Looking Ahead: A Five-Year Plan for the Lynn University Athletic Department

Author

John McCarthy, Lynn University

Date of Award

6-2002

Document Type

Thesis

Granting Institution

Lynn University

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Degree Program

Sports and Athletic Administration

Department

School of Graduate Studies

First Advisor

Richard A. Young

Abstract

As Athletic Director Dr. Richard Young retires from Lynn University during the summer of 2002, Lynn University athletics faces the challenge of transition in an ever-evolving National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), Sunshine State Conference and University.

During the first 16 years of intercollegiate athletics, Lynn University has amassed an incredible 16 National Championships. During Dr. Young's nine-year tenure at the helm, the athletic program has made the transition from the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) to NCAA Division II, has made the transition into the Sunshine State Conference and has begun a Master's Degree program in Sports and Athletic Administration.

This study analyzed the NCAA, the Sunshine State Conference and Lynn University athletics in today's environment. The reasons that a university supports an athletic department are discussed and analyzed. The author gathered data, survey results, research results and interview information to give rational, thought-out conclusions about the direction of the Lynn University Athletic Department for the next five years.

The study concludes that the University needs to focus on athletic facilities, salary increases for the coaches and athletic administrative staff and the ability to fully combine athletic and academic scholarship money. An important factor in directing this department will be the ability to hire and keep good people. While many other issues are discussed, strong leadership from the Athletic Director will be important to carry out this plan to make the Lynn University Athletic Department more effective for both the University and the student-athletes. When the conclusion of this project is implemented, both the University as a whole and the athletic department in particular will advance. Importantly, the student-athletes will receive a more well-rounded education and better Lynn University experience.

Recommended Citation

McCarthy, J. (2002). Looking ahead: A five-year plan for the Lynn University athletic department [Master's thesis, Lynn University]. SPIRAL. https://spiral.lynn.edu/etds/147