Oct. 23, 2005
Over the past few months I've had the opportunity to answer dozens of emails directed to the "Ask the AD" on a more personal basis. Those of you who are reading this know that, in many cases, I have corresponded with you directly in answer to your question. It's been a pleasure doing so, and I'm hopeful that the information I've been able to share with you has been beneficial in conveying the appropriate answer, direction or vision we have here in the NAAA. Over the last couple of weeks, most likely due to the beginning of school and now that our teams are in action, I've received a number of emails so, therefore, I thought I would simply address the group at large and share that information with our fans and friends. Please don't hesitate to keep the questions coming and know that I enjoy very much keeping you up to date. I've made every effort to address every question that has been asked, but if I've missed you personally or yours is not included in this recent group, please don't hesitate to send it back to me, and I promise to respond immediately.
On another note and generally speaking, I hope you're as enthusiastic about the fall season to date as we are. We've had some tremendous competitions and reasonable success. A number of our programs are off on the right foot, and I have no reason to believe that this will not be another outstanding year for Navy Athletics. Representing our alumni, friends, and the Brigade in a way that instills pride and confidence, is always our goal, and we all thank you for the tremendous support you continue to display in so many ways, including attending the events in record numbers. Keep the faith! Let's continue to communicate and always know that there is a very high level of gratitude for the Navy family and your loyalty to our coaches and midshipmen.
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1.) Congratulations on a great job so far. One big thing is sorely deficient; the sound system. We sit in Section 5, Row 30 and cannot hear a thing. The Chaplain's prayer, as well as the Glee Club, could not be heard. We can hear the noise from the concessions better than anything coming from the field. Are there any plans to remedy this situation? Ben Cote
ANSWER: I agree we've had a little difficulty with the sound system at the stadium. Recently we installed a number of speakers in the South end zone in addition to that which is in the big board just above the '53 Pavilion. Last Saturday for the Air Force game, our Operations Staff was absolutely certain that everything was in order and had tested it at least two times prior to kickoff. I'm afraid the excessive rain might have caused some problems that unfortunately surfaced just before the pre-game ceremonies. What's bothering me is that when the PA system was first installed, I was getting complaints from people in "downtown Annapolis" that it was too loud. Needless to say, we had more power, clarity, and projection than we needed. We've done extensive work to try to bring the system back to its original state, and I would expect that you'll hear a significant difference for the next home game.
2.) I do not understand why the tradition, one that I have seen since 1959, of the Brigade cheering for their opponents and turning and cheering for Navy was replaced by some lame singing of something that I surely could not have recognized. Some things just shouldn't be messed with.
Also, what happened to the portable toilets on the gold side?? John Menocal
ANSWER: I've had a number of alumni and friends mention that they miss the traditional hat-trick cheer and our salute to the visiting team. The changes were made by the Brigade Staff to simply mix it up a bit and introduce a new dimension of spirit through the pre-game songs. I understand from a number of people that there are mixed emotions about this decision. However, I assure you it's being reviewed and regardless of what takes place, I'm hopeful that you'll cheer with the Brigade or sing along as they generate spirit in anticipation of the game.
Also, the toilets were an oversight...by the staff...no excuses...a bone fide mistake.
3.) Chet, there are rumors in Navy Football circles that we are going to play a football game in Ireland - what's the tie in (2009)? Paul Kirby
ANSWER: We've been working on a contract with Notre Dame for quite some time which includes a visit to Ireland, with the game a ways down the road. The home-and-home series remains for the most part intact, both in South Bend and on the East Coast. However, Notre Dame has asked that we take one game to Dublin in a year no sooner than 2012. The current contract calls for an extension to the series through 2016. Therefore, there are a number of opportunities to visit the Emerald Isle. Specifically to the point, a game in Dublin will most likely happen as a result of this ten-year contract extension.
4.) I agree that what John Feinstein did on the air during the Duke game was wrong. I do believe he was sincerely contrite for what he did.
