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University of Houston Athletics
Ask the AD
Doug, I really appreciate your support. Thanks for keeping the faith and your loyalty.
I have found that the Houston Chronicle does not provide the level of coverage of college sports for U of H, Rice, and Texas Southern that they deserve in this town. There seems to be a once a week column once school starts, day of game preview and post game coverage at best. Is your sports information department active in providing YTD statistics and feature information on your student/players and assistant coaches? I have only seen "Conference USA Leaders" once a week for football and basketball, and nothing for baseball except line scores that only expand to box scores if the team makes post-season. It is difficult for the casual sports fan to follow a team if they cannot follow box scores or season stats in the paper. I would like to see a more aggressive strategy to raise your school profile in the print and electronic media.
On another subject, I still believe that visible flagpoles behind the scoreboard at Robertson Stadium should display flags from Conference USA in standings order (top to bottom) in a manner similar to the flagpoles in Wrigley Field. It is an attractive visual reminder of the conference and the standings.
Finally, I think a traveling season ticket (trade show type) booth that could set up in building lobbies throughout Houston's business community would add greatly to the team's visibility and make it easy for fans to support the team. I would consider developing partnerships with non-profit and charitable organizations that could provide the volunteers to run the booths in exchange for a small portion of the ticket revenue being contributed to the charitable organization. It becomes a win-win for U of H and the non-profit and ties in the University name brand with a number of high profile community organizations and agencies.
Thanks for the chance to give our thoughts and ideas. See you at the Rice game. (John Kajander)
John you've brought forward some terrific ideas. Specifically, Sport Information is very active in providing a wide array of statistics. If you can find a copy of our media guide for the upcoming football season you'll note that there are dozens of pages of statistics analyzing every angle and accomplishment through the course of a game and season.
We are constantly working with the Chronicle in an effort to try to expand their coverage of college football in our city. Once the season gets rolling and our expected success begins to materialize, I believe you'll find the paper more aggressive in reporting Cougar information. Keep in mind that many of the frustrations we all have with regard to exposure has to do with fielding a successful team. We've struggled in recent years but I see a light at the end of the tunnel and it'll all come together when Dana and Ray have more success.
Finally, we're working on the flags in the stadium now. We've purchased new poles that will add height and visibility. We've opted for our school colors rather than banners for our conference opponents at this point, but your suggestion is well taken.
And on a final note, thanks for your suggestion regarding a traveling season ticket booth. I'll talk to our marketing department about your idea.
I read about the 30 million dollar capital plan in the media guide. Thanks for all your efforts on so many fronts. Can you tell us about this plan? The football media guide looks very sharp this year. (Brian Perschall)
There are two ways to approach a 30 million dollar campaign. One is to actually raise the full amount. The second is to raise a portion of the $30M, invest it over a period of time and with compounded interest realize the goal at some point down the road. For example, if we can raise $3M a year for three straight years and invest the $9M compounded at approximately 12%, we will realize $30M in just a little over 10 years. The $30M fully endows intercollegiate athletic scholarship aid. In the early stages I'd like to try to put the $9M in the bank. Once that's there, we have a guaranteed return in the future that fully endows the education of our student-athletes.
I am a UH Alum in the Austin area. I try to make it back to Houston for as many Cougar football games as possible (otherwise, I am always listening on the web). I notice when I look at newspapers (or newspaper web sites) in the markets of other Texas colleges, that they have some dedicated columnists, reporters, or other information about local (or statewide) college athletics. The FW Star-Telegram and Austin American-Statesman have dedicated coverage of TCU and UT respectively. While I realize that your sphere of influence may be limited in this regard, I would really like to see the Houston Chronicle have coverage (i.e. dedicated space in the paper, and separate link from the Chronicle web page) that covers the spectrum of UH athletics. The Chronicle should recognize UH as an integral part of the sports world in Houston. I would also like to see better-dedicated coverage on local radio sports talk shows, and more game day coverage. They have plenty of it here in Austin for UT. Keep up the good work! (Jonathan Brogdon)
As I mentioned in an earlier question, when our football program begins to emerge in a more successful and prominent way, the Chronicle will provide us with the coverage we deserve. I often use as a point of reference when U of H went to a Bowl game in 1996. The Chronicle coverage at the end of that season was terrific. No one complained and as a matter of fact was very appreciative of how aggressively the Chronicle covered UH football. I've met with Dan Cunningham, the Editor, on numerous occasions and Dan and I agree...success breeds expanded exposure and it's up to us to get it done. I'm certain the Chronicle will follow through on their part. In the meantime they will be covering us on a regular basis. Jerry Wizig is the writer assigned to U of H and once the season starts you'll see a lot more information about Cougar football.
