TheTandD.com | It’ll take more than coaching to keep S.C. State ahead

It’ll take more than coaching to keep S.C. State ahead

By Thomas Grant Jr., T&D Senior Sports Writer Sunday, June 14, 2009

There’s one common belief among all college head coaches, regardless of the sport.

When trying to recruit a high school prospect, a winning tradition and geography are high selling points. However, the quality of the facilities is more than often the deal maker or deal breaker.

Take a look at the most successful Division I college football programs this decade (Florida, Southern Cal, Ohio State). In almost all cases, the facilities are second to none. The same is true even in the lower divisions in which former three-time defending Football Championship Subdivision champion Appalachian State can raise $32 million toward an athletic-enhancement campaign that already has produced three facilities.

Truly, the adage “if you build it, (they) will come” is as true in college sports as it was in the movie “Field of Dreams.” In the case of South Carolina State head coaches like Oliver “Buddy” Pough (football) and Hardeep Judge (tennis), renovations to their facilities have only further bolstered their proven ability to produce winning teams without the advantages of state-of-the-art athletics facilities.

It’s no secret that S.C. State has managed to overcome a distinct disadvantage among its Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference brethren when it comes to location and facilities. Out of the nine conference schools competing in football (not including Winston-Salem State, which remains non-eligible for MEAC title play), S.C. State has the smallest population and most rural setting:

Baltimore, Md. (Morgan State) -- 637,455

* Washington D.C. (Howard) -- 563,584

* Greensboro, N.C. (North Carolina A&T) -- 258,671

Norfolk, Va. (Norfolk State) -- 234,403

Tallahassee, Fla. (Florida A&M) -- 158,500

Hampton, Va. (Hampton) -- 145,579

Daytona Beach, Fla. (Bethune-Cookman) - 64,421

Dover, Del. (Delaware State) -- 34,735

#*Orangeburg, SC (S.C. State) =- 12,765

*City residents only

# 2000 census

In addition, the majority of the schools are in metropolitan areas with more available resource outlets to call upon to help either improve the current athletics facilities or build new ones. A prime example is Florida A&M’s new $26 million Teaching Gymnasium, which will hold 9,639 fans (three times the number of the old gymnasium) and is a host site for various events other than basketball.

There’s been plenty of talk in recruiting circles that FAMU’s new building helped dissuade potential Bulldog men’s basketball recruits from coming to Orangeburg. Despite recent improvements to the locker room, adjacent swimming pool and the installation of a new scoreboard, the 41-year-old Smith-Hammond-Middleton Memorial Center sill looks outdated by comparison.

Such a development begs the question: Is a new S-H-M a necessity?

Granted, a project of this nature would be difficult to accomplish in Orangeburg given the current economic state. Even a proposed $9 million aquatics center has drawn plenty of debate among citizens, who either support it or believe it’s a waste of money.

At the same time, would investing in a new S-H-M pay off long term for the city and county of Orangeburg and S.C. State University? Like the Myrtle Beach Convention Center or the Carolina First Center in Charleston, could it serve as a valuable tool both in recruiting more Division I-quality student-athletes to S.C. State and increased interest in the Garden City?

There’s also the question as to whether S.C. State could receive enough community and business financial backing to make such an endeavor profitable long term. Given the state budget cuts and frugal support received by S.C. State from the General Assembly, this would be the only route to go.

One can only look at the estimated $6 million in renovations made to Oliver C. Dawson Stadium since 1994, which the university has used to lure such events as the S.C. High School League and SCISA state championship football games. For all the ongoing work taking place at S-H-M, a new multipurpose arena could draw similar events such as the SCHSL Lower State basketball playoffs and special concerts to entice tourists to Orangeburg.

Last Wednesday, athletics director Charlene Johnson reiterated her plan to utilize the 2-year-old video scoreboard to lure more business interest. She seemed receptive to the idea of a new multipurpose arena.

“I think the university, I think Orangeburg County itself, could use a large facility that can be utilized for several things,” she said. “But those conversations are probably happening on the presidential level.”

Whether such an undertaking is possible or even popular at this time in South Carolina is unclear. But an indicator may be the haste with which the S.C. State Board of Trustees turned down a request to use $700,000 to resurface the track at the Lorry H. Dawkins Track Facility.

Nevertheless, it’s clear as other schools improve their athletics facilities, S.C. State will need more than just quality coaching to keep up with its MEAC and non-MEAC rivals in the coming years.