He really adds a lot to the broadcasts. His candor is so refreshing, and his insight adds a lot.
You have an outstanding broadcasting team with Bob, John and Omar. Please keep John as part of the team. Peter Muller
ANSWER: John apologized immediately and knew that he had made a mistake. When I was notified of the matter, I told him to relax and we'd discuss it at some point after the game. It's clear to me that it was just that - a mistake. In the end, we felt that it was in everyone's best interest to simply move on and put it behind us. John's an outstanding contributor to this program and someone who we all respect very much. There is no way that he would ever be premeditated in anything that would be detrimental to what our Academy stands for. He will remain a member of our broadcast team.
5.) According to the 2005 Media Guide, Navy has yet to complete the 2008 football schedule. If this is still correct, what are the possibilities of scheduling one or two of the following schools: Baylor, Texas A&M, Idaho, Maine, New Hampshire, VMI, Ohio University, Montana, or Michigan State? Thank you. Erik D'Andrea
ANSWER: We have completed the 2008 football schedule. In that year we have some significant opponents as it stands today; Wake Forest, Pittsburgh, Connecticut, Notre Dame, Rutgers, Duke, etc. They represent just one level of challenge, not to mention everyone else on the schedule is a tough opponent. Of the teams you list, we do have VMI on the schedule in the future, but the others are not on the slate today.
6.) Sir, can you provide a progress report on Max Bishop Stadium? Gary Rash
ANSWER: The Baseball Stadium is moving along at a rapid pace. We have removed all the bleacher sections and will reinstall new chair-back seating by this spring. In addition, we're going to be adding an indoor batting cage, update the locker room for the team, add new exterior brick arches around the perimeter, and install a new playing surface. Through the generosity of a wonderful alumnus, Ron Terwilliger, we have been funded through the first phase of this renovation but will need some significant help from our Friends of Navy Baseball as the complete renovation unfolds. We hope to have most of the project completed by this spring. There are some loose ends that will be finished through the course of the summer.
7.) It seems to me that Navy, as well as Army, would be well suited for the MAC Athletic Conference. It would give Navy access to two Bowl Games and, if Army also joined and was put in a different division, there would be a possibility of two Navy-Army football games in the same year. William Bevins
ANSWER: As it stands today, independence serves us well. We have full control of our television scheduling, sources of income, and over the last two years, Bowl opportunities. The Army/Navy game is truly a very special event, and I don't believe playing them twice in the same season would serve us well. Currently with the success we're having in football, we have already been approached by a number of Bowls should we meet the NCAA minimum for Bowl eligibility, that being six wins.
8.) I know you served as AD for Tulane University, and I have many family members who are from New Orleans, so the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina has personally affected me as well. I know Tulane lost a lot of their athletic department simply because of the location on the ground level. I have worked-out there many times while visiting family in New Orleans for the Holidays, and they always treated me well. I had an idea for our Homecoming Game, and I wanted to know how to push forward with this. I was thinking of trying to collect one dollar from every fan at the Navy-Tulane game to donate strictly to their Athletic Department. We had over 36,000 fans at our house versus Stanford, and while I know that doesn't go far in terms of rebuilding, but I thought it would be an awesome gesture. Thanks for your time. Very respectfully, Ryan Roeling #67 Varsity Football
ANSWER: Ryan, thanks for your wonderful thought and please know that we are putting together a plan that will support Tulane University and specifically their athletic program in a very significant way. I imagine when we're finished with the relief we will provide them for hotel, meals, and transportation, the Naval Academy's contribution to their program could be in the vicinity of $100,000. Whereas we can control our gift by managing it from within the NAAA, the donations at the gate won't be necessary. Thanks for your wonderful spirit and interest in helping our special friends in New Orleans.
