Column
from the editor
Saints Score with Football
in More Ways than One
“So, when is Siena Heights starting football?”
If had a dollar for each time I have been asked
that question since my time at Siena Heights, we
would already have our outdoor performance
stadium built.
Seriously, though, in the spirit of full disclosure,
it was a question I’ve even asked myself from
time to time, but knew there were some very
legitimate reasons why the answer had to be
“not now.”
Obviously, that question has recently been answered, and the many reasons for that answer are
detailed in this issue of Reflections. If you haven’t
heard the news, football is indeed coming to
Siena Heights University.
As a member of the Football Task Force organized to look at all the factors in beginning a
college football program, I had the privilege of
having a front row seat in the discussion. I knew
going into the process that it would be more
than just a “numbers game.” Besides the boost
in enrollment, there were so many other things
to consider, from how it would impact student
life to the changes that needed to be made on
the academic side to how it would affect Homecoming. It was truly an educational experience
on many levels.
Ultimately, however, the decision came down
to what it always does at Siena Heights University: the mission. Did football fit the mission?
Sister Peg challenged us to first answer that
question, and if the answer was yes (and, in the
Task Force’s opinion, it was), then the decision
process could move forward.
4
Reflections Summer ’10
Although the support from the Siena community was significant, make no mistake, this was
not a “done deal.” I give Sister Peg, our administration and our Board of Trustees tremendous
credit for even considering this venture. Given
our area’s current economic climate and the
trend for higher education to scale back rather
than spread its wings, this was indeed the kind
of “bold” move Sister Peg promised when she
arrived as President in 2006.
Football, if you haven’t noticed, is a bit different
from other college athletic programs in its scope
and influence. That can be both good and bad,
depending on how an institution manages it.
And from early indications, it will be a very good
thing for Siena Heights.
For starters, new head football coach Jim Lyall
is absolutely perfect for the job. As in most any
new venture, having the right person in place
makes all the difference. Spend a minute talking
with him and you’ll know what I mean.
Besides all the new students and opportunities
football will bring, it will also add a new level of
excitement to campus. It already has. In fact, the
Lenawee community may be just as excited as
we are at Siena. I know I can’t wait for the first
football tailgate party. And the first “Touchdown, Saints!” exclamation from the public
address announcer.
To quote the famous philosopher Hank
Williams Jr., “Are you ready for some football?”
Next fall can’t come fast enough.
Doug Goodnough
Editor