Humanity is always seeking the better mousetrap. In many cases, the will to improve prevails and a way is found toward advancements. However, not everything in this “progressive” world of 2017 demonstrates our societal gains.
In the last week, there have been a few headlines that have earned the label, “Things that don’t work.” Let’s look at a few.
First, hiring a college football coach should be a very thoughtful, deliberate process. Thoroughly vetting candidates for such a significant hire is critical to ensure the coach has the qualities and professional or life experiences to be successful in managing the complex demands of running a multimillion-dollar operation and to be able to navigate an environment filled with potential controversies of the day – one of which is sexual misconduct.
Last week, the University of Tennessee’s athletic department allowed social media rumors and speculation to control the narrative of the head coach search process beginning with unsubstantiated rumors of former Tampa Bay Buccaneers coach and ESPN broadcaster John Gruden under serious consideration for the post.
Robin SmithThis was followed by the near hiring of a candidate whose name came up in numerous news accounts about the Penn State child rape scandal. UT’s search process would have been better if it had just run a classified ad. The new UT chancellor, a new athletic director and supporters rabid to finally change the fan experience at a beloved football program simply were failing.