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Date Posted: 16:40:46 11/11/01 Sun
Author: USUBlue
Subject: Re: Which BWC school up and beyond the rest?
In reply to: BMF 's message, "Which BWC school up and beyond the rest?" on 14:09:26 11/10/01 Sat

You're exactly right. The real problem with the Big West is that almost all schools have limited alumni support. While certain sports within a school may become trendish or have a particular attraction, long-term development and consistency on a national or mid-national level is almost impossible to achieve without a strong alumni base (read $$$) and attendance.

Without meaning to offend, USU is by far the strongest Big West member in terms of alumni support (read $$$) and in attendance. Surprisingly Idaho is probably 2nd because of a strong grass roots alumni membership drive that's been going on for decades. Media markets and population base does not, and will not, overcome years of strong alumni support.

It is not surprising that USU averages over 8,000 per game in BBall and 20,000 per game in football given over 100 years of alumni based support. What is surprising, and frankly disappointing, is that USU can barely survive on the mid-national level with that kind of support. Big Time athletics has certainly become entertainment about money.

For the Big West to improve on the national scene, most schools need to start by increasing by thousands those that attend the games. Others will pay attention when arenas are full of paying fans.

>My impression of BWC member schools, as a whole, is
>that the conference provides a home for athletics. The
>general goal of these institutions is not necesarily
>to build or grow their programs, but to maintain their
>respective programs and remain financially viable.
>
>I think schools that go beyond this effort are largely
>influenced by alumni and student support/interest -
>but mostly alumni. And I don't see a lot of alumni
>support.
>
>Can onyone highlight what activities are taking place
>within the conference where their appears to be strong
> support (financial/donations)for an athletic program
>and/or sport? For comparison purposes..., I am
>thinking of Fresno State or Big X schools.... and not
>necessarily booster clubs providing cheering sections.

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