Recently, Ball State University requested student input regarding the direction of the Athletic Department. Tom Collins, the current athletics director, is making a conscious effort to include students in the decision-making process.
An online survey centered on improving four issues affecting the Ball State sports community: the overall perception of the athletic program as a whole, which sport most represented the university, which sport should represent the university and student participation.
The perception of the sports programs at Ball State is poor. Essentially, football and men's basketball are the symbols of athletic programs for universities across the nation. In the case of Ball State, the football and basketball programs have not lived up to their expectations for some time.
In general, the basic lack of success has permeated into a defeatist attitude for students that follow sports. It's safe to say that there is a lack of school spirit because Ball State lacks tradition and storied programs.
OK. The half-cup of water is definitely leaning toward the empty side for Ball State athletics. What can be done to improve the situation?
First, the general public and students need a recognizable sport at BSU. The Athletics Department needs a sport that is associated with the university, in a positive way. Basically, what does BSU Athletics stand for?
Currently, it seems that the Athletics Department is heavily publicizing the football program in hopes of drawing community interest. Though football is America's most popular sport, the Cardinals will never play for a national championship because of its mid-major status. The football team can be successful within the Mid-American Conference and bowl games of lesser importance, yet will never compete on the same level as successful Big Ten programs. The simple fact is that there is a glass ceiling for mid-major Division-I football programs.
Men's basketball should gain the most recognition and publicity at BSU because of its potential for great success. Unlike football, a mid-major in Division I basketball has no limits.
It's conceivable for any school, with a legitimate schedule, to make the NCAA Tournament in March and win. For example, in 1998 Valparaiso, with enrollment of 3,500 students, made the Sweet 16 and captured the nation's attention. Additionally, Gonzaga became a nationally recognized program because of its Cinderella stories during March Madness. Finally, Butler is currently ranked 11th in the ESPN/USA Today Poll, proving that mid-majors can thrive on the national level.
If BSU is trying to achieve recognition on a broad scale, then men's basketball has the potential to fill the void.
Another way to improve the perception of the athletics program is through fan participation. The tailgating experience can be improved through food and alcohol promotions and concerts encouraging more students and community members to support the Cards.
Also, "The Nest" could make Worthen Arena a fun and intimidating place to play if it were larger and more involved. Lastly, when comparing school logos the BSU Cardinal is at the rear of the pack. The actual face of the Athletics Department needs to be easier on the eyes.
Ultimately, the fan support will improve once winning increases. Ball State and Muncie need something that can be embraced with pride and enthusiasm. The Athletics Department has the power to make a difference through a new focus and with the help of students, players and coaches.
Write to Travis attjoneill@bsu.edu
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