I appreciate the fact that all home games are at 7 pm because it allows us more time on Saturdays to get things done during the day. Many alumni have kids. It also lets us have more time for Tailgating. Let's start a night game tradition for Cougar football. It's cooler and the atmosphere is better at sun down. LSU plays only night games unless they have to switch for TV and everyone over there loves it.
I'm glad to hear that there is a group trying to get a live cougar mascot. It will re-ignite the old tradition. Kids would also love to see a live Coog. We need some more traditions to build upon. We never should have stopped having a live Coog on campus. Thumbs up for night games and a live cougar on campus. (Brian Perschall)
Each season I do everything I can to position our games for 7:00 p.m. Television dictates otherwise on occasion but I agree, it's the best time of the day to kickoff for the reasons you've expressed.
Regarding the live Cougar, there is some momentum in alumni circles regarding specifically that. I'd love to see it happen and will do everything I can to work with the interested groups in trying to make bringing a Cougar back to campus a reality.
First of all, my compliments on what you've helped accomplish with Robertson Stadium. It's really a great place to watch a game.
In the July 26 questions, someone proposed growing ivy on the outside walls. That's fine by me but I specifically want to encourage you to consider planting ivy along the interior sideline walls on the field level (these walls are currently painted red. I think the ivy along the sidelines, coupled with the hedges in the end zones will look great. Do you agree? (Jerry Walters)
I agreed totally. Anything we can do to bring more character to the stadium is a plus. My vision has always been to make it the neatest stadium of its size in the country. This summer, we put another $1.6M into the facility. We have a professional landscaper that is working on the area at this time. I believe you'll be impressed. I'll talk to him about the ivy on the interior walls.
I offer one premature suggestion: when we begin formulating the conference football playoff, instead of the game at some "neutral" field have the game hosted by the school with the best overall record or alternate between home fields of winners of east/west division. Several advantages include a guarantee sellout and reward for loyal fans. (Jim Perdue, Sr.)
There's no question Jim, you're right on with regard to your suggestion. Obviously we want to play the game where we can put the most number of fans in the seats. That which you suggested is what I'll recommend when the timing is right.
I am a transfer student about to move in at U of Houston. I would like more information regarding when the Track and Cross Country athletes work out. I am not in shape anymore but I was really good my freshman and sophomore years in High School. I haven't run in a while and am therefore out of shape...I need someone to run with in other words and would like to work out with the Cross Country people ...I would likely be in good enough shape by next semester or next year...to walk on and get a scholarship. Basically all I am requesting is to either have a schedule or be in contact with the coaches of Track and Cross Country. (Joshua Delano)
We just finished a beautiful new track complex adjacent to the Athletics/Alumni Center. If you have a chance to drop by and see it, I guarantee you'll be impressed. Leroy Burrell is our Head Track Coach. His phone number is (713) 743-9467. He'd be more than pleased to share information with you regarding opportunities to participate in our fine track program.
A few years back the Coogs had a TV deal that showed most of the away games. I understand that money is an issue but has there been any talks to try and work a deal out to do something like this again or even a tape delay showing of the games? (Rusty Thompson)
You're correct, it's very expensive to televise syndicated games back to Houston. Obviously the Conference has a television package and the UH/Texas game will be on national TV. We tried to secure the Georgia game but were denied the television rights by the Southeast Conference. It's possible we could have two or three games on television this year through the conference package, depending on how successful the Cougars are. Regardless, on Tuesday evenings at 10:30 on Channel 8, we will be replaying in a condensed format every game we play this fall. You'll have a chance to actually see both home and away games and the big plays that led to the outcome. Make sure you tune in and enjoy the action.
Thank you for the leadership you have given the University and Athletics program. My family really enjoys coming to campus to watch the games. I wish I could have experienced the same when I was a member of the Cougar Band, but we played in the Dome. It was always more exciting at the out of town games. I'm glad we have that same excitement now. Buy the way a friend of mine who played for Texas really enjoys our stadium. He has come to a few games in the past and has bought tickets to the Texas game this year. Again thank you and you can count on us for continued support. (Steve Oatman)
I appreciate very much your comments Steve. Thanks for your continued loyalty. It's because of people like yourself that we all stay motivated to bring that great sense of Cougar pride. I see the sail on the horizon and honestly believe our ship is going to come in very soon.
I live in Knoxville and was planning a HUGE tailgate party for the '02 Tennessee game. What happened? See you in West Point. Beat Texas. (Allan Stahl)
Because of the addition of TCU and our commitment to play South Florida this year, a Conference member to be, the Tennessee game didn't fit on our schedule. In addition, because we start with TCU at home, we now play six home games in '02 rather than five had Tennessee been scheduled. Professionally I like matching up against a program of Tennessee's stature, however in 2002 we had to prioritize the conference. Look forward to seeing you at Army.
