Letter From the Editor

A Thorough Evaluation
by: Rex Lardner
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What are the criteria for evaluating a new job? Every one of us has been through it and more often than not, timing is of the essence. Usually decisions have to be made quickly and there never seems to be enough time to research the pro’s and con’s of a new position whether it be a first job or the last one...

The same is true in coaching. In the process of evaluating a potential position, how does one determine whether the fit is right... and what are the priorities in making a decision? While each school – high school, college, and pro – is different, part of the process is the comfort level or gut feeling after reflecting on the position.

There are many factors in an evaluation. In this issue of American Football Monthly, AFM writer Richard Scott examines the factors that weigh in on the decision process for many new coaches at various institutions: Joe Borges, an assistant coach at Auburn; Urban Meyer at Utah; Mike Stoops at Arizona; Chris Hatcher at Valdosta State; Chuck Kelly at Central Michigan; and John L. Smith at Michigan State.

Each situation, obviously, is different. But two factors seem to be readily apparent in every situation involving the evaluation of a prospective job: a risk of some sort will be taken and an overall inner feeling towards a job weighs heavily in the ultimate decision. Many times it’s the deciding factor.

To some, family is the most important issue – an environment and school situation that works for all members. To others, it’s overall commitment to the program by both the administration and athletic department. It could be facilities and their potential upgrading or an overall recruiting budget. One coach feels concessions for his assistants – financial and otherwise – is the overall determining factor in deciding whether or not to take the position. In the next month there will be a lot of turnover in the coaching world – at all levels. Hopefully, our ‘Next Job’ feature will give all of you some ideas and thoughts that may be helpful down the road.

This month’s issue of AFM also includes the results of our first annual Recruiting Survey, sponsored by our good friends at Recruiting Pro Software (www.RecruitingProSoftware.com). We’d enjoy hearing any feedback you can give us regarding both the questions and the results. As always, if there is anything that we can do for you, please do not hesitate to contact us at 561-355-5068. Thank you.

Respectfully,

Rex Lardner
Managing Editor
American Football Monthly
rlardner@lcclark.com

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