9.) Can you provide an update to the Division I hockey study? Has there been any coordination with Air Force or Army, who fund and operate successful DI programs under similar constraints as we do? As an alumni and Minnesotan, I'm concerned that we are losing some quality student-athletes from "hockey-rich" parts of the country to our sister academies. E. K. Wilson
ANSWER: This year we are conducting a Physical Mission Study which will review virtually every aspect of Varsity Sports, Club Sports, Intramurals, Physical Education, and Physical Readiness Testing. Through this study, committees will take a very comprehensive look at our Club Sports programs offered and the organizational structure under which they operate. Ice Hockey is on the agenda for study, and although we have conducted some preliminary studies over the past two years regarding its possible elevation to Varsity status, this year will bring it to a head, one way or the other. I would imagine by early spring, we'll have some clear direction and a formal position on the future of Ice Hockey at either a Club or Varsity level.
10.) I am an ardent Notre Dame fan and have had two sons graduate from that institution. With that in mind, I have seen the Irish play all of the service academies on many occasions, but due to the relationship that ND shares with Navy, ND-Navy games have been the most predominate. Although ND owns an overwhelming record versus Navy, I would like to compliment and praise the Naval Academy---football team and Midshipmen---for the manner by which they have presented themselves on each occasion that I have been fortunate to be present. Although undersized, on the field, I have never seen a more dedicated, determined and hard-working group that puts egos aside and embraces the team concept. We have also had the opportunity to meet and speak with several of the Midshipmen who have attended games, and the impression that has been left with us is nothing short of stellar. They have always been polite, friendly, courteous and enjoyable in sharing conversation. Given the state of the world in which we now live, even more impressive is the commitment that these individuals have made. After attending ND-Navy games and watching the performance of your student body---both on and off the field---I feel that the future security of the nation is in exceptional hands. I also feel that the football relationship between Notre Dame and the naval Academy is much more than wins and losses, and hope that this relationship is never terminated. Except for one Saturday each fall, I am a huge Navy fan. John Corbett
ANSWER: John, thank you very much for your comments and taking the time to construct such a thoughtful note. As it stands today, we're waiting for a contract to be returned by Notre Dame which would extend the series through 2016. Notre Dame has publicly confirmed their commitment. Needless to say, Navy is aboard. The conditions of the contract that were important for Notre Dame have been satisfied, so it's simply a matter of their returning the signed document. I'm sure you know the history of the Navy/Notre Dame relationship, whereas it is conveyed by the media every year just prior to our game. It's something that is respected by alumni from both institutions, and I am confident that we will put this to bed shortly.
11.) Let me cut to the chase...I'd like to see the USNA play the University of Utah in the future. What the heck, non-BCS -- yet winning program - Mountain West Conf - like New Mexico, Air Force, etc. Captain Mike Taylor, USN
ANSWER: I have respect for the University of Utah and appreciate their program very much. As it stands today, we've scheduled a game with Nevada from that area of the country. A game with Utah would work; it's just a matter of mutual scheduling opportunities and some interest on both parties. I'd certainly be glad to look into it and let's see if anything evolves.
12.) I have been a season ticket holder for 4 or 5 years. Your staff has done an outstanding job to respond to all my requests!!! Thanks for making Navy Sports a pleasant experience. John Buschman
ANSWER: Thanks, John, I really appreciate the comment. I'll pass it on to my staff. Know that we are dedicated to customer service in every aspect of our organization. I apologize to those when we fall short, but please know our intention has always been the convenience and consideration for our loyal and very much appreciated alumni and fan base.
13.) An annual Navy-Maryland rivalry in football??? I think it's a great idea, provided that Navy continues to improve its ability to compete on the field with teams like Maryland and Notre Dame. Maryland talked about playing at FedEx Field...A VERY BAD IDEA!!!! I believe that the Ravens Stadium is the ideal venue and has a much friendlier atmosphere. It allows for after-game festivities and brings great revenue to the State of Maryland and Baltimore. If you decide to continue this rivalry...my vote is Baltimore, hands down!! George Economides
ANSWER: We all had a fine day when we played Maryland. It was a wonderful football game; very evenly matched. Just about a full house in Ravens Stadium; national television exposure and a tremendous buildup to the contest during game week. I've had some discussions with the Athletic Director at Maryland, and right now we're both considering another match up in the future. I don't believe there's anything that should preclude us from finding a date down the road.