Just taking advantage of this format to thank you for the wonderful job you are doing. Wish I were wealthy so I could build the second deck on the stadium for you. I hope you know that a lot of Cougars appreciate your efforts. (Gerald Bluhm)
That second deck on the stadium will come when we fill Phase I. Don't be surprised if it happens sooner rather than later. Thanks for your support Gerald.
What is the status of the local TV coverage for this year's games. I see we have one game on national TV with Texas, but what about the other games. I am a season ticket holder, but it's important that I can see them on the road. Are we going to get a deal with Channel 51 or The Tube or something? (Jose Ortiz)
I addressed this question with an earlier answer. Look for delayed reruns of all of our games Tuesday evening, Channel 8 at 10:30 p.m.
I am interested in working in athletics and I have two questions: (1) what do you look for when you interview and hire administrative personnel and (2) what is the best way to enter and move up the ladder? (Bob Brey)
Experience in the field, leadership qualities, personality, and ability to work with people, are the four most important criteria in selecting administrative staff. Anyone in a leadership position must have the respect of those around him or her. This comes with the confidence that experience brings. I find that people are most motivated by individuals who are committed to the task at hand, exude a strong work ethic and constantly display sensitivity to the needs of others. Administrators should motivate by example and I've seen a lot of critical situations that may appear to be insurmountable, overcome because staff believed in the vision and direction set by leadership. The best way to move up the ladder is to: (1) get your foot in the door by finding a way to create an opportunity through which you can prove yourself to those around you, (2) being dedicated to whatever the task is critical in illustrating that you're serious, and (3) always exude your ambition to succeed. You'll climb the ladder if you have those around supporting and encouraging your advancement. No one bully's their way to the top. Goals are achieved because of collective strength. Prove to those around you that you know what you're doing, you're committed to the mission at large, you're willing to make the unselfish sacrifices to advance the organization, and do it all with an ingratiating personality that motivates people to work for you. Best of luck.
I'm from Arkansas and support the Razorbacks. Is there any chance that Arkansas and Houston could renew their Rivalry? I think Arkansas would enjoy traveling to Houston for a game. Talk to Frank about it. P.S.: I read some of the letters you get, and I think you're doing the best thing for the University by keeping the Texas game at O'Quinn Field. When we played the Cougars in the Astrodome, there was NO college atmosphere. Your new field looks great and when you pack it with Cougar fans you're going to have something really special!! A packed stadium no matter the size increases your chances of winning, and a win on national TV against Texas with a full house will improve recruiting greatly. (Mark Alexander)
We would like a game with Arkansas. I know Frank Broyles and I'll give him a call to see if we can find a date. Thanks for your support for our keeping the Texas game at O'Quinn Field. It's going to be a spectacular event. Hopefully you have tickets because it's going to be an evening you won't want to miss. The stadium is going to be packed, it'll be on national TV and should send a great signal that the Cougars are back.
As a faculty member at UH-D, I have had season tickets almost every year since 1977 (the last couple were too conflicting with other academic plans). I plan to purchase a season ticket this year (by the way I think it is great to have the Texas game on site!!!). My question is parking. In the past I could purchase (for a modest fee) a parking ticket (or tag) next to the stadium because I was a UH faculty member and a season ticket holder. It is my understanding that this is no longer the situation. Is this correct? Where do we then park? (Herb Rebhun)
Every season ticket holder receives a parking pass for a reserved lot on campus. The lots are all within a reasonable distance of the stadium. In addition, each lot will have some number of spaces designated for game day traffic. If you arrive at the stadium early, you can actually upgrade your location by paying a supplemental parking fee when you arrive. Don't worry about parking...just get here early and you'll find a space.
I see that this website is going to have an online store, and it says it is coming soon. How soon is soon? I have seen in past Q and A sessions, that you said it would be soon, but do you have a more definite answer? Also, do you think that you can tell me some of the upcoming opponents for the Coogs in the coming years in football? Teams and years would be great. Thanks, and continue to keep up the great work and determination to turn this universities athletic program around. (Andrew Ortiz)
I talked to our merchandize and apparel coordinator the other day. He assures me the site will be up by the end of this month. Keep checking and I hope you enjoy that which will be displayed. Some of our upcoming opponents are Miami, LSU, Oklahoma, Mississippi State, Michigan, USL, Texas, Rice, and other Conference USA teams.