T&D Senior Sports Writer Thomas Grant Jr. can be reached by e-mail at tgrant@timesanddemocrat.com or by phone at 803-533-5547. Discuss this and other stories on-line at TheTandD.com.

The $26 million Teaching Gymnasium in Tallahassee, Fla., will serve as home for the Florida A&M basketball teams next season.

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165 comment(s)

The following comments are reader submitted. They do not represent the views of The T&D or Lee Enterprises.

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 18, 2009 6:58 PM:

" I may be the only one responding to the contrary, but I bet when people hear these plans.. most would be against moving "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 18, 2009 6:57 PM:

" We still have a backwards mentallity. Crazy thing is...we focus so hard on trying ot be like them...and don't even see they want to be like us. what would half-time be like? LOL "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 18, 2009 6:53 PM:

" SCSU_97: now if you didn't have a good time, that's not my fault. I can't speak on what the school made cause I don't negotiate the contracts. I assume they were crap. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 18, 2009 6:46 PM:

" The very year we moved the game from Charlotte to ATL, it was never the same since. Tell me different... you need to make it a tradition and stop moving it! "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 18, 2009 6:45 PM:

" Heritage Bowl and Battle at the Border could've been great with the right marketing. But we squandered the opportunity. Look at CIAA Basketball tournament. Look at the Bayou Classic. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 18, 2009 6:41 PM:

" Poor contracts for Battle at the border and Heritage bowl if so. Same goes for ESPN. Those games generated excitement. You wonder why attendance is falling? As BossHogg said..Dorman and Gaffney have higher attendance "

SCSU_97 wrote on Jun 18, 2009 3:55 PM:

" Bring back the Heritage Bowl, Battle of the Border? Are you serious?!?!?! These classics doesnt not benefit HBCU's whatsever. Like someone said earlier.. the promoters take all the money "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 18, 2009 3:24 PM:

" Everyone comes on here talking big about how much they do or can do... but just sit here and complain about Charlene... cause they can't do sh....t "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 18, 2009 3:23 PM:

" I remember the Pitt being packed with people around the TV rooting for "their team". Who was playing? UNC v. whoever... get some pride about yourself! Force the necessary changes... if you can "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 18, 2009 3:21 PM:

" I can't stand alumni who put more effort into attaching themselves to other more exposed Universities than capturing the exposure for their own. UNC is my team..Clemson is my team... how 'bout SCSU is mine! "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 18, 2009 3:18 PM:

" What is the motivation/purpose for moving up? Money? You have untapped resources in HBCUs!!!! Again, why can everyone else find a way to get in our pockets except for us? "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 18, 2009 3:12 PM:

" The whole "Game Zone" debacle is an example of trying to produce results without work. Just charge people more... is that a solution? No. No longevity in that. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 18, 2009 3:11 PM:

" BossHogg is thinking the right direction now. We have work to do! It won't get done with people that don't want to do the work... no matter how high ticket prices go. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 18, 2009 3:10 PM:

" I, too, would love to see SCSU beat their tails. Reality is... we haven't. I love Pough, but we need to beat more than MEAC, SWAC, and Independent schools. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 18, 2009 3:08 PM:

" How many schools from the SoCon get to go to the playoffs? How many from the MEAC or SWAC? So, because we're in that conference means we'll start winning Nat. Titles? "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 18, 2009 3:07 PM:

" We need to address a lot more before we start going elsewhere. What if we did go to the SoCon? Charlene would still be the AD. What would change? Nothing. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 18, 2009 3:06 PM:

" BossHogg, you have proven my point. You have two issues going on, none of which have to do with the MEAC. Both rest with Charlene. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 18, 2009 1:08 PM:

" If charlene was anything other than a former SCSU athlete who's been around the school forever,she'd have been fired long ago. Are those reasons enough to tolerate poor performance?Not if you want to move forward "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 18, 2009 1:07 PM:

" Charlene is a nice person. Known her many years now. As an athletics director, she is over her head. She should not have gotten the job, and is not performing well in it "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 18, 2009 1:02 PM:

" Robert Porcher wanted to give money towards a new weight room. Our athletics leadership said "we want to control where the money goes" He said no, so they didnt get the money. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 18, 2009 12:59 PM:

" She has allowed our booster club to do nothing and maintain only one chapter. Byrnes and Gaffney high schools raise similar amounts of money as our COLLEGE booster club. She tolerates it. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 18, 2009 12:58 PM:

" Coastal carolina just started a football program not long ago. They already have a field house and athletics wellness center. We have a weight room that doesnt even compare to some high schools "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 18, 2009 12:57 PM:

" but with charlene, we got flyers in barbershops in orangeburg. We cant even buy game tickets online. There are no sponsors on our athletics site. but she isnt the problem right? "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 18, 2009 12:55 PM:

" Charlene's idea of marketing is putting 1 sign up on the interstate, and putting some flyers in churches. This is a business. We should be on the radio & TV all over SC "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 18, 2009 12:54 PM:

" Look at the instability since she came. Cy leaves, betts leaves, JB is fired, facilities lagging, ticket sales lagging. AND she has already been there 25+ years.Fire her or force her to retire! "

crusty wrote on Jun 18, 2009 12:53 PM:

" And Samford is one of 5 SoCon teams pre-seasoned ranked in the top 25 by The Sporting News. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 18, 2009 12:53 PM:

" then after her homeboy Hugine got the president job, he just REMOVED the interim title. Never once did she have to prove SHE was BEST for the job. It was given to her. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 18, 2009 12:52 PM:

" If you remember, Buddy Pough was the interim AD after Autry. it was taking pough away from football so charlene was GIVEN the title of interim AD "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 18, 2009 12:51 PM:

" Pough is winning in spite of her. An athletics director should have a sense of athletics & business. Did she even interview for the job when hugine gave it to her? "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 18, 2009 12:48 PM:

" If it was up to her, JB would still be at SCSU, as would tonya mackey. She hired her friend as the softball coach. Autry got the stadium rebuilt, not her. "

crusty wrote on Jun 18, 2009 12:46 PM:

" BTW, in the years the SoCon didn't win, they were runner-up 8 times. 12+8=20. 20 out of the last 25. Crap indeed. "

crusty wrote on Jun 18, 2009 12:40 PM:

" 2ndGen, SoCon is crap? 12 nat'l champs in the last 25 yrs. 4 different colleges. How did the MEAC do in the same time? (Hint...0). "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 18, 2009 12:07 PM:

" Last, If my comments weren't limited to 35 words. You wouldn't see my name so much. I could send one thought and move on. Thanks T&D. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 18, 2009 12:06 PM:

" All these years... and all we have to show for our success is one billboard a few miles from Orangeburg along I-26. Can we get more exposure than that? "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 18, 2009 12:05 PM:

" The ESPN contract is crap. I know the score before the game is televised. After a whole day of football, who's watching us in the wee hours of the morning? "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 18, 2009 12:04 PM:

" Again, the SOCon is crap. The only name they have is App State. The others, as I said, you only hear about because most are local to SC. Who's heard of Samford? "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 18, 2009 12:02 PM:

" FAMU did what you want State to do. They won the conference and the very next year petitioned to move up. Then look what happened. We're even worse, We want lateral movement. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 18, 2009 12:01 PM:

" ClaflinBro: You were just on here talking all this ying yang about state a few weeks ago. Now, everyone else needs a life? We are having a discussion. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 18, 2009 11:59 AM:

" Crusty: You all make a lot of wishful comments. What proof do you have? How about build up this conference first? Whoever is over the MEAC should go as well. "

09085858 wrote on Jun 18, 2009 11:33 AM:

" Yes, SCSU needs to make decisions and move on.
Bashing the Athletic Director is not what we need "Bosshogg". It seems like you have something personal against Charlene....
What is your job? "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 18, 2009 10:31 AM:

" Who wants to bet that after this article, charlene never does another interview with the T&D again! A lot to hide and not doing much? "

crusty wrote on Jun 18, 2009 12:38 AM:

" 2ndGen, when does winning lose it's flavor? The question is what is BEST for SCSU? State has the chance to be a star in a better conference. "

claflinbro wrote on Jun 17, 2009 10:21 PM:

" Sometimes I wonder if you people have lives outside of posting comments about SCSU. You people are saying the same thing over and over again. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 17, 2009 2:10 PM:

" Going to the SoCon will be like chewing gum. Once it loses its flavor, we won't want it anymore. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 17, 2009 2:08 PM:

