I agree with wpgrad, that having this public - especially if the salary is higher than expected would be a good thing. Given this will be controversial and illicit strong opinions, the media is likely to have a field day.
If West Point PR can find a way to get ahead of this, that would be helpful.
I put together a quick mock statement to get ahead of the story:
A Message from the West Point Athletics Association on Our Commitment to Excellence
To the West Point community, supporters, and the broader public,
At the heart of West Point's legacy is a commitment to leadership, excellence, and service. These principles guide not only our academy's academic endeavors but also our athletic programs. As stewards of this rich tradition, the West Point Athletics Association wishes to provide context to upcoming reports concerning the compensation of our football program's head coach, Jeff Monken.
Striving for the Best, Rewarding Excellence
In the competitive realm of collegiate sports, securing top-tier talent is paramount to achieving our program's objectives. Institutions nationwide recognize and reward the significant contributions of coaches. It is through this lens that we should understand Coach Monken's compensation. His dedication, expertise, and track record are commensurate with the package he receives, ensuring that West Point continues to attract and retain the best.
The True Return on Investment
The value brought by Coach Monken and his team transcends the football field. Under his leadership, our cadets receive mentorship that instills discipline, teamwork, and a commitment to excellence—values that align perfectly with the ethos of West Point. Moreover, a successful football program elevates our academy's profile, fosters community spirit, and generates revenues that benefit the entire institution.
It is crucial to understand that the financial commitments made to our coaching staff are carefully planned. Funds allocated come from diversified sources, including program revenues, sponsorships, and private contributions, ensuring no undue burden on taxpayers.
Anticipating the Narrative, Valuing Transparency
We recognize that in the coming days, the story surrounding Coach Monken's remuneration may spark debate. It's essential, however, to view this in the context of the broader collegiate athletics landscape and the unparalleled benefits Coach Monken brings to our academy.
In the spirit of openness, we invite questions and are committed to engaging in constructive dialogue with our community. We believe that by providing clarity, we can further solidify the trust that our supporters place in us.
In conclusion, West Point's mission has always been to develop leaders of character for our nation. We believe that by investing in exceptional leaders like Coach Monken, we're staying true to this mission. We are steadfast in our commitment to excellence and the betterment of our cadets, both in classrooms and on playing fields.
Sincerely,
The West Point Athletics Association
