Today marks 4 months of doing this AD thing, and all I can tell you for sure, is that nothing on earth can truly prepare you for a position like this. I came into this job with 11 years of experience in college athletics, from a very high performing institution. I had an athletic director that allowed me to be a part of the process for years, I learned everything I could learn. I wanted to truly know and understand the business. I gained so much knowledge and experience, but still, I had no idea what I was walking into.
The weight of other people’s livelihoods is heavy. It’s not just about me anymore. I have coaches on my staff with families, I have administrators and athletic trainers whose pay checks depend on my decisions. I have almost 400 student-athletes whose future rests in the hands of my decisions. I was prepared to make decisions, I had the experience and the knowledge to make them, but I was not prepared for the weight. It’s not that I wasn’t cautioned, but some things you just have to experience yourself.
Sweet friends, leadership is heavy. No matter what way you slice it. I believe, with my entire heart, that I am doing exactly what I am supposed to be doing, exactly where I’m supposed to be doing it. If you find yourself feeling heavy, don’t let the weight deter you. If you believe you are doing what you’re supposed to be doing, learn to carry the weight gracefully. Ask for help when you need it, rest when you need to, distribute weight where you need to, but please don’t quit. We need you.
I say all this to say, love on and encourage those who lead you. Leadership is a very heavy, and often lonely journey. It’s rewarding and wonderful too, without a doubt. I love this life that Jarrett and I chose, I am so proud that Sul Ross Athletics chose me to be their leader. I am so thankful for the people on my staff that encourage me each day. Keep encouraging one another, it takes a village friends. Much love and good villages sweet friends.
