In economics there is a concept called the circle of poverty that is defined as "set of factors or events by which poverty, once started, is likely to continue unless there is outside intervention." In many organizations and particularly in sports organizations there is a similar situation which I call the "circle of privilege". Once privilege is granted to one individual in as much as they are exempt from the standard policies and responsibilities, the genie is out of the jar. The "circle of privilege" will continue with coaches setting their own agendas and priorities while feeling no accountability to their supervisor. They will create their own culture (Penn State, Ohio State, USC, Oklahoma,etc.). Individuals who are treated as privileged will perpetuate that type of situation either in their current organization or one to which they ascend. The culture of coaching is particularly vulnerable to the "circle of privilege" because there is no formal training of coaches in the USA so coaches learn their trade through on the job training and assume many characteristics of their mentors. An assistant coach at Big Time U who has been exposed to the superstar head coach, when hired at Mid Major U as Head Coach, will have similar expectations and ideas of his/her importance and control. As a leader (Athletic Director) and someone who is the ultimate decision maker on the hiring of this coach, you must clearly set the expectations and responsibilities of the coach so there is no cloudiness as to who is in charge. If left to his/her own devices and experiences, the new coach will continue the "circle of privilege". Naturally as the superstar coach's proteges find new leadership positions and allowed to institute their own set of priorities, the "circle of privilege" grows exponentially. Because the hiring of head coaches come from the pool of assistants from the Big Time U's, the true power in college athletics has ultimately shifted to the coaches. Until University leadership is willing to break the chain of the "circle of privilege", college athletics will continue to suffer through scandals like Penn State, Ohio State, Miami and USC. As a leader you need to accept your role and not submit your authority to anyone irrespective of their status or public image. Until leaders break the "circle of prestige", college athletics will be very much like a battleship with no one at the helm, a huge force that will create its own path. Leaders need set the course and make sure everyone is headed in the same direction with no ulterior motives that detract from the common good for group, organization or team. By establishing parameters when individuals are placed in positions of authority in regard to what their boundaries are on the front end, there should be very situations when those people exceed their power.
Labels: Miami, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Penn State, USC
In academia we call the circle of privilege the ivory tower, defined as "A place or attitude of retreat, especially preoccupation with lofty, remote, or intellectual considerations rather than practical everyday life." When I think of great coaches, I think of those who did not view themselves as an extension of the university, but rather as an active member and contributor to the college community they serve. I was thinking about this as I watched an interview with Nick Saban the other night. It was held live in his home, which I thought was a little odd considering he is a representative of the University of Alabama. Why not shoot it somewhere live on campus in a setting where students and faculty could be present? If we consider athletics as a vital component of higher education in America, shouldn't we, as leaders, be doing everything possible to make that connection meaningful? Faculty members are expected to perform service for the university, which most do enthusiastically. Why not have the same expectation for coaches? All too often I see coaches who consider public appearances as obligations rather than opportunities to connect in a meaningful way with their constituents. Many coaches view these opportunities as time wasted that could be used recruiting, watching tape, game-planning, etc... to maintain their status in the circle of privilege. To me, that is a darned shame. Just my two cents for what it's worth.
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