14.) Class of '81 may be interested in sponsoring a trophy given to the service academy that claims the most sports victories over the other service academies in a given year. This is similar in concept to the Commander-in-Chief's Trophy. Except it extends to the record in all sports, or at least a subset of sports where the academies compete against each other. Would there be any interest in this from the USNA? Jim Ahlgrimm
ANSWER: Jim, the problem is that we don't play each other in many sports. The distance between Air Force and West Point, and Air Force and Annapolis, is such that it's cost prohibitive to regularly send out teams. The same holds for Air Force and their ability to fund considerable travel to the East Coast when they have the demands of the Mountain West to deal with. Obviously, Army and Navy compete in just about everything that we offer. However, the Air Force tie is something we've talked about on many occasions but haven't been able to resolve for financial reasons. Keep in mind that although an Army/Navy/Air Force sports trophy and rivalry is a wonderful idea, we get quite a bit of mileage as it currently stands out of our N* competition exclusively with Army.
15.) I was wondering if there was an update on the replica jersey conversation. I would really like to find a David Robinson jersey. Tremain Dunn
ANSWER: Tremain, the football side of the equation was taken care of. The basketball has been a little more difficult. Right now our vendor is the Nike Corporation for our replica jerseys and although we have a football deal with Nike, we do not have the same relationship with regard to basketball. The best advice I can give you would be to call or write the "Midshipmen's Store" on the Yard, or "Peppers", which is an apparel shop down on Main Street in Annapolis and voice your interest in the product. We'll do the same, and see if we can't talk each of them into the product. They're really good, and they are both partner of ours so, hopefully, they'll buy into your suggestion.
16.) I'm a mustang Naval Officer, still on active duty and coaching NCAA Div III football in Texas. Do you ever have non-academy alumni assigned to Navy as coaches, or serving as administrative staff in the Athletic Department? LT Brian Haack
ANSWER: Brian, the NCAA dictates the number of coaches that we can have affiliated with the football team. They have very strict guidelines in terms of who can be on the field, the number who can recruit, when they can recruit, how many administrative assistants we may have, etc. Having said that, we do have a number of non-Academy alumni working in our department, both as administrators and coaches. Actually I'm a Boston College graduate. Therefore, the answer to your question is yes and to a fairly significant degree.
17.) Regarding the football schedule for 2008, have you had any contact with Virginia Tech? With their large Corps of Cadets and proximity to Annapolis, it seems like a good fit. High profile game as well. Thanks, Chet. Jim Bost
ANSWER: Jim, as far as Virginia Tech's concerned, they certainly represent an awful lot of "fire power". However, our schedules are set through at least 2009, and as a result playing Tech is not in the cards at this point.
18.) I'm a life-long Navy fan!!!! I live in Husker country so you'd be surprised how many people look at me when I say Navy is my favorite team! I was in the Navy for about a year and got out due to some medical problems and could [not ?] go to the Academy cause of my grades but love the Mids! GO NAVY, BEAT ARMY!!!!! Robert Pfund
ANSWER: The closest we've come to Nebraska has been Texas and Oklahoma. I had a call last year from the AD at Nebraska asking if we were interested in playing a football game. However, we had a full schedule and couldn't do it. We have some pretty significant games in the near future, which include Pittsburgh, Wake Forest, Washington, Stanford, Notre Dame, etc. Therefore, we're playing somewhat comparable competition; it's just a matter of finding a spot in a given year. Our philosophy which has contributed to our success is to play four games against teams where we'd be the underdog; four teams where we're even; and four teams where we should be the favorite. Balancing the schedule in this manner is what has kept us competitive, healthy, and going to Bowl Games. If I could replace one of the teams in our schedule with Nebraska where it'd make sense, we could play them. In the meantime, we're pretty well locked down.
