(06-04-2015 04:17 PM)HuskieJohn Wrote: I think Frazier really wants to stay for an extended time BUT I think he needs to see some fruit from all of his hard work with people filling the stands.
What exactly has he done? Let's check it off (my admittedly uninformed outside looking in opinion).
List:
1. More butts in seats -- no. not really.
No check.
2. Winning? -- We were winning before and continued it.
Half a check here.
3. better tv contract? - nope (Due to MAC deal. Better on local rights.)
1/2 check.
4. higher revenues - not sure. Benefit of the doubt-
1/2 check.
5. Resurrected NIU basketballl-- remains to be seen. Incomplete for now.
6. upgraded schedule? hmmm. Yes - on the surface. Will the upgraded schedule lead to increase attendance? increased buzz? not hurt win- loss percentage? better position NIU for better bowl opportunities? (e.g., Did fans come to see Maryland v, NIU because it was "Maryland" or because it was a ranked team that we had a shot at beating?) Scheduling without proper marketing is not a panacea. I will give
a check here, but with caveats, and with the hope that marketing can parlay the schedule into attendance, attention, etc.
7. Creating a clear vision for the future? hmm. Can't fault him for trying. Got the Chessick completed. Commissioned future plans. But they are just plans. Phillips planned. Groth planned. Is the vision clear? No. Objectively it is not. But, can it be any clearer? No. Given the current landscape, all you can do is continue to take steps forward. Where it leads you in relation to others, only time will tell. But it will lead you further along than where you are, and than were you would be if you just stand still. So, I will give
a cautious check here. But remember, planning without execution is a waste of time.
Sooooo -- in seven categories, he grades at 3 1/2 checks.
Anyone who says he is ready to go and has the record for it, I am not sure that accurately reflects the facts. It appears that if he "wants to accomplish something", then he needs to stay.