Case of Athletes Pushing for a New Sport
Case # 8: The Case of Athletes Demanding More Meal Money for Away Contests
Case # 9: The Case of Athletes Damaging Equipment and Facilities
Case #10: The Case of the Transportation Problems for Injured Athletes
Case #11: The Case of Athletes Dressing Like Slobs
Case #12: The Case of the Super Star’s Recruitment for College
Case #13: The Case of the Player’s Eligibility
Case #14: The Case of the Questionable Conditioning of Athletes
Case #15: The Case of Athletes Demanding a Coach Be Fired 1778
Chapter 8: Problems with Athletic Coaches
Chapter Objectives
Case #16: The Case of the Uninvolved Coach
Case #17: The Case of the Future of the Would-be Coach
Case #18: The Case of the Two Coaches Who Worked Closely Together
Case #19: The Case of Remembering the Past
Case #20: The First-Time Losing Coach
Case #21: The Very Unhappy Coach
Case #22: The Case of Handling the Disorganized Coach
Case #23: The Case of the Coach’s Inappropriate Appearance
Case #24: The Case of the Expectations of Coaches
Case #25: The Case of the Negative Motivation by the Coach
Case #26: The Case of Dealing with an Overly Conservative Coach
Case #27: The Case of the Coach Who Couldn’t Follow Directions
Case #28: The Case of the Inconsiderate and Unthinking Coach
Case #29: The Case of the Softball Coach Wanting a 9-5 Working Day
Case #30: The Case of the Person Who Quits Coaching but Remains as a Teacher
Chapter 9: Problems with Other Individuals
Chapter Objectives
Case #31: The Case of the Athletic Directing Making Important Decisions too Quickly
Case #32: The Case of the Impolite Non-athletic Administrator
Case #33: The Case of the Coach Driving Cheerleaders Home
Case #34: The Case of Crisis Management
Case #35: The Case of the Athletic Director Faced with the Tough Decision
Case #36: The Case of the Broken-down Coach
Case #37: The Case of the Problem between the Coach and the Custodian
Case #38: The Case of Impressing the New Boss
Case #39: The Case of the Forgetful Athletic Director
Case #40: The Case of Influential Fundraising Contacts
Case #41: The Case of the Problem with the Media
Case #42: The Case of the Indispensable Athletic Director
Case #43: The Case of the Athletic Director with the Difficult Superior/Boss
Case #44: The Case of the Sloppily Made Newsletter
Case #45: The Case of the Improper Delegation
Chapter 10: Problems with Controversial Issues
Chapter Objectives
Case #46: The Case of the Coach’s “Boarded-up” office Windows
Case #47: The Case of the Promotion of the Would-be Big Time Program
Case #48: The Case of the Potential Rival and a New Boss
Case #49: The Case of the Impending Marriage
Case #50: The Case of the Rent-a-Coach Problem
Case #51: The Case of the Partying Coach
Case #52: The Case of the Would-Be head Coach
Case #53: The Case of the Reluctant Complainer
Case #54: The Case of New AD Criticizing (in Public) Previous AD &Current Staff
Case #55: The Case of an Ad Administering by Walking Around (ABWA)
Case #56: The Case of the Secret Budget Process
Case #57: The Case of the Code of Conduct
Case #58: The Case of Hazing on the High School Team
Case #59: The Case of the Inefficient Concession Stand
Case #60: The Case of Too Many Fundraising Projects
Chapter 11: Problems with Policies, Practices, Procedures, Priorities and Philosophies
Chapter Objectives
Case #61: The Case of Having to Pass to Play
Case #62: The Case of the Problematic Vacation Policies
Case #63: The Case of the Questionable Travel Squad
Case #64: Applying for an Administrative Position
Case #65: The Case Involving the Coach’s Little Kids
Case #66: The Case of Having to Pay to Play
Case #67: The Case of Accountability in Evaluating Coaches
Case #68: The Case of the Awards Ceremony
Case #69: The Case of the Part-time Coach being Bumped by a Full-time Teacher
Case #70: The Case of the Athletic Shoe Purchase
Case #71: The Case of the New Facility
Case #72: The Case of the Problematic Departmental Handbook
Case #73: The Case of the Request for the Cheerleading Squad to Accompany the Basketball Team on the Team Bus
Case #74: The Case of Planning for the Athletic Banquet
Case #75: The Case of Creating Corporate Sponsorship
Chapter 12: Problems with Legal Matters
Chapter Objectives
Case #76: The Case of Drug Testing for Athletes
Case #77: The Case of the Transportation problems for Injured Athletes
Case #78: The Case of the Thunderstorm and the Soccer Contest
Case #79: The Case of the Unprotected Attractive Nuisance
Case #80: The Case of the Altered Purchase Order
Case #81: The Case of the Mime Beautiful
Case #82: The Case of the Unfair Treatment Charge
Case #83: The Case of Violence in Sports
Case #84: The Case of the Sneaky Title IX Compliance
Case #85: The Case of Inadequate Crowd Control
Case #86: The Case of the Glass Ceiling
Case #87: The Case of the Football Field Obstacle
Case #88: The Case of the Unsafe Practice Site
Case #89: The Case of the Poorly Organized Game promotion
Case #90: The Case of the Assistant Coach Leading Athletes in the Breaking of Team Rules
Chapter 13: Problems with Special Situations
Chapter Objectives
Case # 91: The Case of the Lack of Goal Setting
Case # 92: The Case of the New Publicity Director
Case # 93: The Case of the Confused Would-be Athletic Coach
Case # 94: The Case of the Athletic Director Starting a New Job
Case # 95: The Case of the Well-meaning Mentor
Case # 96: The Case of the Coach being Told How to Do His Job
Case # 97: The Case of the Athletic Director Hiding in His Office
Case # 98: The Case of the Messy Athletic Director
Case # 99: The Case of Problems Associated with Renting a Facility
Case #100: The Case of the Fiscal Irresponsibility
Case #101: The Case of the Athletic Director Losing a Head Coach Prior to the Start of the Season
Case #102: The Case of the Upgrade to the Facility
Case #103: The Case of the Unkempt Facilities
Case #104: The Case of the Poorly Organized Inventory Process
Case #105: The Case of the Poorly Organized Game Promotion
Appendix

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. William F. Stier, Jr., a distinguished service professor, is the graduate coordinator of Athletic Administration and directs the coaching certification program and the sports management concentration at the College at Brockport, State University of New York. He has spoken at over 222 international, national, regional and statewide conferences and has authored over 380 scholarly articles in 99 international, national, regional and state scholarly publications. Twenty-eight of Dr. Stier's recent publications include twenty-five books, one CD, a monograph, and a co-edited book. This is his twenty-sixth book! He presently serves as editor of two scholarly, refereed (blind review) professional journals: The Physical Educator and the International Journal of Sport Management. He is also currently listed in Who's Who in International Education and has received numerous honors and awards.