19.) What happened to the Patriot Bowl? I recall reading about the game that was supposed to be a season-opening game between a service Academy against a MAC team from Ohio in Cleveland. Joe
ANSWER: The Patriot Bowl seemed to die on the vine. There were some people in Cleveland who had some enthusiasm for it and, for whatever the reason, they just stopped pursuing the idea. I'm not sure if a new administration in Cleveland will regenerate a proposal, but in the meantime we're moving forward with our scheduling, and this is an issue that is not on the front burner.
20.) Why are mandatory football games scheduled on our 3-day weekends when we have very little free time to begin with!! MIDN 2/C Michael McHugh
ANSWER: Michael, there are only so many weekends that are set aside for fall football games. We have to juggle our schedule with our opponents, and television plays a factor in terms of where and when we play our games. Saturday afternoon at 1:30 is the preferred time by a majority of our fans. Football scheduling is done years in advance, and based on the time and date limitations that we have, the games are played when they can most logically be scheduled. The good news is the tradition seems to continue that Midshipmen are granted liberty every time that football wins a home game. So I guess there are two sides to the coin, and in the bigger picture, that's meant about five weekends for some who would not have normally realized it. It's like everything in life, there're trade-offs, and all in this case are with good intention.
21.) Hello, Chet. My wife and I spent four years attending Navy football games, and we cherished every minute of it. Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium is a wonderful place to watch an event. To enhance the atmosphere, I would like to suggest fight some music from around the country of other schools. We notice at Notre Dame, fight songs being played from around the country. It really puts an individual in a "football mood." The volume of the music should be more background so fans may visit and not have to shout to hear one another. It was very exciting to see the Midshipmen get into the spirit of the games the last two seasons! Thanks for guiding a GREAT program! Larry D. Candeto
ANSWER: Thanks, Larry, for your suggestion. We'll look at it and determine if it seems to be appropriate. To be perfectly honest with you I like to further promote the Navy and Marine Corps theme. Nevertheless, playing fight songs from various schools would bring a dimension of spirit and, hopefully, not confusion to our fans who are very traditional in their thinking. Let me think about it with our staff, and let's see how it "plays out."
22.) In Army vs. Navy, what is a Star game? What determines a Star game? Also, any time set for this year's Army/Navy game? Thanks! Russell Mehrer
ANSWER: Russell, when Army plays Navy, it can be designated as an N* game. We rotate each year being either home or away, and there is a cycle that's been established that determines the actual N* contest. Our coaches and athletes know which one it is, and as a result has greater meaning in many respects. We keep accurate statistics regarding the number of victories that each institution achieves. Navy has dominated the N* competition for a number of years, including last year, and it brings a greater sense of pride and enthusiasm to the athletes as they proudly display a Star on their letter sweater and we fly the N* pennant on the yardarm inside of Gate 1. All the sports in which we mutually compete have a designated N* game and that calculates to 22 contests annually. Last year Navy won 12; Army won 9; and there was one tie.
23.) No question, just a comment.
I learned that the Patriot League has approved a new basketball scheduling plan for the upcoming season. Games will be played on Wednesdays and Saturdays with identical men's and women's schedules. I suspect Navy and NAAA played a big role in bringing about this most positive basketball scheduling change. Thanks and well done to NAAA for bringing common sense to this issue. This will definitely enhance interest (and attendance) in Navy basketball. Andy Waldron
ANSWER: Thanks for the compliment Andy. It makes all the sense in the world to be playing the games as they are now scheduled. I know Billy Lange was very much in favor of this format, and Navy was very much involved in the debate in support of this new format.