" 20% of 110,000 is 22,000. For 100% attendance, you need to do things to draw people to Orangeburg. As I said, Orangeburg is far to travel for just a game. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 17, 2009 2:04 PM:

" 1. Reinstate the Heritage Bowl. 2. Reinstate Battle at the Border and make Charlotte its permanent home. 3. Renegotiate contract with ESPN, TV1, and BET (raise production). 4. what's 20% of 110,000? "

TAS wrote on Jun 17, 2009 11:35 AM:

" Though I may agree with a lot of what has been said here, some of you really need to get a life. With every printed SCSU story you repeat yourselves. PLEASE STOP THIS. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 17, 2009 10:42 AM:

" Let me rephrase: Charlene Johnson should no longer BE EMPLOYED THERE. To say no longer working there is incorrect. She isnt doing any work now. She's just getting a paycheck. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 17, 2009 10:40 AM:

" 2ndgen: what we can agree on is that there needs to be a change in SCSU athletics. The first and most important change needs to be Charlene Johnson no longer working there. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 17, 2009 10:40 AM:

" 2ndgen: I will step up and apologize for yesterday. We both love SCSU and there is no need for us to argue. our opinions differ. lets leave it at that. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 17, 2009 10:11 AM:

" The same thing "A Different World" and "School Daze" did for some of us, "Stomp the Yard" and "Drumline" can do today. Again, stop letting everyone else capitalize on what HBCUs built! "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 17, 2009 10:09 AM:

" They aren't in national conversation. What needs to be done is work within the MEAC, and HBCUs altogether, to garner support and take advantage of the HBCU phenomenon. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 17, 2009 10:08 AM:

" They aren't in national conversation. What needs to be done is work within the MEAC, and HBCUs altogether, to garner support and build something of the HBCU phenomenon. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 17, 2009 10:06 AM:

" Appalachian State is the only school in the conference you can point to to support your exposure theory. You only hear about Furman and others because they're in the area. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 17, 2009 10:04 AM:

" There are two factors as to why they get more exposure than we. One of them has to do with the success over Michigan. We've always been in the top echelon of the MEAC. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 17, 2009 10:02 AM:

" As for the SoCon, we would have the largest stadium should we go there. None of their stadiums are as big as ours. Also, that's conference wide. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 17, 2009 10:00 AM:

" I agree there. Charlene and any other hinderance should leave. But you've also proven my point that the weight of it all doesn't belong squarely on our fans. You're gonna price us out! "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 17, 2009 9:38 AM:

" The day that Charlene Johnson walks out of that athletics department for the last time, we will be right there saying "na na na na, na na na na, hey hey, GOODBYE! "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 17, 2009 9:37 AM:

" Charlene: One day all of your mess is gonna come to light. A former coach, or former employee is gonna spill it all. And we will be there when it happens. believe it. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 17, 2009 9:36 AM:

" Charlene: how about some pictures of the newly repaired pool facility? Maybe if you let us see what it is you are doing (or not doing) maybe you would get more support "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 17, 2009 9:35 AM:

" Charlene: You want us to give our money. Can we at least get some views of what it is you are doing with it? PLEASE! is that too much to ask? "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 17, 2009 9:34 AM:

" Charlene: Can we at least see the plans for the new locker rooms? Maybe a photo or 2 of the new weight room upgrades on the athletics website? "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 17, 2009 9:33 AM:

" Charlene....Charlene Johnson...what say you to all this internet chatter? Do you even care? Why is it that you do not give an in depth interview to let us know what is really going on? "

crusty wrote on Jun 17, 2009 9:17 AM:

" Melly, maybe because it wasn't a conference game and didn't matter? "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 17, 2009 8:47 AM:

" but here is a question: how many people did delaware state bring? How many did morgan state bring? How bout howard? They dont bring any read crowds either. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 17, 2009 8:46 AM:

" I agree that all the schools listed did not bring big crowds to orangeburg with the exception of Coastal carolina. they brought a huge crowd when they came to orangeburg "

melly wrote on Jun 16, 2009 9:20 PM:

" SCSU fans are willing/have travel to their (SoCon) campuses but their fans won't come to SCSU campus. I wonder WHY? Well not really... "

melly wrote on Jun 16, 2009 9:16 PM:

" Bosshogg,
I base my opinion on the fact that we didn't have good attendence when we played Furman,Citadel,GeorgiaSouthern,Wofford and Coastal Carolina in the past. "

shlomoe wrote on Jun 16, 2009 8:23 PM:

