The unofficial online home for fans of the Old Dominion University Monarchs. Part of Collegiate Sports Nation (CSN).

(10-03-2019 09:28 AM)Monarchblue Wrote:  I have a real issue with this money situation. Our admin is blessed with one of the largest budgets for any mid major program, and has been for as long as I can remember. I get that they just built a new stadium (that's another gripe about why they are unable to get any flexibility from the state...ever), but they were crying poor before there were plans to build the stadium. At some point they need to make some tough decisions and figure out how to support Men's Basketball and Football at the level they need to be supported to compete at the top of the mid major world. We support them at that level. They need to show an appreciation of the fan support they receive by making sure that our top programs are competing at a level that is commensurate with that support on a regular basis.

I remember Wood saying, when he was hired, that his goal was for every ODU sport to compete in the top 25% of their conference on a yearly basis. That should have been a warning sign that he was the wrong guy with the wrong approach. The goal should be to win championships... not to finish in the top 4. Frankly, I don't really give a damn if we finish 4th or 7th. It doesn't make a difference at that point. If we aren't competing for championships regularly, we are not where we need to be.

I believe the "top 25%" was stated as a minimal standard set for all programs. Whether it's considered good/bad/indifferent, the statement was not meant to be interpreted as if you're 4th every year then you're ok. Teams should be aiming for championships every year, even though it's highly unlikely to do so. But at worst, you shouldn't be coming in below that.

Now, for some sports programs, that statement will be tested to see if accountability is demanded.