Posted by ButterBall Devil on April 24, 09 at 12:08:37:
In Reply to: Grandfather Sun Devil Club Donations posted by Rande Grover on April 21, 09 at 18:55:59:
Obviously, this issue is very sensitive, noting your several responses, and I understand your perspective, of having supported the athletic program for so many years. I too have had FB and BB season tickets - my FB tickets date back to Goodwin Stadium, when my grandfather had them. I am on the 50 yard line, Section 7. I remember attending games when dozens of buses would bring fans in from restaurants, clubs, etc., and fill the north parking lot. Back in the '60's, this was the only game in town.
What is clear to me is that the financial picture of "big time" Div I athletics has changed remarkably over time. when I see where Mike Stoops is going to get $1MM (in the next few days from the ABOR), based on "his success" at au, I realize that the competitiveness of this market is crazy. (The au fans were convinced that Stoops was going to Iowa State a few months ago - because he was just a coaching "stud".)
As we all know, the athletic department is "self supporting and sustaining", and does not use ASU funds. There are costs - principally payroll and benefits - which are effectively uncontrollable. Anyone involved with a "service" business knows this is true.
I think ASU does a good job of getting corporate funds - I know there are complaints about the advertising, placards, etc., at SDS, but I view all of that as more money for the program. Look at the Cards lawsuit vs. ASU over the ad revenues, etc. This is "big time" business, yet the total revenues barely cover the costs of the operations. Same issue regarding re-scheduling game times for TV. Sometimes the exposure and revenue are worth the sweat.
Think about the cost of the scholarships provided by the Sun Angel Fdn. As tuition increases, then the budget for scholarships has to increase as well or ASU has to cancel "non-revenue" sports. Consider the upgrades to the facilities - weight room, locker room, etc. - which in some regards are still less than adequate. Thank God for folks like the Weatherups, Carsons, Riches, the Sol Diablos, etc.
I believe Lisa Love has done an effective job of bringing reality to the situation. The threatened elimination of wrestling, swimming, etc., was not a ploy to squeeze certain fans and supporters - it was done just like any other enterprize is doing in these tough times.
So until I hear that the ASU coaches and admin folks are getting salaries, percs, benefits, etc., which are out of line - which they are not - DE is in the "middle" of the PAC in terms of compensation, for example - I continue to support the program, and will have faith that the "asks" are necessary.
Also, yes - no doubt - last season's FB team "struggled". Get over it; hopefully the team and coaches have. ASU probably won't go to a BCS bowl game this season either. Too bad we can't just bring in some free agents and turn the program around over night. Think how mediocre SC and Cal were several years ago. Let's give this current administration the support - including financially - to get ASU to the same level of consistency, instead of grousing about one bad season.
I wish I could still buy a McDonald's hamburger for $0.10, or buy gas for $0.15 a gallon. I wish I could still get a Walt Ditzen designed ASU program for $0.25.
I think holding onto the number of tickets you have is terrific - I assume you bring friends, family, etc. I understand your frustration is due to a heartfelt desire to continue to support ASU athletics, but that the cost may be nearing a tipping point.
Although it is presumptive of me to give you any advice, because I don't know you or your circumstance, you might see if the "next generation" of yours is able and willing to start supporting the program, and taking some of the responsibility off of your back. That is what my folks did, and I stepped up quite a while ago.