#10: GAC Commissioner Prewitt takes to Twitter to break down frustrations with DII postseason selections, using this year’s WBB selections as an example. Across all eight regions, the average KPI rating varies from 14.9 in the central to 48.5 in the east, with the central region being “the only region with any KPI Top 50 teams that didn't make the field.” Further, the central region comprises teams ranked 2 through 30 in KPI and 3 through 18 in Massey. Prewitt concludes: “Really hoping that Division II sport committees will continue exploring metrics that better measure the team quality and look for ways to improve our post-season formats. There are ways to improve the quality of selections while acting in a geographical and economical manner. Look forward to working with my fellow commissioners, sport committees, and other groups to develop solutions for D2 where post-season opportunity isn't restricted for deserving teams based on where you're at on a map.” (link)
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#9: UMary introduced new AD Jones in Bismarck. On the strengths he brings to lead the Marauders: “It’s the reason why we feel that the skill sets that we’ve developed play well. You need to have virtuous leaders who clearly and effectively articulate points and set up plans to tackle problems facing the world. When you think about greatness for virtue isn’t that every one of the key points that we’ve identified here that opportunity to be a leader within that NCAA space. It’s incredibly appealing for me. I’ve had that opportunity within my time at Cal Poly Humboldt and look forward to being a leader here as well.” More. (link)
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#8: The MEC has been granted summary judgment in its case against Franklin University which ran defunct Urbana until it closed in 2020. The ruling by Northern District of West Virginia Chief Judge Kleeh states the MEC Constitution establishes an enforceable contract, Franklin breached that contract by refusing to pay the $150K exit fee and the constitution’s liquidated damages provision is enforceable, thus entitling the league to the full exit fee, which is six-times the annual dues. Spilman Thomas & Battle Lead Attorney Garrison: “This ruling reinforces the notion that the constitutions and bylaws of athletic conferences that include an exit fee are enforceable contractual agreements between the conference and its members. This is a significant win for the MEC and its member institutions. It is also an important and well-reasoned decision in the era of continued conference realignment.” (link)
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#7: Belmont Abbey Assoc. AD of Internal Ops Bates and Assoc. AD of External Ops Reppell will switch roles in a move that, per VP/AD Miss, “exemplifies the WIN, WIN, WIN creative solutions we look to identify and implement here at The Abbey.” (link)
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#6: Alliance’s accreditation with the Middle States Commission on Higher Education is in jeopardy. (link) |
#5: Bemidji State will lay off 23 employees in late May due to enrollment decline that has triggered a $9M revenue loss and a $9M deficit. (link) |
#4: MBB Sweet 16 action took place on March 14th. (link) |
#3: Lander Softball HC Crawford is headed to Columbia (SC - NAIA) to become their next AD. (link) |
#2: New Mexico Highlands elevates Assoc. AD for External Operations Halalilo and Assoc. AD for Internal Operations Deisler to Co-ADs. President Minner: "The combined creativity, experience, and dedication of Jim and Shanna positions NMHU Athletics to move forward into the future. Both have my full and unequivocal support. ... The new executive team in HU Athletics is well-positioned to achieve good outcomes." (link)
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#1: News 5 Cleveland reports Notre Dame (OH) has removed WBB HC Gordon from her position following accusations that she and her ACs bullied and repeatedly directed the N-word at student-athletes. The report indicates AD Swain was alerted during the season and, while the situation temporarily improved, one parent indicates the coaching staff had the team “run lengthy drills while they questioned who reported them to the athletic director.” Another accusation asserts a student-athlete needed to drive a team van during a road trip because the coaches were intoxicated. (link)
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