24.) How are football players getting out of their five-year active duty obligations to play in the NFL? Andy Bartle '93
ANSWER: Andy, there is a Secretary of the Navy guideline, that allows Naval personnel with special talents that benefit the Navy (in a variety of ways), the opportunity to fulfill two years of active, then six years of reserve, in lieu of their 5-year active obligation. Individuals actively serving apply directly to the SECNAV, and the decision on the optional service opportunity comes out of the Pentagon. At this time, there are no football players in the NFL who have been granted this exception. Recently Kyle Eckel had a tryout with the New England Patriots while on his legitimate post-commissioning leave period. After he was cut in August, he was picked up by the Miami Dolphins but had to report to duty and was not able to participate because his leave expired. In two years he may apply for the "reserve option", but that decision will be made by the SECNAV. The opportunity to apply is available to anyone in the Navy, not just athletes. For example, if a person is good enough to play violin for the Boston Symphony, that person could apply as well.
25.) Over the past few years I've noticed the baseball team has had some down years. I also heard that this demise coincided with the removal of the JV/Plebe baseball program. With no feeder program for the varsity team, it is difficult for the younger players to get the amount of playing time needed to be competitive when the opportunity presents itself. Is there a plan to revive the JV/Plebe baseball program and bring success back to a proud Navy baseball tradition? Go Navy, Beat Army! Bob Cooper
ANSWER: Bob, I couldn't be more excited about our baseball program. Paul Kostacopoulos is an outstanding coach, and I see him resurrecting the program to the level we've enjoyed in the past. He is analyzing the situation now, and my understanding is that his recommendation will be to continue with a sub-varsity squad. We're in the process of renovating Bishop Stadium, and I honestly believe we'll be back on top of the Patriot League in short order.
26.) With the success you had at the Houston Bowl in 2003, has any consideration been given to have a future Army-Navy game in Houston? Ed Kainer
ANSWER: Ed, three years ago we gave Houston the opportunity to bid on the Army-Navy Game. I was very enthusiastic about the possibility. However, Houston did not follow through with their bid and dropped out of contention. We will be re-bidding the game in a couple of years, and I'm sure Houston will again show some interest. If they do, we'll see how they measure up.
27.) I read a recent commentary in the Capital stating the Navy/Air Force game belonged in Annapolis, not Washington, and commending you for making the change. I agree. We would not have gone to a game in DC, but we did attend the Navy/Air Force game two weeks ago. Even the rain did not diminish the excitement of the event. However, the traffic and crowds did. I realize Annapolis is not the same place it was when I was a Mid (you could walk any place in town in 10 minutes), but it is overwhelmed by the boat Show AND Navy Football. Would it be possible to arrange to have away games (or a game and an off week) during Boat Show weekends? Generally there are two away games during October, why not the Boat Show weekends?
ANSWER: Jerry, we make best efforts to try and schedule games around the Boat Shows. I realize it creates a tremendous amount of confusion. In some years it's impossible to do so, based on the home and away sequence or the availability of dates offered by opponents.
Television also plays a factor on occasion in terms of where and when games are scheduled. For the most part we try to look ahead and work around the conflict. However, this year was a season where we unfortunately had two home games in conflict.
As I look down the road, it happens periodically but in no year do we conflict on two consecutive Saturdays. We'll do our best to address the situation through either scheduling or logistics in conjunction with the City as the conflicts project out.
28.) First of all, let me thank you for the wonderful job you have done as Athletic Director at the Naval Academy. As a graduate of Georgia Southern University and a former resident of Savannah GA, I have watched Coach Johnson through the years, and his teams have always been very exciting to watch. After relocating to Annapolis (working in D.C.), the first thing I did was purchase season tickets for the 2004 season. I purchased them again this year (2005), and I will continue to purchase season tickets as long as I live here. I am growing accustomed to many of the NAVY traditions around the game of football (such as Navy vs. Notre Dame), and I understand the part that plays in the rich history of Navy Football. I also know how important it is for the program to have big "revenue" days where the team has the opportunity to sell out a venue and reap huge profits. Georgia Southern has had to do that every couple of years to help other less profitable athletic programs around the school.
