Kudos to our local Athletic Directors

These Leaders are looking at budget issues from a new and refreshing way. Check out a recent article from the Progress Index

"Once the budgets are finalized we can determine what plan will work the best. Right now it is wait and see. I will say that everyone I have talked to is open-minded and knows adjustments will need to be made."

Knowles said he has surveyed the district athletic directors and coaches to get their input.

"I polled my coaches asking for ideas and suggestions," Knowles said. "I received some creative feedback, but the most important feedback was that every coach I spoke with had an open mind and was mentally prepared to make adjustment.

"The Central District athletic directors have already started to look at alternative ways to run district events to reduce cost and help with revenue. When possible, the district has looked for outside sponsorship. The district has also changed the format of the basketball tournaments. We are running them at just two locations and having the finals at one central location."

In the past, the first-round games took place at the site of the higher seed. This year, the first and second rounds will all be run at one host school, with the finals at one location. Therefore, it was also necessary to eliminate one first-round game using this format. This will cut down on the number of workers, site directors and security necessary at four different locations. It is the district's hope that using central locations will increase attendance as well.

Another very creative idea.

The district is also looking at a spring jamboree format for soccer, baseball and softball. All of these tournaments would be held at one central location. This would have the same effect of minimizing tournament expenses and increase attendance. With the purchase of one ticket, a spectator could have access to four games in three different sports.

Let's hope that other end users of the taxpayers' money are paying attention and being just as creative.