Abstract
The literature illustrated that two main bodies govern intercollegiate athletics. These governing bodies’ focus is to offer student athletes opportunities to develop and grow during and after college. An extensive review of the literature, extra-curricular activities such as intercollegiate athletics are shown to provide several benefits to students. In addition, a brief look at the history of institutional athletics programs showed funding is a major concern and requires an extensive evaluation to prove viability and value at a particular institution prior to its development. Furthermore, the athletics program cannot thrive on its own and must have a collaborative relationship with the campus and the surrounding community. Lastly, the literature showed that institutional leadership plays a vital role in all areas of an athletics program. The literature shows the above are the key components in the development and sustainability of an athletics program. Statement of the Problem The purpose of this study was to explore the development and sustainability of an athletics program at a new institution. Based on the literature review, the study focused on these four areas: the benefits of an athletics program, the processes of development and funding, campus and community collaboration, and the role of institutional leadership. Methodology This researcher chose to focus on one institution that recently developed an athletics program for collecting qualitative data. The qualitative data were collected in the form of interviews of institutional leaders. The questions used in these interviews were based on the information collected in the literature review. The researcher could then compare what was expected and what actually happened at this institution. Conclusions and Recommendations In conclusion, this study identified several key elements necessary to develop and sustain an athletics program at a new university. The study showed that a good athletics program should demonstrate and provide strong leadership. It should also offer complete focus on student development by providing services needed to succeed at a new institution. In addition, the athletics program should develop a profile in the region. Furthermore, the study showed there are definite benefits of campus and community collaboration with the athletics program.