What Makes a Winning Program? Part II

[Cajunsmike]

_ Seems like he might have been referring to South Carolina rather than Southern Cal. They haven't won much in any sport, but attendance is outstanding. They fill up their 80,000+ stadium every week, regardless of schedule, weather, won-loss record, etc. They are truly the exception for BCS programs and maybe for any school for that matter. _

You are probably right in that he is referring to South Carolina. They have great fans but they really don't compete with the LSU's and Florida's of the SEC. Probably, because they don't have as many overall resources. Texas A&M is also struggling some these days. Note, ASU from the Sun Belt beat them last year. They have enough resources. They will bounce back.

[DestinCajun]

I'm confused. The article is about fans' attitudes.
???? _

I understand that.

Having made all but 3 Cajun home football games since opening night in 1986, I humbly submit that I have the right attitude.

I am adding to your points that l believe the real key to "winning" at UL, which I define as being capable of competing for championships every year in the Sun Belt and NCAA post season opportunities, is based - first and foremost - upon a solid, adequate financial foundation.

[Just1More]

_ I understand that.

Having made all but 3 Cajun home football games since opening night in 1986, I humbly submit that I have the right attitude.

I am adding to your points that l believe the real key to "winning" at UL, which I define as being capable of competing for championships every year in the Sun Belt and NCAA post season opportunities, is based - first and foremost - upon a solid, adequate financial foundation. _

Correct Destin. And might I add... this translucent, individually subjective material called "fan attitude" is not something you talk about and/or request through articles and forum posts... and "make hay". What makes competitive programs is really a lot less mystical than some wish it to be. You must have GOOD MANAGERS and they must use well-defined proven methods for pulling all of the components together... this includes fans and their "attitudes". All other silly notions are the stuff of fantasy.

I don't get mad at cheerleaders for their attempts at "attitude building". But, in reality, it can become a distraction to hear them chirp when you finally have management on the march. I just do not want the management to catch wind of the cheerleading. To them... it sounds like a reprieve. It sounds like their treasured cavalry once again riding in to eliminate them from their long overdue, very difficult, fan-assigned tasks.

Fans are fuel... you light it... it burns. You fail in how to organize the fuel and light it... you don't blame the fuel.