We have all been witnesses to the level of interest given to certain sport programs over others. It is true that the most popular sport does deserve the attention it gets, but at what point does the focus on one sport become too much? Is favoritism noticed when one team doesn’t have a score keeper or no one to announce their own starting line-ups while another team has pristine uniforms?
The favored teams, such as the football team, enjoy better benefits. To find out why, just look at where they play their home games. The football and baseball teams have a stadium and field with bleachers that are maintained. Other teams at the bottom, such as the softball team who were in danger of losing their team this spring semester, do not have an electronic scoreboard or an announcer. It’s a challenge to bring home victories when the school has little financial backing and support behind all teams.
Pierce College has a good athletics program and the benefits that certain teams receive are well earned, but when it is clear that one team has far superior equipment and training, that is when the smaller teams are forgotten.
Each sports team receives an estimated $5,000 per semester to pay for transportation, officials and other teams expenses, according to athletic director Bob Lofrano. Clearly, the money is not enough if one team’s home court looks like a neglected field out in a public park.
Some teams have resorted to selling advertising space and using logos for sponsorships on their uniforms. Other teams have decided to sell snacks and drinks to help with the team’s expenses. Although not all the teams are small and some are very successful, they still do not have the same level of benefits.
Pierce needs to help each team reach their full potential. Certain teams need more help than others. Some just need minor items, such as a scoreboard, while others need more work with coaching, recruiting, and equipment.
Small changes can help the school eliminate sports favoritism. Pierce could promote games regardless of record. This simple step can help the teams by increasing attendance.