That said do you ever see a point at which Navy will host the Notre Dame game in Annapolis? Navy has not played a true "home game" against Navy in more years than I can remember. When the game IS scheduled for a Navy Home game, it is moved to another venue in New York, New Jersey, or some other location where the Notre Dame fans, because the school is so popular, outnumber the Navy fans. I was 11 years old when Navy last beat Notre Dame. I remember, because that was the first collegiate football game that I ever watched. Navy has not beaten them since, and I NEVER, NEVER, NEVER want them to stop trying. That particular match up, to me represents all that this game embodies. As close as Navy has come in recent years to defeating Notre Dame, I just wonder what would happen if our team had the opportunity to play at HOME.
Again, I understand that this game means so very much to other sports at the Academy, but I honestly wish that our young men could "strap it up" every other home game at home, and give the players at least one opportunity in their career at Navy to play this game in Annapolis. Thank you for your time. Bruce Walters
ANSWER: Thanks, Bruce, for your support. Appreciate your encouragement and especially your appreciation for the football program and the great job Coach Johnson has done leading our team.
Regarding your question pertaining to Notre Dame, it really is not possible to play that game in a 34,000-seat stadium. Although your point regarding home-field advantage is well taken, we could clearly not accommodate the demand for a game against Notre Dame in a venue the size of Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium.
As you know, depending on where we play, the game is always sold out to whatever the capacity of the stadium. In some cases it's 70,000, and it has gone as high as 90,000 in the Meadowlands. The revenue from that contest is significant and not only allows us to pay a very significant guarantee to Notre Dame, but is also critical in meeting the fiscal requirements of our football program.
I appreciate the thought for all your good reasons and in many respects feel as you do. However, the business of Division I intercollegiate athletics simply dictates our continuing to play the game in a large professional venue.
29.) I am a season ticket holder to Navy Football games and have two parking passes.
The Blue side parking is a mess. The mud and manure smell are very disappointing. The problem is not getting better. The rain during the Air Force game meant six inches (and more) of mud. Now the smell is overpowering.
Do you have a quick update to fix the mud and smell problem before Homecoming? Thanks, Tug McGraw
ANSWER: Tug, I'm going to answer your question, but it ties in with three others I received regarding the field condition where we park cars at the stadium.
I am as disturbed about the condition of the field as anyone (the manure smell came from a lack of oxygen in the compressed mud), and especially upset for those who had to park in the mud for the last two games. We have spent thousands of dollars growing grass and irrigating the area over the summer months in our efforts to establish a field that would sustain traffic for the five times a year we use it for football. To see it disintegrate over the course of two weekends was especially disturbing to those who have worked so diligently since the final game of last season to straighten it out.
Our vision is to have a healthy, green grass surface, 365 days a year on which we park only for football games, the Boat Shows, and graduation. Other than that, it would be a great surface the community can use throughout the year as a recreational area.
Eight straight days of rain, coupled with 2 home football games, and six days of Boat Show parking, during that 8-day period, created the situation. It was a matter of unfortunate timing of the weather and the necessity to use the area to accommodate the demand for parking.
Our intent has always been to create a beautiful surface sturdy enough to accommodate our fans tailgating activities and convenient parking. I am not ready to quit on the project and simply return it to a gravel state, which was an esthetic eyesore. We have renovated the stadium and made every effort to beautify the surrounding grounds and the fourteen acres of fields remain a significant part of the project.
On the Monday after the Kent State game, we rolled, dragged, seeded and are watering in an effort to try and regain a reasonable surface before Homecoming. There is, however, only so much we can do in encouraging mother nature.
Know that there are approximately 3,000 parking spaces around the stadium on the asphalt surface. We park the remaining cars on the field. I would suggest in the future, when the weather's inclement, that you make every effort to arrive a little earlier and secure a space on the hard top.
We'll continue to work on the fields which is extremely costly, but a commitment we've made to both our football fans and the neighborhood.
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