Thursday, April 29, 2010
The Budget Review meeting that I attended this afternoon turned out to be very constructive full of critical questions, answers and comments. Today's economy has affected US Figure Skating adversely not unlike individuals and many other non-profit athletic organizations in the US. US Figure Skating Board of Directors in general and the finance people in particular are facing a challenging financial situation, especially in view of this year's deficit. A trend that began with the loss of TV revenue a couple of years ago is now accentuated by a poor economy that has affected the revenue. Budget has been adjusted accordingly,yet US Figure Skating is fully committed to investing in members and programs at the high end with Athlete Development, the low end with Basic Skills, while recognizing that the heart of the Association is what is in the middle from young competing athlete's, Adult Athletes, and young and old recreational skaters. It is a difficult balance to maintain, but the Board is committed to navigate through this difficult time without jeopardizing its mission. Such was the message that I received after hearing many tough questions, critical thoughts that were shared, and fair responses that were given. What impressed me the most was that none of the responsible people did attempt to dodge a question or dance around the answer. Everything was above board and straight forward. The meeting lasted 40 minutes beyond its budgeted time and no one left early, because what was being discussed compelled everyone to stay and participate. I encourage everyone to review the budget when it comes out in the Report of Action (will be posted on the website) sometime next week. We all need to know what US Figure Skating is doing, and feel free to send them our ideas and constructive criticisms.
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Hi Kia, I have strong feelings about the associations handling of the financial issues since the loss of network coverage of our Association event. I think a more forward-looking approach needed to be pursued. I don’t feel the economy is the problem, I feel the blame falls on some poor choices by people in charge looking back at history for guidance rather than analysis of current trends and taking appropriate action. I was very encouraged this year with the National and Olympic coverage and disappointed that it didn’t happen for the Worlds… I think a more concerted outreach program for National and international corporate support needs to be pursued… Exclusivity does not work any more, while Ice Skating is recognized as a sport with several sub groups, old school fun and recreation is a common goal for all the supporters and users of the rinks and ponds throughout the US and beyond. The most encouraging events this year changes for the better was the inclusion of our past Champions contributing their time and energy to the US Olympic effort… The large corporations are looking for places to show off their logos and increase product awareness… I feel a concerted effort needs to be made at both the local and national level to create associations for mutual benefit in promoting our sport… We already have a place but I feel the advertising space is far under utilized on our websites and wall space at our rinks… I am fortunate to skate at rinks were this is not the case but more needs to be happening to this end within our Association… Thanks for giving me a spot to vent a little and Thanks for sharing. Don
ReplyDeleteJust a quick point of clarification, coverage of Worlds is not under US Figure Skating control and within their TV rights. ISU through its TV contracts decides how those events are covered. I understand even Skate America will fall into that category this season. As for adjusting to times, I direct your attention to a couple of reports on this blog (i.e., the documentary "RISE" and the new program "Skating In Schools") as proof that the association is doing what it takes to adjust to the times. A few years ago the revenue from ABC's contract was a huge part of the revenue pie, and membership fees was just a tiny sliver. Now if you look at the pie chart for 2010-2011 revenue projection, you will notice that membership fees section is by far the largest and most dominant portion. Many sports, some of them mainstream, seem to have suffered from the same fate where lower TV ratings has eaten into their annual revenue. US Figure Skating would love nothing more than hearing from you and the rest of the members about revenue generating ideas that prove practical and promising. Do send them your constructive criticism and ideas to David Raith at the HQ.
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