" Hey t&d how great is the new 35 word limit working?
96 comments here by a few usuals who only want to use enough words to express their thoughts.
Stupid is as stupid does. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 16, 2009 7:38 PM:

" Since you're too stupid to grasp a broad concept... let's break it down line by line... Do you think the SoCon is the saving grace? Write your answer so everyone can see! "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 16, 2009 6:15 PM:

" The ESPN contract needs to be revisited. Possible exposure on TV1 should be looked into. Unbbiased analysis of what the customer wants needs visiting. you think people want to see the 101 vs Terriers? "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 16, 2009 4:53 PM:

" All of a sudden, now, Classics don't generate money?! You were in support of the Low-Country Classic until they pulled it. Two-faced. Please people... look at who you're siding with... "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 16, 2009 4:51 PM:

" Plus.. this whole article is about the small population in Orangeburg. Add that to the economic downturn and lack of marketing, and viola.... you get what you get.. or better what you pay for... "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 16, 2009 4:46 PM:

" Also, the devil knows the bible too. You think putting up roadblocks is helping SCSU? How about let T.Grant, Jr. interview you since you have all the answers. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 16, 2009 4:16 PM:

" Riddle me this? Why are the CIAA Basketball tournament and Bayou Classic successful? I know you looked into those two business models. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 16, 2009 4:14 PM:

" and, you sir, are an Idiot! Business solutions? We'll see how those go when people start paying attention and it gets closer to crunch time. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 4:12 PM:

" our mission is the ensured longterm viability of the institution, and the improvement of its programs. whats yours?
PRAYER WITHOUT ACTION IS POWERLESS - You learn a lot at New Mount Zion "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:51 PM:

" you do that.go pray, meanwhile, we will be looking into business solutions that will ensure the longterm viability of the school and its athletics programs.do you know your bible?
PRAYER WITHOUT ACTION IS POWERLESS "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:48 PM:

" But I now see what you're all about. I hope others are reading to see what YOUR mission is. Where's my survey form. I need to go pray. I'm done with YOU! "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:46 PM:

" Why are you saying do nothing? Have I once suggested do nothing? There are a lot of options to be examined before you talk about walking away from the MEAC. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:43 PM:

" I have several better ideas, but are you gonna listen? Or do you have all the answers? "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:42 PM:

" washington has done some bad things. but that dont mean every idea he has is bad. you have to look at an idea based on its merits, not its originator. real mature dude "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:41 PM:

" you just proved my point. pough and washington both have sons who attended the citadel, but its okay for pough, cause you LIKE him.
use your head. not your heart. be smart "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:39 PM:

" sounds like you would rather the school suffer, and/or die, than to change. If you arent growing, your dying. Change doesnt have to be a bad thing. as long as its smart "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:37 PM:

" you say we are systematically tearing down SCSU.but to stay put, do nothing, and not consider options when our funding continues to get cut does more damage than you accuse us of. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:35 PM:

" are you saying 2ndgen. that we shouldnt even EXAMINE if it makes sense? se should just do what we have always done without even LOOKING at the numbers and options? "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:33 PM:

" an survey has already shown that MOST alumni would support a move, IF it was of benefit to the school and the programs. Thats because they know were still an HBCU, but its business "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:32 PM:

" even some in scsu's administration,both athletics administration & the school administration see the positives in at least LOOKING at leaving.not just maurice.if you knew them, youd know that. its being looked at. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:30 PM:

" you say they need to do things for the fans. they do. they put a team out there that is very good for you to watch.thats not enough?it is most places. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:27 PM:

" we are not saying change the mission of the school. just how we operate. times change, if you dont adapt, you get left behind. and we are getting left behind in facilities. badly "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:26 PM:

" we can be an hbcu and not struggle like most hbcu's do.just because you live in the projects dont mean you have to STAY poor.the meac is a project. we can do better "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:25 PM:

" and no, leaving isnt the only option. based on the ones we hav seen, its the best one. do you have a better one? "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:25 PM:

" And No! I'm not gonna talk bad about Corbitt nor Pough. I like them, I don't like Maurice Washington! "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:24 PM:

" do what the fans want?
the fans want scsu to be successful in athletics and academics. successful meaning wins and profit. we have the wins in football, but we struggle financially.like most hbcus "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:24 PM:

