Prep Voices : Boosters or Coaches, Who’s in Control?

Booster clubs long have offered monetary and spiritual support for high school athletic programs, but lately, some grumbling has been heard about these same groups wielding excessive control in determining the direction of the teams.

Coaches and athletic directors complain of the abuse of power by some booster club members who believe, because of the support provided, they should have a say in everything from who gets playing time to who coaches the team.

On the other hand, parents say they merely want accountability on behalf of the school’s athletic program and its coaches. They’re looking for a way to address concerns without fear of retribution, and for fair and equal treatment of their children.

In these financially difficult times, high school athletics have become increasingly reliant on the support of booster clubs to help make ends meet. And despite some coaches’ feelings that they can’t live with them, they certainly can’t live without them.

Perhaps by more clearly defining their roles and responsibilities, athletic departments and booster clubs could learn to peaceably coexist, working together to provide a positive and productive experience for the athletes. Isn’t that what it’s all about anyway?