Are we really going to have ONLY ONE televised game for the Coogs? Surely that's not right. What is the outlook here regarding other televised games (what about Georgia?) (Don Sims)
I've addressed this earlier, however in summary...the Conference office selects the games twelve days prior to kickoff. When we realize success this year we could have as many as three games televised on the ESPN network. In addition, Tuesday evenings at 10:30 on Channel 8, you'll be able to watch all the replays throughout the season.
I think our end zones (the red checkerboard pattern) is okay, but not really top level - if we stay with it, I think the squares should be smaller). Could we have someone check this out, I'd like for it to look spectacular when Texas (and the Texas fans) come to town. I don't know what else to suggest - do you have any desire or intent to change the end zones - if so to what? (Don Sims)
You're really going to enjoy Robertson Stadium this fall. We've spent over $1.6M just this summer further renovating and upgrading virtually everything. Trust me...you'll have some fun and I believe you'll appreciate the efforts that have been made. We've tried to add as much "Cougar red" as we possibly can to the facility for obvious reasons. The checkerboard end zones simply highlight that effort.
I would like to know why we don't currently have a men's soccer program and/or tennis program like the women do? I believe that there is enough demand for it. (Frank Barnes)
Goals for our scholarship distributions, participation rates and resource allocations are established by federal guidelines as they pertain to Title IX. As we make efforts to enhance opportunities for women, it has consequently put the advancement of men's programs on hold. Once we bring the program to a more equitable state, you'll see the resurgence of men's sports. We've added women's soccer and softball over the last two years. We'll be sponsoring women's golf next year and hopefully be able to address some new men's sports after that.
The Tellez track and Carl Lewis Complex is fantastic and I believe it's one of the best in the country. However, you do not have lights so evening/ night track and field events cannot take place. The complex could also use more seating on the Scott street side of the field. Is it in the school's plan to have lights installed so evening/night track and field events can take place? Will there be more seating areas installed to take advantage of this great complex? (Thornton Smith)
We're working on installing lights for the track complex. It's one of the last pieces in finishing the project. You should see them installed by this winter. Regarding seating - as evidenced by that which was constructed in Robertson Stadium, we can add thousands of temporary seats to the tract complex if needed. The open practice fields to the west side provides us that opportunity. When an event dictates more seating, we will do just that.
Are we looking at scheduling any Pac-10 (especially the National Champion Arizona Wildcats) opponents or old SWC rivals for softball this year? (Dustin Kalman)
The softball schedule has been set for 2002 but you can be sure Kyla Holas, our coach, would be more than pleased to play teams of national stature. If you've seen our softball stadium lately you know that it turned out absolutely fantastic. There's no reason why we can't recruit some of the best softball players in our region, field highly competitive teams and vie for a national championship in short order. That is the mission of the program and Kyla has done a wonderful job putting the pieces together. Come to campus, enjoy the games this spring and support us as we build a program of national stature.
What is the non-conference schedule in 2002 and 2003? (Brian Perschall)
As it stands today, in 2002 our non-conference opponents include Rice, USL, Texas and South Florida. In 2003 we have Rice, Michigan, USL and Mississippi State.
I love your new website. One question, will the Cougar fight song be added? Other schools have their fight song available for student and alumni as well. (Len Mattox)
I'm going to talk to our Sport Information Director to see if that can be included immediately.
In Hofheinz, for safety, hand railings need to be installed at the entrance sites to each of the aisles. I've seen many have difficulty navigating those steps that are bound on either side by the new boxes. There have been several close calls with fans losing balance, or taking a wrong step. (MP)
I agree. Thanks for bringing this to my attention. I'll make certain our facilities personnel has this information and we should be installing the handrails prior to the season. Thanks for the heads-up.
I'm excited about the upcoming football season and think that we have a good chance of improving this season. I am worried about the offense though, and wondered if a decision on who will replace Jason McKinley has been made yet. (Matthew Harris)
I had a chance to watch the scrimmage on Saturday and was really impressed with the level of talent. Clearly we have got some very good football players on this team. I believe you'll be pleasantly surprised when they take the field against Rice. I know that Dana has been working all the quarterbacks on a regular basis. It looks like Kelly Robertson has the inside track at this stage and I believe that he can be as effective as Jason was last season. Time will tell, but the quarterback situation has turned out to be very encouraging.
I am a 1988 graduate of U of H and would like my son to become a Cougar. I was not sure how to contact the football staff. While he was a sophomore at Elkins High School, he started at defensive tackle. He is now 6' 3.5", 264 pounds and is starting his junior year. (Marcel Blanchard)
Marcel, I'm going to forward your information to Coach Dimel and his staff. Obviously we have your e-mail address and we'll have the recruiting coordinator track you down. I hope your son has a terrific season this year and definitely keeps the Cougars in mind.