" Have a BCFx competition at the stadium when it releases. Stop missing the opportunities and lead them! We always following. Put me in the know then, since you know. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:22 PM:

" Why would someone make a video game featuring BCF if there were no benefit or market? Idiots.. someone must be out there wanting the HBCU experience! "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:22 PM:

" what conference we are in or who we play in sports isnt what defines us as an HBCU. its our mission and history. We can be an HBCu and fiscally successful too. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:21 PM:

" so are you gonna talk bad about pough now?
use your head. not your heart. thats what gets us in trouble. athletics is a business. scsu will always be a black colllege. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:21 PM:

" I said it before.. Y'all are idiots! Besides that, you're systematically tearing down SCSU. You obviously don't know what's best for SCSU. You are contributing to it's fall now! Just Leave! "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:19 PM:

" washington aint the only one who kid didnt go to scsu...even though his daughter did go to scsu. corbitts son went to benedict. hell, buddy poughs son went to the citadel. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:19 PM:

" And I see you've considered work-arounds?! The only option is to leave the MEAC? Mr. In the Know? You need to do things for the fans. Not what YOU think the fans want. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:18 PM:

" by the way, we disagree with washington on many things...but this, we agree with. just becasue you dont like him dont make everything he says wrong. again, using your heart instead of your head. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:17 PM:

" so moving to a conference that makes money is throwing out everything? We love SCSU. and will watch games no matter what conference they are in. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:15 PM:

" if we could generate more revenue at home games, we wouldnt need to play classics. Improve your own gameday experience and you wont need to entice people to games with trips. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:14 PM:

" even now, FAMU fans are talking about pulling out of the atlanta classic because the 100 black men who sponsor it clear all the profit, leaving little for the schools. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:13 PM:

" classics take away from your school when you play too many, cause then your fans only come to those classics and dont support home games - exacly what SCSU is trying to undo. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:12 PM:

" its obvious you are not in the know. have you noticed that SCSU does very few classics now? know why? the promoters take all the money...you make more with home games. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:09 PM:

" "we need some real fans"
youd rather scsu struggle financially in athletics &stay in the meac than move to a better business model?Whos the real fan? we love SCSU, and want her to thrive. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:02 PM:

" I tell you what... how about tell Maurice to have his son transfer to SCSU from the Citadel... then I'd think you're putting all your effort into making SCSU successful. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 16, 2009 3:00 PM:

" All you do is repeat everything Maurice says. Unless... uh huh... YOU ARE MAURICE!!!! "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 16, 2009 2:59 PM:

" You're doing all this cost-effectiveness... tell me..what's the benefit? We get rid of everything, then cry we aren't making any money. How do you run a business when you throw our all your product? "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 16, 2009 2:55 PM:

" Bragg Memorial Stadium is a 25500-seat multi-purpose stadium. Armstrong Stadium is a 17000-seat multi-purpose stadium. All you want to do you can do from the MEAC. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 2:54 PM:

" saddest part about this 2ndgen: between us and you, we have more knowledge on this issue than our AD does. and neither of us get the 6 figures she gets to do nothing. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 16, 2009 2:50 PM:

" We need some real fans! Not of just SCSU, but of Black College Football! Y'all are destroying this thing from within. I hope no one is listening to your flawed advice! "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 16, 2009 2:49 PM:

" BossHogg, you've obviously done your research. How many can Gibbs Stadium hold? How about Kidd Brewer Stadium? Y'all are a bunch of idiots! What we need are the classics back! Develop the HBCU! "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 2:27 PM:

" travel cost would be reduced, it would allow us more games in the SC area, building more of a fan base, and still play A&T, FAMU etc as out of conference games. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 2:26 PM:

" we have seen the financials of the meac and the big south. there is no arguement. we'd make more money playing famu, howard, A&T and the big south (coastal,chas southern,etc)than we do now. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 2:18 PM:

" melly,we are not just on the fire Charlene bandwagon, we BUILT it! Glad to see you on it.

