Q & A:
I just want to give you and the entire athletic department a big hand. I am increasingly amazed at the progress that the athletic department has taken over the last year. You all have done a wonderful job at changing the attitude of Bobcat athletics in such a short amount of time. I read people's questions and don't think that they can see the forest for the trees. They keep asking about when changes are going to be made. The changes are right there in front of them. You guys keep it up and stay the course.
Kody, I must thank you for your kind comments. You are correct in that we have made some significant changes in the last year. Some of them are very obvious, and some are changes that can have a profound impact internally and affect day-to-day operations that are not as "public". The bottom line is that I come to work everyday with the mindset of what we can do to make this department better. I expect nothing less of our administrative team. Likewise, I expect our coaching staffs and our student-athletes to take the same pride in their programs, and I truly believe we are doing that. Thanks again!
Dr. Teis,
First of all, I would like to commend you on a job well done. The true Texas State fans appreciate the loyalty you have given the athletic department during your tenure. I have two questions for you. First, what has been the most unexpected challenge you have had to face as the Athletics Director? Second, what has been the most enjoyable aspect of your job since your promotion from Associate Athletics Director?
Great questions, Shane, and thanks for your interest. One of the most unexpected challenges for me this year has been the profound impact that the new federal labor laws can have on our department, from assistant coaches to our administrative intern positions that are so critical to our operations. While this issue is "in our face" but still relatively new, it is a law that will impact virtually every athletic department in the country on some level. There are many things to scrutinize during this process, from job titles to job responsibilities to appropriate time and leave keeping. It has been a real challenge! Easily the most enjoyable aspect is watching our student-athletes have success. Our fall was terrific, and I hope that carries throughout the year and into future years. As administrators and coaches, we wear many different hats, and being a role model for these gifted young men and women is (or should be) at the top of our list.
You have mentioned the great things the department plans to do the baseball stadium. Do you plan on putting the updates and plans on the website as they go public?
Absolutely! We have just announced our Phase I plan, which will begin immediately after the 2005 season and some initial plans for Phase II. It will be a great time for our baseball and softball programs and as things become a little more concrete, we will post plans for Phase II.
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