We often hear of an athlete's desire to succeed, how nothing trumps getting to the top. We read stories about underdog players and coaches overcoming all odds, rising above obstacles. And those stories are great.
But what if you happened to be one of those obstacles?
Recently, coaches have been leaving Ohio University at an alarming rate. Four coaches have left since March, and there are more than a few reasons. Two were younger coaches who left for larger schools with larger budgets and larger starting salaries. These schools provide better facilities and optimal recruiting bases.
While we can't blame a person in a competitive field for wanting to move up, they leave the Ohio Athletic Department in a difficult situation.
While they are seeking to hire the best and most qualified candidates for the position, the administration must realize that if these individuals experience marginal success in their respective program, they may stay at Ohio for only a few years before moving on to jobs of higher prestige.
At the same time, the administration would not want to hire someone who has connections to the university but may not be as qualified for the position as someone with no relation to Ohio or Athens.
What the administration needs to consider in the interview process is who can best help further the program and establish stability while forming relationships in the area.
Former volleyball coach Geoff Carlston established a legacy by building a self-sustaining program from the ground up and choosing to remain at Ohio for many years, despite receiving other offers.
While we admit such a hire is rare, it's important that the administration consider the way some of our more recent departures have left Ohio.
We're tired of feeling like an obstacle.
Editorials represent the majority opinion of the executive editors.
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After losing several young coaches, Ohio Athletics has a choice to make