Our opinion to leave the meac is based on facts. whats yours based on to stay? "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 2:15 PM:

" 2ndgen:
please provide one reason we should stay meac other than these 2:
1. thats where the rest of the hbcus are
2. thats where we been for a long time "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 2:11 PM:

" innovation is analyzing the current situation and making a decision that is best for you based on current conditions. basically, us sir. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 2:10 PM:

" SCSU is an HBCU if there in the meac, the big south, or independent. chains on the mind is staying someplace thats not conducive to success based on emotions.
basically, you sir. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 2:08 PM:

" the meac was the best option when others wouldnt take us. now we will. so we should take the best option. that is not the meac. wish it was, but its not "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 2:07 PM:

" chains from our mind?

the meac is the plantation.and you are telling us that cause we's a negra school we shouldnt leave, like we wont be a HBCU anymore.Is tennessee state an hbcu? "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 2:01 PM:

" FAMU tried to move &failed,so we shouldnt try right?Whos the slave in chains?

Don try to run from da massa,kunta tried da run,and da massa cut off he foot "

melly wrote on Jun 16, 2009 1:59 PM:

" Attendance has been an issue for at least the last decade along with having the same people in the same positions. At what point will we see some accountability (i.e. Get them out of here)? "

melly wrote on Jun 16, 2009 1:57 PM:

" Bosshogg,
I was going to compliment you on joining the fire the AD(Charlene) bandwagon prior to you agreeing with the asinine idea to leave the MEAC... "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 1:55 PM:

" 2ndgen: we gotta stop thinking with our hearts,and use our heads.We aint saying drop HBCU staus.we are still an HBCU if we are not in the MEAC. We were and HBCU BEFORE the meac existed. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 1:54 PM:

" 2ndgen: we dont feel that was based on anything washinton said. but on the logic of WHY he said it. financial analysis is clearly on the side on the Big south. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 1:53 PM:

" 2ndgen:

we dont advocate moving UP to 1-A like FAMU did. We advocate moving to another 1-AA conference,based on financial analysis.You advocate staying in the meac based on emotion.which is why we are broke "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 1:51 PM:

" "Stop trying to be USC and Clemson."?
USC and Clemson have millions of dollars in athletics revenue.Would love to be like that. Very proud of being and HBCU. Not proud of being backwards. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 1:48 PM:

" 2ndgen: we were agreeing with crusty. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 16, 2009 1:24 PM:

" This is insane. 2009, and we're still trying to be a predominantly white college. Go read Carter G. Woodson and revamp your perspective BROTHER! Take the chains off your mind! "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 16, 2009 1:23 PM:

" I knew you were an idiot. Why can everyone see the value in HBCU's except us? Ask NerJyzed who made BCFX video game. Stop trying to be USC and Clemson. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 16, 2009 1:19 PM:

" I knew there was a motive behind every comment you make. Sabotage. So, you side with Washington, throw SCSU under the bus, in an effort to go to the SoCon? For what? "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 16, 2009 1:17 PM:

" And there it is. BossHogg, are you speaking for your entire group? SCSU is fine in the MEAC! Maybe exhaust all options before making a comment such as that! Look at FAMU! "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 12:27 PM:

" we agree crusty,SCSU should leave the MEAC and join the Socon or the Big South.both would allow for lower travel cost and local rivalries to develop.We could play some HBCU's as out of conference games "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 10:25 AM:

" The athletics department would make even more money if they were not paying for Charlenes TERI retirement and her 6 figure salary! "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 10:23 AM:

" Charlene should let coaches do what they know works.We're surprised she didnt fire Coach Carter over his website. It made sense. You know Charlene dont like nothing that makes too much sense. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 16, 2009 9:37 AM:

" The saddest part about all of this is,that instead of our AD responding to all of these questions,she will continue to hide and avoid answering them.Make six figures and laugh all the way to Allendale. "

Chris' Cloths wrote on Jun 16, 2009 9:30 AM:

" SCSU needs a new arena. The state should have stepped in and built it. There is still blood on your hands. "

crusty wrote on Jun 15, 2009 11:12 PM:

" It'll never happen, but I'd love State to leave the MEAC and join the SoCon. Ticket sales would be up, recruiting would improve, new in-state rivals, etc. "

cherokee wrote on Jun 15, 2009 8:01 PM:

" If Cooper would pare down his Cabinet (GOOD OLD BOYS CLUB), SCSU could SAVE mill;ions per year. Then he could update Academics to the 21st Century and update the Athletics also. "

cherokee wrote on Jun 15, 2009 7:56 PM:

" Why doesn't someone suggest to President Cooper that he would do better if he pared down his bloated Cabinet. We have too many Vice Presidents, Assistant VP's, Directors, and their Staff? "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 15, 2009 7:10 PM:

" How many dollars will "The Gate" actually capture? Will people be so inclined to be in that area that they will buckle and buy access and a ticket? Cost-Benefit Analysis... "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 15, 2009 6:55 PM:

" I just laughed to myself. So, Charlene is from or lives in Allendale (an even smaller town)? We wonder why we have no marketing plan? I love Allendale, but... "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 15, 2009 6:41 PM:

" What's else is funny. Pough obviously has some selling points to the recruits he's able to bring in. I wonder what those are and what can be taken from that to draw fans. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 15, 2009 6:39 PM:

" Also, App State has won their conference multiple times in a row. Have beaten Michigan (even if they are just a shell of what they were). A few big wins for us won't hurt. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 15, 2009 4:33 PM:

bosshogg wrote on Jun 15, 2009 3:45 PM:

" 2ndgen: We agree, that whoever is the AD needs to be able to work with a small population. App State is in Boone, NC. Similar population to orangeburg.They seem to have no problems. "

2ndgenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 15, 2009 3:21 PM:

" We absolutely need someone during this time who has enough vision to encourage support on all levels with the added disadvantage of being in a town with a population of 13,000 people. "

2ndgenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 15, 2009 3:05 PM:

" We either need leadership or a spokesperson to harvest the rewards of all the work we, the fans, are doing. Or what is it all for? Naught? "

2ndgenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 15, 2009 3:02 PM:

" The team is doing what they are supposed to do. Further, its not just about football. Attendance is down for everything. So, don't put that on the fans! "

2ndgenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 15, 2009 3:01 PM:

" Brothe Pough is doing his job. He brings in top recruits for our size school. The deficiency is putting the school and team in the forefront. That doesn't come from the bottom. "

2ndgenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 15, 2009 2:59 PM:

" Its funny how BossHogg is repeating everything people have been saying all along. The gimmicks won't work! The Gate. The mandatory tickets. The Blame to everyone but the people that want the support. "

2ndgenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 15, 2009 2:51 PM:

" So, let's discuss. I agree with BossHogg about Charlene. The thing is... no matter how much we, the fans, do... nothing will change with no support from the top. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 15, 2009 2:34 PM:

" By the way, does our new athletics marketing director work full time? Do we have a real marketing plan? Or are we still hanging flyers in local churches? Gotta think bigger Charlene!!!!!! "

Bmore#1 wrote on Jun 15, 2009 2:05 PM:

" True that. Great article on a topic ripe for robust discussion.What a big time challenge to the University. Hopefully our elected officials, administrators and fans will pull together and get more funding for SCSU. "

bosshogg wrote on Jun 15, 2009 12:29 PM:

" thomas grant is right. it will take more than coaching. it will take leadership from athetlics administration. of which we have none. This isnt allendale high charlene, you actually have to work! "

Bosshogg wrote on Jun 14, 2009 8:38 AM:

" Word around orangeburg is that charlene has no strategic plan for operating or marketing the athletics department. She runs it like a high school department. Fire her! "

Bosshogg wrote on Jun 14, 2009 8:25 AM:

" We are surprised charlene even responded in this article. She refuses to give real interviews because she has no answers. She's been there for over 25 years. Shouldn't she be retired and on TERI "

Bosshogg wrote on Jun 14, 2009 8:22 AM:

" She doesn't know how to raise money or sell tickets. She knows nothing about business. Why can't we buy scsu athletics apparel? That's how other schools raise revenue for facilities "

Bosshogg wrote on Jun 14, 2009 8:13 AM:

" Our athletics director and our athletics booster club are a joke. Charlene is single handedly holding our coaches and department down. Cooper should not renew her contract. "

Bosshogg wrote on Jun 14, 2009 8:11 AM:

" Fire the AD and bring in someone who knows about business. Charlene is just now planning to use the video board? What have she and the marketing director been doing the last 2 years "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 14, 2009 1:06 AM:

" Your research of the statistics supports what I've been trying to say regarding recent issues surrounding SCSU and its "attendance problem". The numbers don't lie. "

2ndGenerationBulldog wrote on Jun 14, 2009 1:04 AM:

" Excellent article! It is an answer to a lot of bickering about different issues on the website beyond facility renovation and coaching (as you state). I hope others here the message in your aricle. "

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It’ll take more than coaching to keep S.C. State ahead

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